Micro combined heat and power

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.