Briar CDP (part), Tarrant County, Texas Solar Energy: Panel Permits Rules (2026)

Solar photovoltaic installations in unincorporated Tarrant County require an electrical permit issued by Tarrant County Public Works under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233 and the adopted National Electrical Code (NEC). Work must be performed or supervised by a Texas-licensed electrical contractor under Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1305 and rules by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Permit requirements typically include a site plan showing panel layout, electrical one-line diagram, inverter and interconnection details, structural certification that the roof or ground-mount rack can support the added load (for retrofits, a Texas-licensed engineer letter is commonly required), and evidence of utility interconnection application. Most Tarrant County homes are served by Oncor Electric Delivery; rural areas may be served by Tri-County Electric Cooperative or United Cooperative Services. Interconnection follows the utility's approved tariff and Texas Public Utility Commission rules (PUC Substantive Rule 25.211 for distributed generation 10 MW or less). Net metering is available through many retail electric providers in the deregulated market via surplus buyback plans. In incorporated cities (Fort Worth, Arlington, Grapevine, Keller, Southlake, Mansfield, Euless, etc.) municipal permit requirements apply and typically include building, electrical, and sometimes a separate solar permit. HOA approvals may also be required but cannot prohibit solar under TX Property Code 202.007.