Yes, you need planning permission in order to be able to install solar panels. That’s because this counts as a large-scale alteration or remodelling of your home. Fortunately, there is a permit exemption in the UK for installing solar panels on a sloping or flat roof. You must be able to meet the following conditions:
The solar panels are integrated into the roof
The solar panels are mounted several centimetres above the roof
For a flat roof: solar panels are installed no higher than 1 metre above the roof edge
For a pitched roof: the solar panels are at approximately the same pitch as the roof
For more information on the conditions necessary to be able to install solar panels, you can always contact Soly.