AOS Blog
Planning Permission for Heat Pumps in Cambridgeshire: What You Need to Know
With energy efficiency and sustainability at the forefront of homeowners’ minds, heat pumps are becoming an increasingly popular choice for heating and cooling homes across the Cambridgeshire and the UK. They offer lower running costs, reduced carbon emissions, and impressive efficiency compared to traditional gas or oil boilers. However, one of the most common concerns before installation is whether planning permission is required.
In this blog, we’ll explore the planning regulations for heat pumps in Cambridgeshire, helping you determine whether you need approval before installing one in your home.
Are Heat Pumps Permitted Development in Cambridgeshire?
In most cases, heat pumps fall under Permitted Development Rights (PDR) in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This means you don’t need to apply for planning permission in Cambridgeshire, provided the installation meets specific criteria.
Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP)
Air source heat pumps are the most common type of heat pump, extracting heat from the air to warm your home. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and government regulations state that ASHP installations are considered permitted development if they adhere to the following conditions:
• The unit must be installed on a detached or semi-detached house (not a flat or maisonette).
• It must not be located within 1 metre of a property boundary.
• The heat pump should not be installed on a pitched roof or above the highest part of the roof (excluding the chimney).
• The external unit must not exceed 0.6m³ in volume.
• It should not be installed in a way that would negatively impact neighbours (noise levels must be within permitted limits).
• If the home is in a designated area (e.g. a conservation area, National Park, or listed building), additional restrictions may apply.
When Do You Need Planning Permission for a Heat Pump?
Although many heat pump installations are permitted development, you will need planning permission if:
• Your home is a listed building or located in a conservation area, World Heritage Site, or National Park.
• You want to install more than one heat pump on the property.
• The installation does not meet the size or placement requirements under permitted development.
• The system could cause noise pollution that exceeds government guidelines.
If you’re unsure whether your heat pump installation requires planning permission, it’s best to consult your local authority or an experienced heat pump installer like AOS Energy Efficient Heating Systems.
Planning Permission in Scotland & Wales
Planning laws vary slightly across the UK:
• Scotland: The installation must be at least 100m from the nearest neighbour to be classed as permitted development. Any closer, and you’ll need planning permission.
• Wales: The regulations are similar to England, but additional permissions may be needed in areas of outstanding natural beauty.
How to Apply for Planning Permission
If your installation requires planning permission, you’ll need to submit an application to your local planning authority (LPA). This involves:
1. Site plans showing the proposed installation location.
2. Technical details of the heat pump system.
3. Noise impact assessments, if required.
The process can take 8-12 weeks, so it’s best to check the requirements early in your planning.
Conclusion
For most homeowners, installing a heat pump in Cambridgeshire does not require planning permission as long as it meets permitted development rules. However, if you live in a listed building, conservation area, or are installing multiple units, you may need to seek approval from your local council.
To ensure your heat pump installation complies with all regulations, it’s essential to work with a qualified and experienced installer. At AOS Energy Efficient Heating Systems, we provide expert advice and professional installation services tailored to your home’s requirements. Contact us today to find out how we can help you transition to energy-efficient heating!
