Solar System Building Codes
Before installing a solar energy system, you should investigate local building codes,
zoning ordinances, and subdivision covenants, as well as any special regulations
pertaining to the site. You will probably need a building permit to install a solar
energy system onto an existing building.
Not every community or municipality initially welcomes residential renewable energy
installations. Although this is often due to ignorance or the comparative novelty of
renewable energy systems, you must comply with existing building and permit
procedures to install your system.
The matter of building code and zoning compliance for a solar system installation is
typically a local issue. Even if a statewide building code is in effect, it's usually
enforced locally by your city, county, or parish. Common problems homeowners have
encountered with building codes include the following:
Potential zoning issues include these:
Special area regulations—such as local community, subdivision, or homeowner's
association covenants—also demand compliance. These covenants, historic district
regulations, and flood-plain provisions can easily be overlooked.
To find out what's needed for local compliance, contact your local jurisdiction's
zoning and building enforcement divisions and any appropriate homeowner's,
subdivision, neighborhood, and/or community association(s).
Before installing a solar energy system, you should investigate local building codes,
zoning ordinances, and subdivision covenants, as well as any special regulations
pertaining to the site. You will probably need a building permit to install a solar
energy system onto an existing building.
Not every community or municipality initially welcomes residential renewable energy
installations. Although this is often due to ignorance or the comparative novelty of
renewable energy systems, you must comply with existing building and permit
procedures to install your system.
The matter of building code and zoning compliance for a solar system installation is
typically a local issue. Even if a statewide building code is in effect, it's usually
enforced locally by your city, county, or parish. Common problems homeowners have
encountered with building codes include the following:
- Exceeding roof load
- Unacceptable heat exchangers
- Improper wiring
- Unlawful tampering with potable water supplies.
Potential zoning issues include these:
- Obstructing sideyards
- Erecting unlawful protrusions on roofs
- Siting the system too close to streets or lot boundaries.
Special area regulations—such as local community, subdivision, or homeowner's
association covenants—also demand compliance. These covenants, historic district
regulations, and flood-plain provisions can easily be overlooked.
To find out what's needed for local compliance, contact your local jurisdiction's
zoning and building enforcement divisions and any appropriate homeowner's,
subdivision, neighborhood, and/or community association(s).
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