What are the permitted development rights for solar panels on commercial buildings?
Commercial buildings in the UK can install solar under permitted development rights for solar panels without planning permission, provided the installation meets the conditions set out in the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015.
In practical terms, this allows many commercial solar panels to be installed on rooftops or external walls of offices, warehouses, factories, and other commercial properties without submitting a full planning application. A standard Commercial Solar Installation can proceed under permitted development when it complies with rules on height, positioning, and visual impact.
These permitted development rights exist to encourage renewable energy use while protecting neighbouring properties and local character. They generally apply where solar panels:
Do not project excessively above the roof surface
Are positioned to minimise visual impact were reasonably possible
Do not affect the building’s structural safety
Are removed when they are no longer required
There are important limitations. Commercial buildings in conservation areas, listed buildings, or sites with specific planning restrictions may still need full planning permission, even for smaller solar systems.
Confirming whether a proposed Commercial Solar Installation qualifies under permitted development should always be done before work begins, as non-compliant installations can lead to enforcement action or expensive changes later.
Do you need planning permission for commercial solar panels?
In most cases, planning permission is not required for commercial solar panels in the UK, as they are covered by permitted development rights.
For many businesses, this means a commercial solar panels installation can go ahead without a full planning application. As long as the system meets permitted development conditions relating to height, placement, and appearance, planning approval is usually not needed.
Planning permission is typically required only where panels are installed on listed buildings, within conservation areas, or where the installation would cause a significant visual impact.
Can you put solar panels on a commercial property?
Yes, solar panels can be installed on most commercial properties in the UK, including offices, warehouses, factories, and retail buildings.
Commercial buildings are particularly well suited for solar due to their roof size and consistent daytime energy use. A properly designed commercial solar panels installation can usually be added without changing the building’s use or breaching planning rules, provided the panels are securely mounted and sensibly positioned.
Do permitted development rights apply to commercial buildings?
Yes, permitted development rights apply to commercial buildings, including the installation of commercial solar panels.
These rights are intended to make renewable energy systems easier to add to existing buildings. When the permitted development conditions are met, commercial solar panels can be installed without planning permission, helping businesses avoid unnecessary delays and administrative costs.
That said, permitted development rights do not apply in every situation. Buildings with heritage status or specific planning controls may still require formal approval.
What are permitted development rights for commercial solar panels?
Permitted development rights allow commercial solar panels to be installed without planning permission when specific conditions are met.
For commercial solar panels, these conditions usually include:
Panels installed on rooftops or external walls
Limited projection above the roof surface
Design choices that reduce visual impact
Removal of the system when it is no longer needed
A compliant commercial solar panels installation benefits from a simpler approval process while remaining fully within UK planning regulations.
For businesses considering commercial solar, checking planning status early can prevent delays and ensure the installation stays compliant from day one. A well-planned approach not only avoids regulatory issues but also helps maximise long-term energy and cost benefits.
Thinking about commercial solar for your building?
If you’re considering commercial solar panels and want clarity on whether your project falls under permitted development rights, getting the right advice early can save time and avoid unnecessary planning issues. Every building is different, and small details around placement, height, or location can affect compliance.
At Excel Energy, we help UK businesses plan and deliver commercial solar installations that align with current planning rules while maximising long-term energy savings. Speaking to a specialist before installation can make the process smoother, more predictable, and fully compliant from the outset.