3 places you can't install plug-in solar panels — the new planning rules that could ruin your grand designs for your balcony

Last month, the UK government announced that plug-in solar panels would become legal to buy from August 27.

Now, new planning rules have passed into law that specify exactly where you can — and can't — install them.

Before we get into the details, it's important to understand that these rules apply to "permitted development" – changes you can make to your home without needing to apply planning permission.

If your solar panels don't meet the permitted development rules, you might still be able to install them, but you'll need to apply for planning permission first and pay the relevant fee.

A planning officer will then do a survey and determine whether or not you can go ahead.

If you install solar panels without the required permission, you could be fined and forced to take them down.

Your local council's website will explain how to apply for permission, while the company supplying your plug-in panels should also be able to offer advice on the process.

"Plug-in solar has the potential to make renewable energy accessible to many more households, but it’s important that consumers have clear information about how and where these systems can be installed," explained a spokesperson for EcoFlow , which specialises in home power stations, solar generators, and panels.

"As a manufacturer, EcoFlow recognises its responsibility to provide customers with the information they need to install and use its products in line with relevant UK requirements, and we will ensure our guidance reflects the regulations in place." With that in mind, here are three locations where plug-in solar panels aren't allowed without planning permission.

1.

On anything wooden (Image credit: Generated by Google Gemini) Before you start planning to install solar panels on your balcony, check what it's made from.

If you live in a block of flats, plug-in solar systems don't qualify as "permitted development" if the panels or any other part of the system would be installed on a wooden balcony, wall, or any part of the building's exterior that's clad in timber.

If you live in a house, you can't install plug-in solar panels if any part of the system would be mounted on a wooden gate, fence, wall, or other timber surface.

This is to avoid the risk of fire.