Planning Rules for Stand-Alone Solar Panels in Non-Domestic Grounds

Are you planning to install stand-alone solar panels on the grounds of a non-domestic building? To avoid needing full planning permission – a status known as 'permitted development' – you must ensure your project adheres to every requirement and restriction listed here.

General Requirements for Your Installation

• You need to place the equipment in a way that minimises its visual impact on the surrounding neighbourhood as much as possible.

• Once the solar equipment is no longer functional or required, you must remove it promptly.

• Only your very first stand-alone solar panel installation qualifies for permitted development. If you plan any additional installations in the future, you will have to obtain separate planning permission from your local council.

Location and Size Restrictions

• The entire installation, at its highest point, cannot be taller than 4 metres.

• You must position the installation at least 5 metres away from the edge of your property.

• The solar panel array itself must not cover an area larger than 9 square metres. This means its dimensions should be no more than 3 metres wide by 3 metres deep.

• You are absolutely not allowed to install panels within the protected boundary of a listed building or a scheduled monument.

Special Rules for Protected Areas (Article 2(3) Land)

Special rules apply if your property is located in specific protected areas, referred to as Article 2(3) land. These include:

• National Parks and the Broads

• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs)

• Conservation areas

• World Heritage Sites

If your property is in one of these designated areas and you intend to place your solar equipment closer to a public road than the main building (house or flats) itself, you face additional requirements:

• You must first seek 'prior approval' from your local planning authority. This means they need to agree to certain details of your installation before you proceed.

• Even with prior approval, the installation must not exceed 2 metres in height at any point.

Important Consideration for Leaseholders

As a leaseholder, remember that you might also need to get permission from your landlord, freeholder, or the property's management company before proceeding with any installation.