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  1. Welcome to Planning Portal
  2. Do you need permission?
  3. Common projects
  4. Micro combined heat and power
  5. Planning Permission

Micro combined heat and power

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  1. Planning Permission
  2. Building Regulations
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Planning Permission

Planning permission is not normally needed when installing a micro-combined heat and power system in a house if the work is all internal. If the installation requires a flue outside, however, it will normally be permitted development if the conditions outlined below are met:

  • Flues on the rear or side elevation of the building are allowed to a maximum of one metre above the highest part of the roof.
  • If the building is listed or in a designated area even if you enjoy permitted development rights it is advisable to check with your local planning authority before a flue is fitted. Consent is also likely to be needed for internal alterations.
  • In a conservation area or in a World Heritage site the flue should not be fitted on the principal or side elevation if it would be visible from a highway.

If the project also requires an outside building to store fuel or related equipment the same rules apply to that building as to other extensions and garden outbuildings:

  • Read more about planning and extensions.
  • Read more about planning and outbuildings.

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      Disclaimer

      This is an introductory guide and is not a definitive source of legal information. Guidance is based on national rules, but additional local rules may also affect what permissions are needed. You should check if this is the case before applying or starting work.
      Guidance here relates to the planning regime for England, the policy in Wales may differ. If in doubt contact your local planning authority. Please note, local authorities may charge a fee for pre-application advice.
      Read our full disclaimer.


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          The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2025 Planning Portal.

          The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2025 Planning Portal.