Security

Planning permission

Many homeowners choose to install CCTV on their land to catch and deter intruders.

Planning permission is not normally required for installing a CCTV camera, though if you live in a listed building or conservation area you should check with your local planning authority.

• You are allowed up to 16 Cameras on buildings with no more than 4 on a single wall. 
• The size of the cameras cannot exceed 0.75 by 0.25 by 0.25 metres. 
• They cannot be placed less than 2.5 metres above ground level or within 10 metres of another camera. 
• The camera cannot protrude more than 1 metre or be within 1 metre another wall.

Building regulations

Building regulations do not generally apply but you should take care that the installation is safe and the fixed units are stable. 

If your installation involves carrying out electrical work in your home or garden, you will have to follow rules in the building regulations. 

Find out more about the building regulations for electrics: Approved Document P – Electrical Safety¹.

You may wish to use an installer who is registered with a competent person scheme or seek approval from a building control body. It is advisable to contact an installer who can provide the necessary advice.

If the installation of a CCTV system includes a new electrical circuit then it is deemed as notifiable work and should be checked by the relevant building control body or completed by a competent person.

Find out more about the Competent Persons Scheme².

1. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/applications/building-control-applications/building-control/approved-documents/part-p-electrical-safety/approved-document-p
2. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/applications/building-control-applications/building-control/how-to-get-approval/where-to-get-approval/competent-person-self-certification-schemes