Daylight and sunlight assessment
When is a daylight and sunlight assessment needed?
- Where the proposed development could potentially negatively impact the existing levels of daylight or sunlight on neighbouring properties. This includes gardens and amenity spaces.
- Applications for 10 or more new residential units.
What information should be included in a daylight and sunlight assessment?
The report needs to be prepared in line with the methods described in the Building Research Establishment’s (BRE):
The information included should be enough to determine:
- the existing and expected levels of daylight, sunlight and overshadowing on neighbouring properties
- the measures that will be taken to reduce the expected impact of the proposed development
Applications must include an assessment of the light within the new units and associated amenity areas where:
- there are 10 or more new residential units
- there may be potential for poor light in residential units
How do I submit a daylight and sunlight assessment?
If you apply for planning permission online using the Planning Portal, you can upload your daylight and sunlight assessment. This is after you have completed the relevant application forms.
Before uploading any files, please read our guidance notes for submitting electronic files with planning applications (PDF).
If you choose to submit a paper-based application instead, you will need to provide:
- four copies of your daylight and sunlight assessment
- four copies of the relevant application forms.