Is planning permission required for commercial air conditioning units?

When it comes to installing air conditioning units in commercial premises, there are a number of factors to consider. One of the most important is whether or not planning permission is required. In this blog post, we’ll explore the rules and regulations surrounding commercial air conditioning units and when planning permission is necessary.

What Is Planning Permission?

Planning permission is a legal document that grants approval for a development project or change of use of land or buildings. It is issued by local authorities and must be obtained before any construction work can begin. Planning permission ensures that any development project meets certain standards and does not have an adverse effect on the environment or local community. It is something that can be applied to both residential and commercial properties, whether you are building a garage conversion, an office garden room or extending your commercial premises.

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Do I Need Planning Permission for Commercial Air Conditioning Units?

The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the size and type of air conditioning unit being installed, as well as the location of the premises. Generally speaking, if you are installing an air conditioning unit in an existing building, you will not need planning permission as it falls into Permitted Development Rights, provided it meets certain criteria. These include:

– The unit should not protrude more than 0.3 metres from the wall or roof;

– The unit should be no larger than 2 metres in height;

– The unit should be no louder than 45 decibels (dB); and

– The unit should not cause any disruption to neighbouring properties.

However, if your proposed installation does not meet these criteria, then you may need to apply for planning permission before proceeding with your project. It’s also worth noting that if you are installing an air conditioning unit in a listed building or in a conservation area, then you will almost certainly need to apply for planning permission regardless of its size or noise level.

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How Do I Apply for Planning Permission?

If you do need to apply for planning permission for your commercial air conditioning unit, then you will need to contact your local authority who will provide you with all the necessary information and forms that need to be completed.

You will also need to provide detailed plans of your proposed installation as well as evidence that it meets all relevant regulations and standards. Once your application has been submitted, it can take up to 8 weeks for a decision to be made by the local authority so it’s important to plan ahead if possible.

Conclusion

Whether or not planning permission is required for residential or commercial air conditioning units depends on several factors including size, noise level and location of the premises. If your proposed installation does not meet certain criteria then you may need to apply for planning permission before proceeding with your project so make sure you check with your local authority first. This is a general rule that apples to new spaces built in and around your home or in commercial buildings.