If you’re planning a commercial solar installation, one of the first things you’ll need to find out is whether you need planning permission. The good news is that most commercial solar systems fall under permitted development rights, meaning you won’t need to go through the lengthy planning application process. However, there are specific criteria that determine this, and understanding the rules can save you time, money, and potential headaches down the line.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about commercial solar panel planning permission, when it’s required, and how to navigate the process if you do need approval.
Do Solar Panels Need Planning Permission in the UK?
The short answer is: it depends.
Most commercial solar installations don’t require planning permission because they qualify as permitted development under UK planning regulations.
However, your installation must meet specific criteria to benefit from these rights.
The key factors that determine whether you need planning permission include the size of your system, the type of building, your location, and how the panels will be mounted. Understanding these criteria upfront can help you plan your installation more effectively and avoid any regulatory surprises.
What Counts as Permitted Development?
For your commercial solar installation to qualify as permitted development, it must meet several conditions. These rules are designed to allow renewable energy projects, while protecting the visual character of areas and neighbouring properties.
For roof-mounted systems
All of the following conditions must be met for roof-mounted systems to qualify as permitted development:
- Equipment must be positioned to minimise impact on the building’s external appearance and local amenity
- Solar panels on walls or pitched roofs must project no more than 200mm from the surface
- On flat roofs, the highest part of the system must not exceed one metre above the roof’s highest point (excluding chimneys)
- Equipment must be at least one metre from any roof edge
- Wall-mounted equipment must be at least one metre from wall junctions or roof connections
- Panels must be removed when no longer needed and the building restored to its previous condition
- Installation is not permitted on listed buildings, buildings within listed building grounds, or scheduled monument sites
Large solar installations
Installations beyond basic microgeneration equipment require Prior Approval from the Local Planning Authority. This 56-day process assesses design, external appearance, and potential glare impact on neighbouring properties.
Ground-mounted systems
Systems on the ground have separate criteria and are generally more restricted for commercial properties, often requiring full planning permission due to their visual and land-use impact.
When Is Planning Permission Required?
Several circumstances trigger the need for full planning permission, even if your system might otherwise qualify as permitted development.
Conservation areas and listed buildings: These have special protections. If your property is in a conservation area or is a listed building, you’ll likely need planning permission or listed building consent. These designations tend to prioritise heritage and visual character over development rights.
Large-scale installations: Those exceeding 1MW capacity require planning permission due to their significant infrastructure impact. This is because larger systems can affect grid infrastructure, traffic, and local amenities in ways that smaller installations don’t.
Ground-mounted systems: Systems that exceed size limits or are too close to boundaries will need permission. The same applies to roof-mounted systems that significantly alter a building’s appearance or extend well beyond the roof line.
Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB): These areas, and National Parks, have additional restrictions. These protected landscapes often require planning permission for solar installations to preserve their special character.
Additional Factors You Should Consider
Beyond basic planning permission requirements, several other factors can affect your installation and should be considered early in your planning process.
Visual impact
Visual impact is crucial, especially for prominent buildings or sensitive locations. Even if planning permission isn’t required, considering how your installation will look from public areas can prevent complaints and potential enforcement action.
Structural considerations
Your roof must be capable of supporting the additional weight (typically around 10kg per square metre), and you may need structural assessments to confirm suitability. Most commercial roofs handle this easily, but older buildings or unusual construction may require professional evaluation.
Grid connection requirements
Installations require approval from your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) under G98 or G99 regulations, depending on system size. This ensures your system won’t adversely affect local electricity networks.
How to Check with Your Local Authority
If you’re uncertain about planning requirements, consulting your local planning authority is the safest approach. This process doesn’t have to be complicated, and taking these steps can save significant time and cost later.
- Contact the planning department directly with details about your proposed installation, including system size, mounting method, and building location. Most authorities are helpful and can provide guidance on whether permission is needed.
- Submit a development certificate application if you want formal confirmation that your installation is permitted development. While this isn’t mandatory, it provides legal certainty and can be valuable for insurance and financing purposes.
- Consider a pre-application consultation for complex cases. This paid service gives you formal advice on planning requirements and can identify potential issues before you commit to your installation design.
At MD Govier we can support you through this process, helping prepare documentation and liaising with authorities on your behalf.
Typical Installation Process (With or Without Permission)
For permitted development installations, the process is straightforward. After system design and quotation, installation can typically begin within weeks, subject to equipment availability and weather conditions. The only regulatory step is usually grid connection approval.
When planning permission is required, add 8-16 weeks to your timeline for the planning application process. You’ll need to prepare detailed drawings, impact assessments, and supporting documentation. Once permission is granted, installation proceeds as above.
The physical installation process remains the same regardless of planning requirements. Professional teams erect scaffolding, install mounting systems, position panels, complete electrical connections, and conduct comprehensive testing before handover.
Do You Need Grid Permission Too?
It’s important to understand that planning permission and grid connection approval are separate requirements, both of which may apply to your installation.
G98 approval: Applies to installations up to 3.68kW per phase and is usually a straightforward notification process. Most commercial installations exceed this threshold and require G99 approval instead.
G99 approval: covers larger installations and involves more detailed technical assessment. Your installer will handle this process, but approval can take several weeks and may require system modifications or grid reinforcement.
These approvals ensure your installation won’t affect local electricity networks and are mandatory regardless of planning requirements. For guidance, feel free to get in touch.
Need Help Navigating the Rules?
Planning regulations can seem complex, but professional guidance makes the process manageable. At MD Govier we support businesses through every stage of your solar journey, from initial feasibility through to final commissioning.
Whether your installation requires planning permission or qualifies as permitted development, we provide end-to-end project support that minimises disruption to your operations and ensures compliance from day one. Ready to explore commercial solar for your business? Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote.