Do you need a permit for a solar installation in Prince George's County, MD?
It depends on the details of your project.
Small-scale solar is allowed on roofs, walls, poles or the ground in every zone.
A roof system may rise no more than 15 ft above the roofline.
Protecting your sun from a neighbor's future trees or building is up to you: you can record a solar easement.
A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Prince George's 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 Prince George's County
| Permit | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Building and electrical permits (solar) | Solar systems aren't on DPIE's exempt list.Medium confidence |
| Historic Area Work Permit (HPC) | Exterior work on a designated historic site, in its environmental setting or in a county historic district needs a Historic Area Work Permit from the Historic Preservation Commission. |
Limits that apply citywide
| Roof systems | No more than 15 ft above the roofline |
|---|---|
| Ground systems | Follow the accessory structure location rules: not in the front yard or corner side yard |
Local details
- 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.
- Prince George's renamed its zones in 2022. If a plat or listing says R-55 or R-80, the lot is now RSF-65 or RSF-95.
How to apply
Common questions
- When does a solar installation need an electrical permit in Prince George's County?
- Solar systems aren't on DPIE's exempt list.
- Where do I apply for a solar installation permit in Prince George's County?
- Apply through DPIE Momentum permitting portal, or call (301) 636-2050.
Sources
- Prince George's County DPIE, What work is exempt from obtaining a permit?. Checked 2026-10-21
A one-story detached accessory structure on one- and two-family dwelling properties with less than 150 square feet of floor space not designed or intended for occupation or habitation and limited to 1 accessory structure only per property... All forms of pa…
- Prince George's Planning, Historic Area Work Permits. Checked 2026-10-21
[In Prince George's County, properties] designated as a historic site, or those within a locally designated historic district, may require a HAWP... Here are examples of projects that always require a HAWP: Replacement, alteration, or the addition of roofs,…
- Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance (Subtitle 27), Sections 27-5202, 27-5203, 27-6600 and 27-6800. Checked 2026-10-21
[27-5203(b)(15)] An outdoor swimming pool shall be enclosed by a fence at least six feet high... An outdoor swimming pool accessory to a single-family dwelling may be located in a required side or rear yard except that it shall be set back at least eight fe…