Planning Permission For Heat Pumps: An Updated Guide

Installing a heat pump can improve home energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. However, understanding planning permission requirements is essential before proceeding with an installation. This guide explains when and where air source and ground source heat pumps (ASHPs and GSHPs) qualify as permitted development across England, Wales, and Scotland.

Permitted Development Rights for Heat Pumps in the UK

For most properties, installing a heat pump is considered permitted development, meaning that planning permission is typically not required. However, specific rules apply depending on the type of heat pump (air source vs. ground source), your property location, and local regulations.

Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs)

England and Wales

In England and Wales, air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are generally allowed as permitted development, provided that specific conditions are met under the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) 2015.

Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Compliance with Standards
    • The ASHP must meet Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) Planning Standards (MCS 020) or equivalent.
  2. Volume and Placement Restrictions
    • The ASHP’s outdoor unit, including housing, must not exceed 0.6 cubic metres in volume.
    • Only the first ASHP installation on a property is considered permitted development; any additional ASHP or wind turbine will require planning permission.
    • The unit must be installed at least 1 metre from the property boundary, however if you live in Wales you must allow at least 3 metres from the property boundary.
    • ASHPs cannot be installed on pitched roofs. For flat roofs, the unit must be positioned at least one metre from the roof’s edge.
  3. Restrictions for Walls Facing a Highway
    • For properties outside conservation areas or World Heritage Sites, ASHPs can be installed on walls facing a highway if placed at ground level. Above ground-level installations on these walls will require planning permission.
    • In conservation areas or World Heritage Sites, ASHPs cannot be installed on any wall or roof that fronts a highway, regardless of height.
  4. Domestic Use Only
    • Permitted development rights apply only if the ASHP is used for heating and hot water purposes. Cooling functions are not permitted under permitted development.

Scotland

In Scotland, ASHPs are also considered permitted development if certain conditions are met under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Domestic Microgeneration) (Scotland) Order 2009:

  1. Volume and Placement Requirements
    • The ASHP must not protrude more than 1 metre from the external wall, roof plane, ridge, or chimney.
    • Only one ASHP per dwelling is allowed under permitted development.
    • Installations must be at least one metre from the property boundary.
  2. Restrictions in Designated Areas
    • In conservation areas, ASHPs must be installed at ground level on the rear elevation.
    • Installations within the curtilage of a listed building or in World Heritage Sites are not considered permitted development.
  3. Domestic Use Only
    • Like in England, ASHPs in Scotland must be used solely for heating and hot water. Units with cooling functions do not qualify under permitted development.

Our Advice on ASHPs: ASHP regulations can vary by council and location. If your property is near a highway or within a designated area, it’s best to consult your local planning office to confirm placement options.

Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs)

Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) extract heat from the ground, requiring significant space for underground loops or boreholes. Here’s what you need to know about permitted development rights for GSHPs across the UK:

England and Wales

  1. Permitted Development Status
    • For most properties, GSHPs are considered permitted development, meaning planning permission is not usually required. This status is based on guidance for microgeneration in residential properties under the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) 2015.
  2. Designated Areas and Sensitive Sites
    • If your property is in a conservation area, a National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), or on a scheduled monument, additional permissions may be required.
    • GSHPs in areas designated for ecological importance, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), or Ancient Woodlands, may also require council consultation due to potential environmental impact.
  3. Environmental Considerations
    • GSHPs require significant space for excavation, so proximity to property boundaries and environmental protection requirements can impact installation. The Ground Source Heat Pump Association (GSHPA) offers technical and environmental guidelines.

Scotland

  1. Permitted Development Status
  2. Designated Areas and Sensitive Sites
    • Properties in conservation areas, National Scenic Areas, and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) may face additional requirements. Check with your local planning authority to confirm.
    • In Scotland, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) provides specific guidance for GSHP installations, especially near sensitive habitats.

Our Advice on GSHPs: While GSHPs often don’t need planning permission, installations in designated areas or close to boundaries may require council approval. Confirm with your council and consult a certified installer for environmental compliance.

Conditions to Remember for Both ASHPs and GSHPs

  • One Unit Per Property: Only one ASHP or GSHP is permitted under permitted development rights per dwelling.
  • Domestic Use Only: Permitted development rights apply only if the unit is used for domestic heating and hot water. Units with cooling functions are not covered.
  • Minimising Visual Impact: Installations should be positioned to minimise visual impact, particularly in conservation or designated areas.

Get in Touch for a Quote or More Guidance

At IMS Heat Pumps, we’re here to help you navigate these requirements and ensure a smooth installation process. If you’re ready to explore your options for a heat pump or need advice on planning permissions, contact us for a free quote today! Our team of experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you towards the best solution for your home.

Disclaimer
This guide is based on current planning legislation and guidance, including information from legislation.gov.uk, the Planning Portal, Historic England, and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). Planning requirements and council interpretations may vary, so always consult your local council, especially if your property is in a designated area or near a boundary. With the right guidance, installing a heat pump can be a fantastic step towards a more sustainable home—just make sure you’re informed on planning permissions and local council advice!