Converse's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In Converse, Texas, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Panel Permits

Solar PV installations in Converse require a building and electrical permit under the adopted 2018 IRC and 2017 NEC. Ground mounts follow setback rules. Inspections required before grid interconnection.

Key details: Code: 2017 NEC 690. Rapid shutdown: Required NEC 690.12. Permit required: Yes building and electrical. HOA: TX Property Code 202.010. Utility: CPS Energy.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Converse gives residents more flexibility on panel permits.

HOA Restrictions

TX Property Code 202.010 protects Converse homeowners from HOA solar bans. HOAs can set reasonable aesthetic standards but cannot force placement reducing output by more than 10 percent.

Key details: State law: TX Property Code 202.010. Max output reduction: 10 percent. Max cost increase: 10 percent. Roofline rule: Panels below ridge. Color: Match roof where feasible.

Converse is more permissive than most cities when it comes to hoa restrictions. That said, there are still limits.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Converse gives residents more room on solar energy. 2 of the 2 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

Keep in mind that Converse can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, which shows when its source was last checked.