Do I Need Planning Permission for A Green Roof?

A green roof, also known as a living roof, is a roof covered with vegetation planted over a waterproof membrane.

Green roofs provide environmental benefits like stormwater management, increased biodiversity, and better air quality. They can also enhance a building's insulation and prolong the lifespan of the roof.

In recent years, planning authorities have been actively promoting green roofs and sustainable construction methods. Incorporating a green roof into the plans for any new build can help streamline the approval process, as it is now considered a desirable aspect by many councils.

When Planning Permission is Usually Required

There are certain situations where you will typically need to apply for planning permission before installing a green roof:

• If your building is listed or located in a conservation area, any changes to the external appearance including a green roof will require permission. This helps preserve the historical aesthetic.
• If adding a green roof changes the shape or appearance of your existing roof, such as adding railings, approval is needed. This ensures the changes align with local development plans.
• Increasing the height of your roof substantially to accommodate a green roof system will require planning permission. There are usually limits on building heights in each area.

When Permission May Not Be Necessary

However, in many cases planning permission is not needed:

• For regular residential homes and garages, green roofs can be installed without permission as long as the original roof shape is maintained.
• Using thin sedum roofing mats that don't alter the existing roof height or shape typically does not require approval. Sedum is a hardy groundcover plant commonly used for these applications.
• Temporary green roof installations like containers on flat roofs generally don't need planning permission either.

Checking Requirements with Your Local Council

To confirm if you need permission for a potential green roof project, contact your local council planning department. Fees may apply if submitting an official planning permission application. Providing details and dimensions of your plans can help them determine requirements.

Building Regulations and Considerations

While there are no specific building regulations relating to green roofs, certain considerations need attention:

• Load Capacity: Ensure that the roof structure can support the additional weight of a green roof.
• Fire Prevention: Address fire prevention measures to mitigate any potential risks.
• Water Disposal: Plan for proper water disposal from the surface of the installation.

Green Roofs and Sustainability

Green roofs contribute to increased sustainability scores for new buildings and can earn credits with BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), particularly within the land use and ecology section.

Planning permission is often not required for green roofs in the UK as long as the roof shape and height remain the same. However, listed buildings and conservation areas have more stringent rules.

Remember to consult your local council and relevant professionals for specific advice regarding your situation, and then reap the environmental benefits of green roofing!