Ground source heat pumps: Planning conditions for permitted development

If you're considering installing a ground source heat pump at a non-domestic building and want it to be classified as 'permitted development' (meaning you won't need a full planning application), you must meet specific requirements. Here are the conditions you need to follow:

• Should the heat pump no longer be required for generating your own electricity or heat (known as microgeneration), you must take it out as soon as practically possible. Once removed, you need to restore the land to the condition it was in before the installation took place, to the best of your ability. Alternatively, you can restore it to a state that you have formally agreed upon in writing with your local planning authority.

• The total area of ground you excavate for the heat pump system must not exceed 0.5 hectares.

• Within your building's boundaries (also known as the curtilage), you are permitted to install only one ground source heat pump. If you intend to put in more than one unit, you will be required to submit a separate application for planning permission.

For additional details, you can visit this page: Closed loop ground source heating and cooling systems: when you need a permit.