Do you need a permit for a solar installation in Fairfax County, VA?
Yes. The building official reviews the roof loads or the ground-mount racking.
Roof-mounted solar may extend 5 ft above the district's height limit.
Solar canopies and ground mounts follow the freestanding accessory structure setbacks.
A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Fairfax County before you build.
Check your exact lot
Your zoning district sets the setbacks, and a flood zone can change the permit answer. Enter your address to see both.
Permits a solar installation can need in Fairfax County
| Permit | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Electrical permit | Solar arrays aren't on Virginia's list of work exempt from permit, so they need an electrical permit and utility interconnection. |
| Building permit (roof or racking) | The building official reviews the roof loads or the ground-mount racking.Medium confidence |
| Architectural Review Board approval | In a Historic Overlay District, the Architectural Review Board (or Heritage Resources staff, for accessory structures not visible from a historic property or major road) must approve the work before the county issues a building permit (Zoning Ordinance § 3101.6.C). |
Limits that apply citywide
| Roof systems | May extend up to 5 ft above the maximum building height |
|---|---|
| Ground mounts and canopies | Same height and setback rules as other freestanding accessory structures |
Local details
- Under Virginia Code § 55.1-1820.1 an HOA can't prohibit solar panels unless the recorded declaration already does, but it may set reasonable size and placement rules.
- Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
- HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.
How to apply
Common questions
- When does a solar installation need a building permit in Fairfax County?
- The building official reviews the roof loads or the ground-mount racking.
- Where do I apply for a solar installation permit in Fairfax County?
- Apply through PLUS permitting portal, or call 703-222-0801.
Sources
- Virginia USBC, 13VAC5-63-80 Section 108.2, Exemptions from application for permit. Checked 2026-10-23
2. One story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided the building area does not exceed 256 square feet... 5. Fences of any height unless required for pedestrian safety as provided for by Section 3306 or used…
- Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance § 3101.6.C, Historic Overlay Districts: building permits (enCodePlus). Checked 2026-10-23
(1) ARB review and approval is required before the issuance of a building permit by the Director and approval of a sign permit by the Zoning Administrator, as listed below... ARB review and approval is not required for building permits that are only for the…
- Fairfax County staff report, Historic Overlay Districts Zoning Ordinance amendment (quoting Va. Code § 15.2-2306 as amended by SB 1457). Checked 2026-10-21
No building or structure, including signs, shall be erected, reconstructed, altered or restored within any such district [without the review board's approval]... no historic landmark, building or structure within any district shall be razed, demolished or m…
- Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance § 4102.7.P, solar collection system; § 4102.7.E, electric vehicle charging. Checked 2026-10-21
A solar collection system mounted on the roof of a building... may extend up to five feet above the applicable maximum building height... Any accessory structure supporting a solar collection system, such as a canopy, must comply with height and setback req…