Residential Photovoltaic (Solar) Permits & Inspection Process
Residential photovoltaic (solar) systems are an alternative way to provide power to a home. The solar panels are usually attached to the roof of the house or other residential structure (such as a detached garage). They may also be built as a separate structure on the ground (in which case the solar array will be treated as a residential accessory structure).
Solar projects require two permits: a building permit (for the attachment of the solar panels) and an electrical permit (for the connection to the home’s electrical service). Rooftop solar projects must be applied for electronically.
For qualified projects, visit the eSolar webpage for more information.
Note: Townhouses 4 stories above grade and over are considered commercial structures and need to apply for a commercial solar permit.
A permit is required prior to the attachment of photovoltaic (solar) panels to a residential structure or building.
You will need an electrical permit to complete the project. This permit is issued after the issuance of the related building permit for the project.
Adequately prepared applications are usually issued within 5 – 7 days of application.
Please see our submittal requirements for residential PV systems for information about what is required on plans.
For the residential rooftop solar panel installations and referback rooftop solar panel installations pay attention to the prescribed timeframes for submitting the application, corrections, and paying due fees. Failure to comply with these timeframes may result in voiding the permit and losing the filing fees.
Please refer to our fee schedule for information regarding fees associated with this permit application process.
Homeowners may not apply for a solar permit in their name. To apply for a solar permit, a contractor must have a valid Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license.
Please see our list of required inspections associated with this permit application type.
We will "fast-track" the review process for each permit application that meets the standardized requirements as outlined below: