Before you start
You should check whether your proposal needs planning permission before installing an air source heat pump.
Check if you need planning permission
Installing an air source heat pump
In most cases, installing an air source heat pump at a house is permitted development.
Find out more about permitted development rights
This means you do not usually need to apply for planning permission if:
- the unit is located within your property
- it meets permitted development size and location limits
Many domestic air source heat pumps can be installed without planning permission if they meet permitted development rules.
When planning permission may be required
You may need planning permission if:
- the installation does not meet permitted development rules
- the property is a listed building
- the property is in a conservation area and restrictions apply
- the unit is located in a prominent position, such as the front of the property
- the installation would have an unacceptable impact on neighbours (for example noise or visual impact)
Whether planning permission is required depends on the specific circumstances of your property and the proposed installation.
Location and design considerations
When installing an air source heat pump, you should consider:
- where the unit will be positioned
- proximity to neighbouring properties
- potential noise impacts
- visual impact on the building and surrounding area
Noise considerations
You should ensure that the installation does not cause a nuisance to neighbouring properties.
It is recommended that your installer carries out a noise assessment before installation to confirm that noise levels are acceptable. This should take into account:
- existing background noise levels
- the characteristics of the noise
- noise levels at all operating modes (including defrost cycles)
- the distance between the unit and neighbouring properties
- any noise barriers or mitigation measures
Further guidance on reducing noise impacts is available in the
Heat pumps professional advice note from the Institute of Acoustics and Chartered Institute of Environmental Health.
Installation options
Air source heat pumps are typically installed on the ground adjacent to a building, or mounted on an external wall.
Flats and shared buildings
Permitted development rules for air source heat pumps are more restricted for flats and shared buildings.
Planning permission is more likely to be required.
Conservation areas and Article 4 Directions
If your property is in a conservation area or subject to an Article 4 Direction, additional controls may apply.
Article 4 Directions usually apply to external changes visible from the street or public areas, such as the front of a property.
In Westmorland and Furness, Article 4 Directions generally focus on external alterations such as windows, doors and materials. This may include externally mounted equipment.
Other restrictions may still apply depending on your property and the location of the installation.
Find out more about conservation areas and Article 4 Directions.
Listed buildings
If your property is listed, you will usually need listed building consent before installing an air source heat pump, even if planning permission is not required.
Other permissions you may need
You may also need:
- Building Regulations approval
- permission from your landlord or freeholder (if applicable)
- approval from your electricity network provider (if required)
Further guidance
Planning permission depends on your property and the proposed installation.
You can:
- check permitted development guidance
- apply for a Lawful Development Certificate for formal confirmation
Get advice before you apply
If you are unsure about your proposal, you can: