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

Matthews maintains 113 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with solar energy. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Matthews falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Panel Permits

Matthews issues solar panel permits through Planning and Development with electrical and building permits per NC State Building Code. Residential rooftop solar is by-right in all zoning districts. Duke Energy net metering available under NC Utilities Commission rules.

Key details: Permit: Building + electrical combined. Rooftop: By-right all residential. Wind load: 90 mph design. Net metering: Duke Energy NEM Rider. Fee: 200-500 dollars residential.

Unpermitted installations must be inspected retroactively with double permit fees. Non-compliant structural or electrical work requires correction. Duke Energy may decline interconnection for non-permitted systems.

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

HOA Restrictions

NCGS 22B-20 prohibits HOAs from banning solar collectors on detached single-family homes. HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic standards regarding location but cannot effectively prevent solar installation.

Key details: Statute: NCGS 22B-20 Solar Access. Protected: Detached single-family. Allowed restrictions: Reasonable aesthetic only. Visibility: Only if solar gain reasonable. Remedy: Declaratory judgment + fees.

HOA violations of NCGS 22B-20 void the restrictive covenant and may expose the HOA to damages and attorney fees in a homeowner suit. Homeowners can enforce through declaratory judgment in superior court.

Matthews 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, Matthews 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.

All of the above reflects Matthews's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.