This is general guidance based on standard permitted development rights in England. Rules differ for listed buildings, conservation areas, and properties with Article 4 directions. Always confirm with your local planning authority before starting work.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Ground Source Heat Pump in Exmoor National Park?
Installing a ground source heat pump (GSHP) that extracts heat from the ground via buried pipes (horizontal trenches or vertical boreholes). GSHPs have specific permitted development rights under Part 14.
Planning in Exmoor National Park
96%
of planning applications granted
98%
decided within the statutory or agreed time
47%
of householder applications decided within 8 weeks
In the four quarters to 2026 Q1, Exmoor National Park decided 174 planning applications. 55 of these were householder projects such as extensions, loft conversions and outbuildings, of which 98% were granted.
Planning statistics: MHCLG planning application statistics, the four quarters to 2026 Q1. Conservation area and Article 4 data: planning.data.gov.uk, © Historic England / Crown copyright. Open Government Licence v3.0.
Important: Additional Restrictions May Apply in Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park has 17 conservation areas. These include Allerford, Bossington and West Lynch, Colton Farm, Dulverton, Dunster, Leigh Barton. If your property is in a conservation area, some or all permitted development rights may be restricted. For example, you may need planning permission for changes that would normally be permitted, including alterations to the roof, cladding, or extensions visible from a public highway.
Check with Exmoor National Park planning department before starting work to confirm whether your property is affected by any special designations.
Permitted Development Rules for a Ground Source Heat Pump
Generally permitted under Part 14, Class H of the GPDO. Ground source heat pumps are PD when installed within the curtilage of a dwelling. The ground must be reinstated after installation.
Conditions
- 1Must be installed within the curtilage of the dwelling
- 2The land surface must be reinstated to its previous condition after installation
- 3Must not be on land within the curtilage of a listed building
- 4Equipment above ground (pumps, manifolds) must comply with standard outbuilding PD rules if in a separate enclosure
Size and Dimension Limits
- No specific dimensions for the underground pipework
- Above-ground equipment: follow outbuilding rules if housed in a separate structure
When Permitted Development Does Not Apply
- Not PD within the curtilage of a listed building
- Vertical boreholes may require an environmental permit from the Environment Agency depending on depth and local geology
- Ground conditions must be suitable (assessed by an MCS-certified installer)
- The ground must be reinstated afterwards
What About Building Regulations?
Building regulations approval is likely required
Building Regulations apply to the heating system installation. Covers Part L (energy efficiency), Part P (electrical), and the integration with the existing heating system. An MCS-certified installer can self-certify the work. MCS certification is required to qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant.
Building regulations are separate from planning permission. Even if your project is permitted development, you may still need building regulations approval. Contact Exmoor National Park building control or use an approved inspector.
How to Apply in Exmoor National Park
If you need planning permission for your ground source heat pump, you can apply through Exmoor National Park's planning department or via the national Planning Portal.
If your project is permitted development and you want written confirmation, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) from Exmoor National Park. This provides proof that your project does not need planning permission, which can be helpful when selling your property.
What Happens If I Build Without Permission?
Very low planning enforcement risk as the installation is almost entirely underground and invisible once complete. The main regulatory risks are environmental (contamination of groundwater) rather than planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission for a ground source heat pump in Exmoor National Park?
Does a ground source heat pump in Exmoor National Park need building regulations?
How do I apply for planning permission in Exmoor National Park?
How long does planning permission take in Exmoor National Park?
What percentage of planning applications does Exmoor National Park approve?
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