Planning Permission for Security Devices

When you're planning to install security measures like CCTV cameras or a home alarm system, you'll generally find that you don't need to obtain planning permission. However, it's crucial to understand that certain specific requirements apply, and if your property is in a particular type of location, you must always consult your local planning authority (often known as your local council's planning department) first.

For most properties, you can proceed with installing security cameras or alarm systems without formal permission. This changes significantly if your property holds the status of a listed building or is situated within a designated conservation area. In these specific circumstances, you are legally required to contact your local planning authority and seek their guidance before commencing any installation work at all.

Specific Rules for CCTV Cameras

To ensure your CCTV camera installation doesn't require planning permission, it must strictly adhere to the following criteria. If your proposed setup exceeds any of these stipulated limits or conditions, you will need to submit a planning application:

• Your building can feature a maximum of 16 cameras in total. Crucially, no more than 4 cameras are permitted on any single external wall.

• Each individual camera unit must not exceed 0.75 metres in length, 0.25 metres in width, and 0.25 metres in height.

• You must position all cameras at a minimum height of 2.5 metres above ground level. Furthermore, each camera needs to be situated at least 10 metres away from any other camera on the property.

• No camera should extend more than 1 metre outwards from the main building structure. Similarly, you cannot install a camera within 1 metre of an adjacent wall.