October 22, 2025

If you’re one of the many homeowners across Ireland thinking about installing solar panels on your roof, one of the questions you might have is: “Do I need planning permission?”

It’s an important question, and one that many don’t consider.

The good news is that in most cases, you don’t need to seek planning permission. However, there are a few exceptions and conditions you should be aware of before installing solar at your home.

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about planning permission for installing solar panels on homes in Ireland, so you can make an informed decision about your solar journey.

1. Planning Permission vs. Exempted Development

When we talk about planning permission, we mean formal approval from your local council before you carry out certain types of building work. Traditionally, many home improvements such as extensions, major structural changes or significant external alterations required this.

However, not all work needs planning permission. Some types of development are classed as “exempted development”, meaning you can go ahead without applying, provided that you follow specific conditions.

Solar PV system installations are one of those areas where exemptions apply. In 2022, major changes were introduced that have made the rules much more homeowner-friendly than ever before.

2. The 2022 Rule Change

In October 2022, the Irish Government updated planning regulations to encourage more homeowners to install solar. The most significant change was the removal of a size limit for rooftop solar on houses, which was 12m² or 50% of the roof area.

This means there’s no longer a cap on rooftop solar panels for homes. You can cover as much of your roof as you like, subject to basic conditions.

Solar Safeguarding Zones (SSZs) were also introduced. These are specific areas near airports where some restrictions still apply to prevent glare affecting aviation. These mostly affect non-residential buildings, not houses.

This was a big step forward in Ireland’s climate goals, and it means that for most homeowners, planning permission is no longer a barrier to going solar.

3. When You Don’t Need Planning Permission

For the majority of Irish homeowners, solar panel installation will fall under exempted development. Here’s when that applies:

Rooftop Solar on Your Home

You don’t need planning permission if:

• Panels are installed on your roof and don’t project more than 15 cm from the roof’s surface.
• They are set back at least 50 cm from the edge of the roof.
• Your home is not a protected structure or located in an architectural conservation area.

Because the previous area restrictions have been removed, most typical rooftop solar projects now fall comfortably within exempted development rules.

Ground-Mounted Solar in Your Garden

You can also install solar panels in your garden without planning permission if:

• The array is behind the front wall of your house.
• It’s no more than 25 m² in total area.
• It doesn’t exceed 2.5 m in height.
• At least 25 m² of private garden space remains after installation.

This is a great option if your roof isn’t suitable for panels due to shading, orientation, or structural reasons.

4. When You Might Need Planning Permission

While the majority of projects are exempt, there are a few cases where planning permission may still be required:

• Protected structures or conservation areas – If your home is a listed building or within an Architectural Conservation Area (ACA). Any changes to the exterior, including solar panels, may need approval.
• Solar Safeguarding Zones (SSZs) – Mostly relevant for non-residential properties. If you’re in an SSZ and want to install an array larger than 300m², you’ll need to seek planning permission.
• Large ground-mounted systems – Exceeding the size or height limits could trigger the need for planning.
• Visual or glare concerns – If panels could affect neighbouring properties, road safety, or protected views, planning may be required.
• Major modifications to an existing system – Expanding or altering older systems beyond exemption limits might also need approval.

5. Quick Planning Permission Checklist for Homeowners

Before installing solar, follow this simple checklist:

• Check if your property is a protected structure or located in a conservation area.
• See if your home is in a Solar Safeguarding Zone using tools like myplan.ie
• Review installation conditions such as panel projection, setback, ground-mount size, and height.
• Contact your local planning office if you’re unsure, they can clarify specific requirements.
• Work with a qualified installer who understands planning regulations and building control.

6. Other Regulations Still Apply

Even if planning permission isn’t required, other legal requirements do still apply:

• All work must comply with Irish Building Regulations.
• Your installer must be a Safe Electric–registered contractor.
• Panels must be installed to meet structural and electrical safety standards.

Following these ensures your installation is safe, legal, and fully covered by insurance and warranty.

7. The Risks of Ignoring Planning Rules

Skipping the planning step (when it’s required) can lead to serious issues:

• Your council could order you to remove or alter the installation.
• It may become harder to sell your property later.
• Insurance claims or warranties could be invalidated.

A little due diligence up front saves a lot of headaches down the road.

8. Final Thoughts

For most Irish homeowners, installing solar PV panels is now planning-permission free. As long as your project meets the conditions, you can proceed with confidence, and start generating clean, renewable energy for your home.

Where exceptions apply, the process is still manageable. A quick conversation with a trusted solar installer will ensure you’re on the right side of the law.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

<>If you’re thinking of installing solar PV panels, we can help make the process stress-free. Complete the form below to get a free home solar quote and appointment.

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