Solar Energy in Winston-Salem, NC (2026)
2 verified solar energy rules for Winston-Salem, North Carolina, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Panel Permits
Winston-Salem requires building and electrical permits for rooftop solar installations. Residential systems typically permitted over the counter for 100-200 dollars. NC state building code governs structural and electrical requirements. NC solar access law protects installations.
Solar Energy: Panel Permits
Few RestrictionsN.C.G.S. 22B-20(d)-(e)
(d) This section does not prohibit a deed restriction, covenant, or similar binding agreement that runs with the land that would prohibit the location of solar collectors as described in subsection (b) of this section that are visible by a person on the ground: (1) On the facade of a structure that faces areas open to common or public access; (2) On a roof surface that slopes downward toward th...
HOA Restrictions
NCGS 22B-20 prohibits HOAs from banning solar panels on single-family homes in Winston-Salem. HOAs may impose reasonable restrictions on location and appearance but cannot make solar economically infeasible. Statute applies to covenants recorded after 2008.
Solar Energy: Hoa Restrictions
Few RestrictionsN.C.G.S. 22B-20 (Deed restrictions and other agreements prohibiting solar collectors)
(a) The intent of the General Assembly is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare by encouraging the development and use of solar resources and by prohibiting deed restrictions, covenants, and other similar agreements that could have the ultimate effect of driving the costs of owning and maintaining a residence beyond the financial means of most owners. (b) Except as provided in subse...