Solar Energy in Richmond, VA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

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

Panel Permits

Richmond permits rooftop solar with a combined building and electrical permit, with most residential PV systems under 25 kW reviewed administratively and interconnected with Dominion Energy under Virginia SCC net metering rules.

Key details: Permit: Building + electrical. Fee: 200-400 dollars typical. Net Metering: 25 kW residential cap. State Law: VA Code 56-594. Utility: Dominion Energy.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

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

HOA Restrictions

Virginia Code 67-701 prohibits HOAs from unreasonably restricting the installation of solar energy collection devices, though HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic standards.

Key details: State Law: VA Code 67-701. Outright Ban: Prohibited. Reasonable Rules: Allowed. Output Test: 10 percent threshold. Cost Test: 5 percent threshold.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

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

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Richmond 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.

This guide is based on Richmond's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.