Solar panels in Southwark

637 applications since 2019. 509 approved and 38 refused. Refused: about 1 in 14 here, about 1 in 10 across the councils we cover.

Last updated 9 November 2026.

Without planning permission

On a pitched roof, no more than 0.2 m proud of the slope and no higher than the highest part of the roof, chimneys aside
On a flat roof, no more than 0.6 m above the highest part of the roof, chimneys aside
On a wall, no more than 0.2 m out if it abuts a road, 0.4 m otherwise
Not on a listed house
Plug-in panels not on a wooden wall or timber cladding
Sited to keep the effect on the look of the house and the area as small as possible

England, houses only. Flats, listed buildings, conservation areas and Article 4 directions change this. The full rules.

Year	Applications	Approved	Refused
2026	86	51	3
2025	102	89	2
2024	123	102	8
2023	85	66	6
2022	110	93	10
2021	61	49	6
2020	43	37	2
2019	27	22	1

Council	Approved	Refused	How often
Bromley	390	119	about 1 in 4
City	77	1	about 1 in 78
Lambeth	400	86	about 1 in 6
Lewisham	100	13	about 1 in 9
Tower Hamlets	135	118	about 1 in 2