Want to go solar but you live in a conservation area? If you live in a conservation area, contrary to popular belief you are able to have a solar panel installation. Many homeowners across Essex, Kent and Hertfordshire want to reduce energy bills and their carbon footprint with solar panels, but aren’t sure how conservation rules affect their options.
At SolarTherm UK, we regularly help homeowners in conservation areas navigate local planning rules, ensuring every installation is efficient, compliant and beautifully integrated with your property.
Here’s what you need to know about installing solar panels in conservation areas and how we can help you get it right.
What is a Conservation Area?
A conservation area is a protected area designated by the local council to preserve its architectural or historical character. The areas usually include period properties, heritage villages and architecturally unique buildings found throughout Essex, Kent and Hertfordshire. While development and eco-friendly upgrades are encouraged, any work must respect the visual and historic integrity of the area and have minimal impact on the character of the property.
How to Check if You Live in a Conservation Area
To find out if your home is in a conservation area, contact your local planning authority. Councils in Essex, Hertfordshire and Kent all provide online maps and planning resources where you can check your property’s conservation status. If you are still unsure of your property’s conservation status or what permissions you need to have before starting your solar journey, SolarTherm UK can help guide you through this as part of your feasibility study.
What About Listed Buildings?
If your property is a listed building, you may face additional restrictions. Listed buildings generally require Listed Building Consent (LBC) before any solar installation. SolarTherm UK’s experienced team can help liaise with your local authority to explore viable options and discreet designs.
Can You Install Solar Panels in a Conservation Area?
In most cases it is possible to install solar panels in a conservation area under permitted development rights. Certain considerations and conditions need to be met but installation of solar panels in a conservation area is usually straightforward.
- Solar panels should not extend more than 20cm from the roof or wall surface
- Solar panels must not be higher than the main roof ridge
- The installation should be positioned to minimise its visual impact
- Solar panels cannot be visible from a public highway
- All equipment needs to be removed when no longer in use
When in doubt, SolarTherm UK can assess your property and help determine whether planning permission is needed before installation.
What Additional Rules Apply in Conservation Areas?
Homes within a World Heritage Site, Article 4 Direction Zone or that are listed incur stricter regulations. Some properties may require planning permission or listed building consent for even minor changes. At SolarTherm UK, we work directly with local planning requirements to ensure your solar system design meets both regulatory and aesthetic needs.
What is Article 4?
Article 4 Directions allow local councils to limit or remove certain permitted development rights in sensitive and protected areas. This means even small changes, like adding solar panels or a heat pump, will require planning permission.
Article 4 is especially common in historic parts of Hertford, Canterbury, Colchester and Bishop’s Stortford, where councils seek to maintain a consistent appearance to properties within the area.
Why Choose SolarTherm UK?
At SolarTherm UK we combine technical expertise with local knowledge. Whether you’re in a Chelmsford conservation area, a listed cottage in Hertford or a historic home in Canterbury, we design bespoke solar systems that respect heritage architecture while delivering powerful renewable energy performance.
Our MCS certified installers have over 15 years of experience working on solar installations across Essex, Kent, Hertfordshire and the wider South East, in conservation areas and on listed buildings.
Take the Next Step Towards a More Sustainable Future
With SolarTherm UK, you don’t have to compromise between sustainability and style. Our dedicated team will guide you through the process every step of the way. Contact SolarTherm UK for a free no obligation quote and design, tailored to your heritage property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
