Can I Use Solar Panels In a Conservation Area?

The UK government is highly supportive of its residents adopting solar energy, which is why regulations for installing solar panels tend to be fairly relaxed — even in conservation areas or near listed buildings. However, there are still certain limitations to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about installing solar panels in conservation areas while ensuring your project stays within legal boundaries.

Before we dive into the specifics, it's important to understand what makes a conservation area unique in the UK. A conservation area is defined as a location with significant architectural or historical value, safeguarding the overall appearance and atmosphere of a particular region. These areas were first established in 1967, and today there are approximately 10,000 such zones spread throughout the UK, ranging from small rural villages like Osmotherley to bustling urban hubs like London’s Alexandra Palace.

While conservation areas protect the collective charm of an entire district, it’s crucial to note that individual listed buildings within these areas have their own set of rules. Listed structures cannot be demolished, expanded, or modified without explicit approval from the local planning authority. This means that installing solar panels on listed buildings requires additional scrutiny and adherence to specific guidelines.

Understanding Permitted Development Rules

Generally speaking, solar panels fall under “Permitted Development,” meaning that in most cases, you won’t need to seek formal approval from the local planning authority (LPA) before proceeding. That said, there are still several key considerations to keep in mind:

• Panels cannot be placed on the highest part of the roof unless it's a chimney.
• They should not protrude more than 20 centimeters beyond the roofline.
• The installation shouldn’t compromise the architectural integrity or aesthetic appeal of the building.
• Unused solar panels must be removed promptly once they are no longer needed.

Solar Panels in Conservation Areas

When it comes to installing solar panels in conservation areas, additional regulations come into play:

• Panels cannot be mounted on buildings located within the grounds of a listed structure or on designated monuments.
• If your property resides in a conservation area or a World Heritage Site, solar panels cannot be attached to walls facing public roads.

If you’re planning to install solar panels in a conservation area, reach out to your local council to confirm whether your proposed changes align with the area’s aesthetic goals. They’ll help guide you through the necessary steps to ensure compliance.

Building Regulations to Keep in Mind

Your solar panel installation must adhere to certain building standards, including:

• The structural capacity of your existing roof to support the panels must be verified and documented.
• Electrical installations must also comply with relevant regulations.

If your property doesn’t meet these requirements, modifications may be necessary, such as reinforcing the roof or upgrading the electrical system.

Seeking Guidance If You're Unsure

If you’re uncertain about meeting any of the regulations, consult your LPA for pre-application advice or apply for a lawful development certificate (LDC) before beginning construction. If your project doesn’t comply with existing rules or if an ‘Article 4’ directive applies to your area, you’ll likely need to apply for formal planning permission.

‘Article 4’ directives are typically implemented when local authorities believe that certain installations, including solar panels, could threaten the character of a conservation area. Always check with your LPA to determine if your property falls under such a directive.

Using the Planning Portal

Should you decide to apply for planning permission, visit the Planning Portal. The website offers detailed guidance and tools to simplify the application process. You can create an account to monitor the status of your submissions and access interactive resources designed to streamline the experience.

Checking If Your Property Is Listed

To verify whether your property is listed, consult the National Heritage List for England (NHLE), which maintains records of all listed buildings in the country.

Can You Install Solar Panels in a Conservation Area?

As discussed earlier, installing solar panels in conservation areas is possible, provided you adhere to specific planning guidelines. If you have further questions or wish to explore your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Project Solar.