Do I need permission for a ground-mounted solar array?

The exemption for free-standing arrays is far more restrictive than for roof-mounted panels. Conditions apply to the total area of the array, its height above ground, its distance from the party boundary and its position relative to the front of the house.

For farms and larger holdings, separate exemption provisions apply to agricultural structures, and anything at commercial scale is a full planning application with its own visual, glint and glare, and grid considerations.