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Do I need permission for solar panels?
There are usually four different permissions to think about: planning, the network operator, your landlord or freeholder, and building or electrical safety rules. They are separate, so getting one does not cover the others.
Rules are changing quickly. This page reflects what we could confirm on 21 September 2026. Check GOV.UK, your network operator and a qualified installer before you buy or connect anything. General information, not legal or electrical advice.
1. Planning
Planning is devolved: England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland each have their own rules. Many domestic rooftop installations are permitted development, but conditions apply and stricter rules often apply to listed buildings, conservation areas and flats. In England the permitted development right updated on 27 August 2026 covers plug-in solar, but not where it would be fixed to a wooden wall, balcony or enclosure. Wales and Scotland have their own rules. Ask your local planning authority if you are unsure.
2. The network operator
Connecting generation to the grid usually means notifying your distribution network operator. In Great Britain, small systems use the G98 process, and larger systems may need G99 approval. Plug-in kits must be registered on the UK Plug-In Solar Registration website, and the network operator must be notified, generally within 28 days of connecting.
3. Landlord, freeholder or title conditions
Tenants and leaseholders usually need written consent for fixings to external walls, roofs and balconies. See renting and solar.
4. Safety and building rules
Use products that meet the relevant standards, a qualified electrician for hardwired work and safe, weather-proof mounting. In Great Britain, plug-in kits must be on the ENA register of compliant devices. See plug-in solar explained.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need planning permission for rooftop solar panels?
Often not, because many domestic installations are permitted development, but conditions apply and stricter rules affect listed buildings, conservation areas and flats. Rules differ across the UK nations.
Do I need to tell my electricity network operator?
Usually yes. In Great Britain, small systems use the G98 notification, larger systems may need G99 approval, and plug-in kits must be notified.
Do renters need permission?
Usually yes for anything fixed to external walls, roofs or balconies. Ask your landlord or freeholder in writing.
Is one permission enough?
No. Planning, network operator, landlord consent and safety rules are separate.
Related questions
- Do I need planning permission for solar panels in England?
- What are the England permitted development limits for a house?
- Do the England rules differ for flats?
- Do I need listed building consent for solar panels?
- Will a council approve solar panels on a listed building?
- Do I need planning permission for solar panels in a conservation area in England?
Official sources
- Planning Portal (England): solar equipment mounted on a house, block of flats or building
- Planning Portal (England): stand-alone solar equipment in the grounds of a house or block of flats
- GOV.WALES: planning permission for solar panels
- ePlanning Scotland
- MCS: notifying distribution network operators (G98 and G99)
- Energy Saving Trust: Plug-in solar panels, checks to make before you buy
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Open Be Solar WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-21. General information, not legal, electrical or financial advice. Confirm current rules before you buy or connect anything.