Boilers and heating

Planning permission is not normally required for the installation or replacement of a boiler or heating system if all the work is internal, though if you live in a listed building you should check with your local planning authority.

If the installation requires a flue outside, however, it will normally be permitted development if the conditions outlined below are met.

• Flues cannot exceed the highest part of the roof by one metre or more
• 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 conservation areas, World Heritage sites, national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty, and the Broads the flue should not be fitted on the principal or side elevation if it fronts a highway.

Additional rights are also available for installations of flues relating to biomass¹ and combined heat and power² systems.

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

• Read more about planning and extensions³
• Read more about planning and outbuildings⁴.

1. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/biomass-fuelled-appliances
2. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/micro-combined-heat-and-power
3. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/extensions
4. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/outbuildings