Takoma Park's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

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

Panel Permits

Solar panel installations in Takoma Park require Montgomery County building and electrical permits. Maryland Public Utilities Article 7-603 protects homeowners from unreasonable restrictions on solar energy devices. Montgomery County has streamlined the solar permit process for residential rooftop systems. Takoma Park actively promotes solar energy through community solar programs and the city's sustainability initiatives.

Key details: Permits Required: Building + electrical. State Protection: MD PUA 7-603. Net Metering: Available through Pepco. Property Tax: Solar exempt from increase. Permit Office: MoCo DPS 240-777-0311.

Installing solar panels without required permits is a code violation. Unpermitted electrical work creates safety and insurance liability. Systems must pass inspection before utility interconnection. Penalties for unpermitted work include fines and required correction to meet code.

The rules around panel permits in Takoma Park lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

HOA Restrictions

Maryland Public Utilities Article 7-603 strongly protects Takoma Park homeowners' right to install solar energy devices. HOAs, condominium associations, and deed covenants may not prohibit or unreasonably restrict solar installations. Any restriction that significantly increases installation cost or decreases system efficiency is void and unenforceable. Takoma Park has few HOA-governed communities, and the city actively supports residential solar adoption.

Key details: HOA Solar Ban: Prohibited under MD law. Governing Law: MD PUA 7-603. Void Restrictions: Rules increasing cost/reducing efficiency. Remedies: Court relief + attorney fees. City Position: Strongly pro-solar.

HOAs that enforce solar panel bans or impose unreasonable restrictions violate Maryland PUA 7-603. Homeowners may seek judicial relief and courts may award damages and attorney fees. Void restrictions cannot be enforced through fines, liens, or other HOA enforcement mechanisms.

Takoma Park 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, Takoma Park 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 Takoma Park can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.