Solar panels across the DC area
Where may I put solar panels on my own house or yard? The rules differ at every jurisdiction line. Here is the short answer for each.
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.
| Where | Short answer |
|---|---|
| Washington, DC | Rooftop and ground-mounted solar need a DOB solar permit. In a historic district HPO reviews placement, and panels on rear slopes and flat roofs are routinely approved. |
| Montgomery County, MD | Zoning height limits don't apply to solar panels, and panels may project up to 3 ft into a side setback. Solar needs DPS electrical and building permits. Maryland law limits HOA bans. |
| Prince George's County, MD | Small-scale solar is allowed by right on roofs, walls, poles or the ground. Roof systems may rise no more than 15 ft above the roofline. Ground systems follow accessory location rules. You can record a solar easement to protect your sun. |
| Alexandria, VA | A solar energy system is a permitted accessory use (§ 7-101). In the historic districts the BAR reviews panels visible from a public way. An HOA can't ban panels unless its recorded declaration already did. |
| Arlington County, VA | Solar needs building and electrical permits. The rule that rooftop equipment be hidden from the street doesn't apply to solar, and an HOA can't ban panels unless its recorded declaration already did. |
| Fairfax County, VA | Roof-mounted solar may rise 5 ft above the district height limit. Ground mounts and solar canopies follow the accessory structure setbacks. Building and electrical permits are required, and an HOA can't ban panels unless its recorded declaration already did. |
Towns and cities inside these counties (for example, Rockville, Gaithersburg, Bowie, Laurel, Herndon, Vienna, and Falls Church) have their own rules.