Guidance on retrofitting homes

Information and advice on retrofit measures for energy saving in your home.

Green roofs

Installing green roofs to domestic premises does not normally require planning permission. This is because they are considered small-scale householder alterations. 

However, it is recommended that you seek advice from the council via the pre-application service, particularly if your home is located in a conservation area, is a listed building or is subject to an Article 4 Direction. This would include submission of a completed application form and fee payment via the pre-application process on our website

If you believe your proposed works would be lawful under the permitted development regulations, and you require written confirmation from the council that your proposed green roof installation does not need planning permission, you are advised to submit an application for a lawful development certificate

If your installation does not meet government requirements, you will need to apply for planning permission.

It is advisable to consider building regulations and to get a structural survey of your roof to check that it can take the additional load. 

Further advice on green roofs can be found in the Green Roof Code of Best Practice.