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Do You Need Planning Permission for a Skylight?

Do You Need Planning Permission for a Skylight?

A question we get asked frequently at Rooflights and Skylights UK is whether homeowners require planning permission from the local planning authority to have a skylight installed. Planning permission for skylights is a bit of a grey area because some skylight installations require planning permission but usually, planning permission is not needed.

There are a number of factors that determine whether planning permission must be obtained for a skylight installation, including how far the skylight projects from the existing roof pane. In this guide, we explain the regulations involving skylight installation and the scenarios where you will require planning permission. 

If you are found to have installed a skylight without obtaining the necessary planning permission, you could be ordered to remove the skylight or you could receive a fine, so it is important to understand your legal requirements. 

We’re also here to help if you need any advice or guidance regarding planning permission.

When you don’t typically need planning permission

As a general rule, rooflights do not require planning permission, as they usually come under the criteria for ‘permitted development rights’. The projects that are considered as permitted developments are usually ones that have no impact on neighbours. 

As long as the project meets the following conditions, skylight planning permission will not usually be required:

  • The skylight must not protrude more than 150mm higher than the existing roof plane.

  • The skylight cannot exceed the highest point of the roof.

  • The property you are installing the rooflight into is not in a conservation area and it is not a listed building.

Flat skylights that are fitted directly into the existing roof will usually meet the criteria for permitted developments. It is important that there is a minimum pitch of 3 degrees to allow water to effectively drain off the surface. 

For pitched roofs, as long as the rooflight does not protrude more than 150mm above the existing roof pane and does not exceed the highest point of the roof, planning permission shouldn’t be required.

When you do need planning permission for skylights

If your skylight does not meet the conditions listed above, then you will require planning permission from the local planning authority. For example, roof lantern skylights that are higher than 150mm or that exceed the highest point of the roof are likely to need planning permission.

Properties that are listed buildings or are situated in a conservation area will more than likely require planning permission for a skylight installation, as there are rules in place to ensure any developments preserve the character of the building or area.

Development projects that include significant alterations to rooflines will also require planning permission, so if you are in any doubt, it is always best to check to make sure you are not breaching building regulations. 

Side-facing windows must have obscured glazing to protect privacy and there are also regulations on required U-values to meet energy efficiency standards, which are included in the Approved Document L. Another element of the building regulations to be aware of is that the total area of the skylights should not exceed 25% of the floor area.

How to check/apply for planning permission

A tradesperson registered under a competent person scheme will be able to self-certify that the skylight project adheres to the building regulations standards. If you follow this process, you will not need to submit a planning permission application.

You can also check on the Government’s Planning Portal to see whether your skylight project will require planning permission. The portal covers all types of building projects and you can submit your application for planning permission through the portal.

Another option is to contact your local planning authority directly and apply for planning permission through their website. 

To submit your planning permission application, you will need to pay an application fee and provide plans for the work that is going to be carried out, including the elevations and roof plan. Once you submit your application, it will typically take 3-8 weeks for the application to be approved or rejected.

Get in touch 

Adding a skylight to your property can modernise your home and create a spacious appearance by bringing more natural light into your home. Given that rooflight installations do not generally require planning permission, this type of home improvement is more straightforward and more cost effective than an extension, for example.

If you would like any advice regarding whether you might need planning permission or would like to get a quote, contact our expert team at Rooflights and Skylights UK or take a look at our gallery of high-quality, Made in Britain rooflights and roof lanterns.

 

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