Bensalem, PA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Sec. 232-60 through 232-64 of the Bensalem Township Zoning Ordinance, added by Ord. No. 2010-08, create an overlay of standards for solar energy systems and larger solar electric facilities. Sec. 232-63 permits placement of solar energy systems for providing energy in all zoning districts, either as part of a structure or as an independent structure, and permits use of property for a solar electric facility in all zoning districts as well. Sec. 232-64's development requirements then apply district standards to those systems: solar energy systems must meet the setback, building area, impervious surface coverage and height limitations of the district where they sit, and a freestanding system in a residential district is treated as an accessory structure under Sec.

232-6 and Sec. 232-583(a). Systems and any access road may extend into required buffer yards if doing so minimizes clearing of trees or other natural features, and a system on a screw-type racking system requiring no cut or fill is not treated as a disturbance to natural steep slopes. All systems must comply with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code and the National Electric Code. Two siting rules matter most for homeowners: a system cannot extend beyond the front facade of the primary building, and no solar energy system is permitted in the front yard of the parcel at all.

Systems must also be designed and located to minimize glare toward an adjoining property, and the Township will not participate in disputes over a system's blockage or interference by another property.