Solar Energy in Lowell, MA (2026)
2 verified solar energy rules for Lowell, Massachusetts, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Panel Permits
Lowell requires building and electrical permits for solar PV installations, with Historic Board review in historic districts and an as-of-right solar overlay allowing ground-mount systems.
Lowell Solar Panel Permits
Some RestrictionsMGL Part I, Title VII, Chapter 40A, Section 9B — Solar access
Section 9B. Zoning ordinances or by-laws adopted or amended pursuant to section five of this chapter may encourage the use of solar energy systems and protect solar access by regulation of the orientation of streets, lots and buildings, maximum building height limits, minimum building set back requirements, limitations on the type, height and placement of vegetation and other provisions. Zoning...
HOA Restrictions
Massachusetts MGL c.40A s.3 preempts most local and HOA restrictions on solar, so Lowell condo associations and HOAs cannot unreasonably prohibit rooftop PV.
Lowell Solar HOA Restrictions
Few RestrictionsMGL Part I, Title VII, Chapter 40A, Section 3 — Subjects which zoning may not regulate; exemptions; public hearings; temporary manufactured home residences
No zoning ordinance or by-law shall prohibit or unreasonably regulate the installation of solar energy systems or the building of structures that facilitate the collection of solar energy, except where necessary to protect the public health, safety or welfare. No zoning ordinance or by-law shall prohibit the construction or use of an antenna structure by a federally licensed amateur radio opera...
Looking for Middlesex County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Lowell city rules.
Solar Energy in Middlesex County →