Understanding Planning Permission for Heat Pumps in Wales: What You Need to Know in 2025
- Robert Harvey
- May 28
- 3 min read
As Wales continues its drive toward a low-carbon future, heat pumps are becoming an increasingly popular solution for home heating. If you’re thinking about installing a heat pump in Wales, it’s crucial to understand the current planning rules—and how they might be changing soon.
📝 Current Planning Requirements for Heat Pumps in Wales
Air Source Heat Pumps
Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are generally considered "permitted development" in Wales, meaning they do not require planning permission—provided certain conditions are met:
Used for heating only (not cooling).
Only one unit may be installed per dwelling.
Size limit: The outdoor compressor unit must not exceed 1 cubic metre.
Distance from boundary: No part of the ASHP can be installed within 3 metres of the boundary of your property.
Visibility: Units cannot be installed on a wall or roof that fronts a highway.
Flat roof: Units must be at least 1 metre from the roof edge and not be within 3 meters of the boundary.
Properties in conservation areas or that are listed buildings may have additional restrictions, so it’s always advisable to check with your local planning authority.
Ground Source Heat Pumps
Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) typically do not require planning permission, especially for closed-loop systems. Surface-level components must still comply with outbuilding rules.
🔍 What’s Changing: The Welsh Government’s 2025 Consultation
In April 2025, the Welsh Government launched a public consultation on proposed changes to permitted development rights, including those for air source heat pumps.
Key Proposals of the Welsh Government Consultation Include:
Expanding permitted development to cover air-to-air heat pumps (currently excluded).
Adjusting or removing the 3-metre boundary rule to make installations more flexible.
Allowing installations on or within the curtilage of flats and non-domestic buildings.
The consultation runs until 1 July 2025, and you can view or respond to the Permitted Development Rights proposals here.
These changes aim to align Wales more closely with recent updates in England, where:
ASHPs can now be installed without boundary restrictions.
Size limits have increased to 1.5 cubic metres.
Up to two units are allowed for detached houses.
Air-to-air heat pumps are included in permitted development.
❗What This Means for Homeowners
For now, the existing rules in Wales remain in place. If your installation meets the permitted development criteria, you can proceed without a planning application. However, with changes on the horizon, it’s wise to keep an eye on updates from the Welsh Government.
📋 Recommendations for Homeowners in Wales
Consult Your Local Planning Authority (LPA): Even if your installation seems to qualify as permitted development, it's prudent to get confirmation, especially for properties in conservation areas or with unique characteristics.
Consider a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC): While optional, obtaining an LDC can provide peace of mind and serve as proof of compliance for future property transactions.
Ensure Compliance with Building Regulations: Separate from planning permissions, installations must adhere to building regulations covering aspects like structural safety, noise, and energy efficiency.
🛠 Work with a Trusted Installer: Limitless Energy
At Limitless Energy, we make the process simple:
🏡Assess your property the potential heat pump location and provide non-liable advice on planning compliance
📝 Recommend experienced architects who can make applications when permission is needed
📏 Ensure your installation meets all current and future regulations
We are fully certified:
✅ MCS Certified
✅ TrustMark Registered
✅ RECC Member
✅ NAPIT Approved Contractor
📞 Contact us today: 01792 346557
Stay informed and plan smart—let Limitless Energy help you install with confidence.
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