Domestic air conditioning in England is not automatically permitted development. Since the Class G changes that took effect on 29 May 2025, qualifying air source heat pumps may provide both heating and cooling, but the unit must not be used solely for cooling and every other limit and condition still applies. Flats, listed buildings, conservation areas, Article 4 directions, prior alterations and property restrictions can require additional checks, so seek written advice from the local planning authority when the position is uncertain.
The key cooling-only distinction
Air conditioning and air-to-air heat pumps may use similar equipment, but planning classification depends on the proposal and use, not the marketing label. A reversible unit can provide heating and cooling, while cooling-only equipment has no heating function.
The 2025 amendment to Schedule 2, Part 14, Class G of the General Permitted Development Order took effect on 29 May 2025. It changed the former heating-only condition so a qualifying air source heat pump may provide heating and cooling, while retaining the rule that it must not be used solely for cooling.
Other Class G limitations
Permitted development rights are conditional. Limits concern matters such as the type and number of units, size, placement, proximity to boundaries, listed buildings and scheduled monuments. The current legislation should be read as a whole rather than relying on one summary.
Standards and definitions can change. Confirm the legislation in force on the decision date and check whether previous development, a planning condition or an Article 4 direction has removed rights.
When to contact the council
Contact the local planning authority before ordering equipment if the unit is for cooling-only use, the property is a flat, the building is listed, the site is in a conservation area or the proposed condenser is prominent or close to neighbours.
Provide a plan, elevations, dimensions, model details, sound data, mounting method and a clear description of heating and cooling use. If legal certainty matters, ask whether a lawful development certificate is appropriate rather than relying only on informal advice.
- Describe the actual intended use accurately.
- Supply outdoor-unit dimensions and location.
- Include manufacturer noise data and nearby windows or boundaries.
- Keep the council's written response with the property records.
Planning is not the only consent
Planning permission does not override lease terms, freeholder consent, restrictive covenants, building regulations or rights affecting shared walls and common parts. These are separate questions.
Noise can also lead to statutory nuisance concerns even where planning permission was not required. Sensible siting, anti-vibration measures and an acoustically suitable model should be addressed at design stage.
Frequently asked questions
Is reversible air conditioning permitted development in England?
Potentially, if it is an air source heat pump that is not used solely for cooling and every other Class G limit and condition is met. The facts and intended use must support that position.
Does cooling in summer invalidate Class G?
The current legislation says the heat pump must not be used solely for cooling. A reversible system may therefore provide cooling as part of its use, but every other Class G limit and condition still applies. Obtain planning advice for the proposed installation.
Do flats have the same permitted development rights as houses?
Do not assume they do. Permitted development rights and Class G application need careful checking for flats, and leaseholder or freeholder consent is a separate requirement.
Can a council still act over noise?
Yes. Planning status does not prevent investigation of a potential statutory noise nuisance.
Related guides
Sources and further reading
How this guide was prepared
This guide was written by the Local AC Installers Editorial Team. We compare official guidance, legislation and established consumer information, separate general information from project-specific advice, and show publication dates and sources. We do not accept installer accreditation claims at face value.