Micro wind turbines

• there would be only a single free standing turbine within the curtilage of the dwelling
• the turbine would be sited at least 100 metres from the nearest neighbouring residential garden
• the land on which the turbine is to be located is not located within a Conservation Area, Site of Special Scientific Interest or a site of Archaeological Interest.

Before erecting the turbine you must also apply in writing to us for Prior Notification (opens new window). This process will cover

• the design and size of the proposed wind turbine
• a determination as to whether our prior approval (in the form of a planning application) will be required in respect of the siting and external appearance of the proposed wind turbine

Your Prior Notification (opens new window) application will need to be accompanied by:

• a written description of the proposed development, including details of the design and size of the proposed wind turbine
• a plan indicating the site

It is advisable to check the Guidance notes for Prior Notification and Prior Approval (opens new window)

You will not be able to put up the turbine until either:

• you receive from us a written notice of determination that prior approval of the siting and external appearance of the proposed wind turbine is not required; or
• the expiry of 28 days from the application being received by us without our giving notice that such approval is required; or
• where we have given notice within 28 days of receiving the application that prior approval is required for the details, the subsequent granting of that prior approval.

Unless agreed in writing by us, the development must thereafter be carried out in accordance with the agreed details. The development must be carried out within three years of our approving the last required detail.

Finally, any turbine erected under this legislation is subject to all of the following conditions:

• it must, so far as reasonably practicable, be sited so as to minimise its effect on the amenity of the area
• it must be used only for the purposes of domestic microgeneration
• when no longer needed or capable of domestic microgeneration, it must be removed

Applications submitted in respect of the above legislation should be made in writing to Development Management at out postal address:

Civic Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6FF.

Other important information

A building warrant may be required, irrespective of whether or not planning permission is needed. You should therefore check with our Building Standards service as to whether the proposed works require a building warrant.