Adding a rooflight can brighten up a space, improve ventilation, and create a striking architectural feature.
But before you commit to this, there’s something to double-check: do you need planning permission for a skylight in the UK?
The answer depends on your property, the type of roof, and whether your home falls under specific protections.
WHEN IS PLANNING PERMISSION NOT NEEDED?
In most UK homes, rooflights are considered a permitted development. That means you don’t need formal approval, provided the installation meets a few key conditions.
For a rooflight to qualify under permitted development rules:
- It must not protrude more than 150 mm from the plane of the existing roof.
- It should not rise above the highest part of the roof.
- Any side-facing window must be obscure-glazed and either fixed shut or open at least 1.7 metres above the internal floor level.
These conditions apply whether you’re fitting a simple rooflight or a larger feature like a roof lantern. As long as the height, position, and glazing meet the rules, permission usually isn’t required.
You can cross-check your plans with official guidance from the Planning Portal.
WHEN DO YOU NEED PLANNING PERMISSION FOR A SKYLIGHT?
Not every home can rely on permitted development rights. There are exceptions where you’ll need to apply for planning permission before going ahead.
You’ll likely need approval if:
- The property is listed, even for minor external changes. That includes adding a rooflight.
- The building sits within a conservation area, especially one governed by an Article 4 direction, which limits permitted changes.
- The design noticeably alters the roof’s shape or profile.
- The home is a flat or maisonette, which generally doesn’t qualify for permitted development at all.
- The rooflight is part of a wider extension or redevelopment project that already requires consent.
If any of these apply, check with your local planning authority before booking an installation. A short conversation now can prevent expensive delays later.
WHAT ABOUT BUILDING REGULATIONS?
Even if planning permission isn’t required, that doesn’t mean you can skip the paperwork entirely. Building Regulations approval is a separate matter, and most rooflight installations will need to meet these standards.
Here’s what Building Control usually checks:
- Structural support: Will the roof safely carry the additional weight?
- Thermal performance: Does the product meet U-value requirements for insulation?
- Fire safety: Are escape routes preserved, especially in converted lofts or upper floors?
- Weatherproofing: Flashing, sealing, and drainage must prevent leaks over time.
If your rooflight is part of a new build or larger extension, it will typically be covered within the wider project’s approval.
For standalone installations, your contractor may handle the sign-off, or you can confirm with your local building control team.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON’T QUALIFY FOR PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT?
Some properties don’t have permitted development rights at all. This might be the case if:
- Your home was created through a change of use (e.g., barn conversion).
- The property has had those rights removed by the council, often in protected areas.
- It’s a flat or maisonette, which are treated differently under planning law.
If your home doesn’t qualify, installing a rooflight without permission is a risk. Local authorities can issue enforcement notices, which may require you to reverse the work. It’s best to confirm your status before making any changes.
CAN ROOFLIGHT EXTENSIONS AFFECT YOUR PERMISSION STATUS?
If you’re adding a rooflight as part of a new extension, it may be included within the overall planning approval. However, if the extension itself was built under permitted development, the rules don’t automatically carry over to further changes.
It’s important to consider the full context of the project.
Rooflights added after the fact, even if small, might push the design beyond permitted limits, especially if multiple elements are being added at once. When in doubt, ask your local planning team.
SIMPLE CHECKLIST: CAN I INSTALL WITHOUT PERMISSION?
This quick list will help you determine whether your project is likely to fall under permitted development:
- The rooflight won’t protrude more than 150 mm from the roof surface.
- It stays below the highest point of the roof.
- The property is not listed and not in a conservation area with restrictions.
- You live in a house, not a flat or converted building with removed rights.
- The rooflight meets all current Building Regulations.
If you’re ticking every box, formal planning permission probably isn’t required.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DO YOU NEED PLANNING PERMISSION FOR A SKYLIGHT IN A FLAT ROOF?
Not usually. As long as the rooflight doesn’t rise more than 150 mm above the surface and meets other rules, it’s allowed under permitted development.
CAN YOU INSTALL A ROOFLIGHT ON A LISTED BUILDING?
Only with listed building consent. All exterior changes must be approved by the local authority’s conservation team.
WHAT’S THE RULE IN CONSERVATION AREAS?
You’ll need to check if your property is subject to an Article 4 direction. If so, permitted development rights may be restricted, so always ask your council.
ARE ROOF LANTERNS TREATED THE SAME AS ROOFLIGHTS?
Generally yes, if the height and position fall within permitted development limits. Many roof lanterns are designed specifically to comply.
HOW IS BUILDING CONTROL DIFFERENT FROM PLANNING PERMISSION?
Planning focuses on the appearance and impact on the surroundings. Building Control checks structural safety, insulation, and compliance with technical standards.
UNDERSTAND THE LAW BEFORE YOU INSTALL
A well-placed roof lantern or rooflight can change the feel of a room, bringing in light and a sense of space, and in many cases, you can go ahead without needing planning permission.
But exceptions do exist, especially for homes in protected areas or buildings with altered rights.
Knowing if you need planning permission for a skylight early on can help you avoid delays, extra costs, or having to undo work later.
If you need advice, contact us here at The Rooflight Centre, and we’ll help you confirm whether your installation needs planning permission.
