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Solar Energy

DeSoto's Relaxed Approach to Solar Energy: What's Allowed

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in DeSoto or are thinking about moving there, solar energy are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. DeSoto has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of solar energy, and some of them might surprise you.

Panel Permits

DeSoto requires building and electrical permits for installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on residential and commercial properties. Applications are submitted to Development Services with a

Key details: Permit Required: Building and electrical. Wind Design: 115 mph load required. Rapid Shutdown: NEC 690.12 per. Interconnection: Oncor agreement required. Equipment: UL-listed required.

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Desoto code enforcement](https://www.desototexas.gov/216/Building-Inspections) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

DeSoto is more permissive than most cities when it comes to panel permits. That said, there are still limits.

HOA Restrictions

Texas Property Code Chapter 202 (Section 202.010) strongly protects homeowners' rights to install solar energy devices on their property regardless of HOA deed restrictions. Under Texas SB 398 (2011),

Key details: Code Compliance: TX Property Code Ch. 202 protects solar. Requirement: SB 398 limits HOA restrictions. Requirement: 10% production reduction threshold. Requirement: Color and slope restrictions allowed. Requirement: ACC application typically required.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find DeSoto gives residents more flexibility on hoa restrictions.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, DeSoto 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.

These rules come from DeSoto's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.