Solar Energy in Pinellas County, FL (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 7 cities in Pinellas County, Florida.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Pinellas County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Panel Permits

Solar energy systems are an allowed accessory use throughout unincorporated Pinellas County, but they must meet district lot-size and setback rules, plus extra height and glare standards in residential zones.

Pinellas County Solar Panel Permit Rule

Some Restrictions

Pinellas County Code of Ordinances § 138-3321(c)(1)-(3)a

Solar energy systems shall be an allowed accessory use.(2)The system shall comply with district lot size and setbacks.(3)In residential districts, the following standards shall apply to solar energy systems:a.Ground mounted solar panels are limited to a maximum height of 14 feet.b.Where technically feasible, highly-reflective, roof-mounted solar energy systems shall be installed in a location t...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

HOA Restrictions

Florida Statute 163.04 preempts HOAs in Pinellas County from prohibiting solar collectors, allowing only narrow placement controls within 45 degrees of due south that do not impair system performance.

Pinellas County HOA Solar Restrictions Preempted by Florida Law

Few Restrictions

Fla. Stat. § 163.04 (Energy Devices Based on Renewable Resources)

163.04 Energy devices based on renewable resources. - (1) Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter or other provision of general or special law, the adoption of an ordinance by a governing body, as those terms are defined in this chapter, which prohibits or has the effect of prohibiting the installation of solar collectors, clotheslines, or other energy devices based on renewable resources...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗