28/07/2022
We get asked at least 10 times a month, 'do I need planning permission for roof lights?' Unfortunately, there isn't a simple answer to this because it depends on many factors. But no need to stress; we will walk you through everything you need to know.
If you don't get planning permission to install certain rooflights, not only could you receive hefty fines, but you could lose your roof window!
When looking to improve your home, we know how overwhelming it can be when considering regulations and planning permissions. However, with roof lights becoming a popular choice for homeowners, it is essential to know the ins and outs of planning permissions.
It is easy to see why this is a concern for so many, so we will break down all the regulations in this blog.
In our opinion, a roof light is one of the best ways to improve a home. They are great at bringing in light and creating space in a room. We think they are better than a standard window as they add a stylish, often unique feature to a home.
Roof lights also open up a room and make it appear bigger by utilising the space above. We also think they are an excellent feature in the home as they look sleek and modern.
That being said, because they are windows, they make the outside house look different. This is where the question 'do I need planning permission for roof lights' comes in. We understand this is a grey area that can seem confusing, so we are here to help.
Roolight Solutions is one of the leaders in providing bespoke roof windows and rooflights across all types of roofs, including flat roofs! We know what goes into rooflight planning permissions, as you'll see below.
So, "Do I need planning permission for Roof Lights?: Under most circumstances in England and Wales, you don't need to apply for planning permission. Rules in Scotland are a bit stricter. Dependent on what roof light you want will determine whether you need permission or not.
The Government's Planning Portal sets out the limits and conditions under Schedule 2, Article 3 and part 1, class C permitted development.
Under the Government planning portal, it states the requirements in England and Wales as follows:
If you follow all the requirements above, you will not need to request planning permission for roof lights.
The only time you need planning permission is if there is an Article 4 on your property. Article 4 basically removes your ability to develop on the property. This is common in conservation areas and listed buildings. So if you want a roof light under Article 4, you need planning permission.
The planning portal by the UK Government allows you to check the regulations and requirements for planning permission. It lists all you need to know about adding a skylight, removing a roof light, extensions etc.
It allows you to check if your project complies with the regulations and lets you know what you need to amend if it doesn't match. We recommend this being the first place that you check when looking to install a roof light.
For example, let's say you want to purchase one of our ridge light rooflights and need planning permission; the planning portal is where you'd go.
We have answered whether you need planning permission for roof lights, but what about building regulations?
Building regulations will most likely be needed when installing a new roof light. Here's Why:
When altering the structure of your roof, you need to be careful about the safety and practicality of the project. In the Building regulations, parts J and L state:
We know this might all seem a bit confusing, but it is just to ensure the structure and efficiency of your home don't alter due to the roof light. At the end of the day, a roof light is an aesthetic improvement, so we want to ensure it is done safely.
If you want to go into more detail here beyond looking at "do I need planning permission for roof lights", check out our blog on U-values.
Roof lights are a great addition to any home, office, restaurant or commercial building. Take it from us, one of the leading rooflight suppliers that is working on projects all over the globe. So it is no surprise that we get asked daily, 'Do I Need Planning Permission for Roof Lights?'
Most of the time, no, but building regulations are just as important. We recommend consulting your local planning authority or accessing the government planning portal to confirm your project plans.
Get in touch with us today to ask any additional questions or learn more about roof lights and what will work best for your home.
It depends on the roof alteration. If you are repairing your roof, then no planning permission is required. However, we recommend contacting your local planning authority if it is a bit more complex, like installing a roof light.
Skylights are the same as roof lights; therefore, you do not need planning permission. However, under some circumstances, such as Article 4, it might be necessary.
With a roof terrace, you need planning permission as it does not come under your given development rights. Therefore, you will need to go through a complete planning process application.
This is because it affects your neighbours if you are in a built-up area, the stability of your property to withstand the terrace and if you overlook public places. We recommend contacting your local planning authority.
