Hartford, CT Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Hartford's accessory structure table (Figure 4.20-A) lists Solar - Building-Mounted under Accessory Renewable Energy Structures and marks it with the ◐ symbol in all 17 district columns, meaning "Permitted subject to Use-Specific Regulations." Section 4.20.1 B. adds that each listed accessory structure "is permitted by right in the districts in which it is listed, provided that it is developed utilizing any development standards detailed below." Rooftop solar therefore needs no special permit under the zoning regulations, but the standards in § 4.20.6 A. decide whether a design qualifies.

The definition covers any system affixed to or built into a principal or accessory building, including photovoltaic or hot water systems contained in roofing materials, windows, skylights and awnings. On quantity, the total square footage cannot exceed the total area of roof surface of the structure that carries the system. On profile, systems should sit less than 4 inches from the roof surface whenever possible. On height, a system cannot extend beyond 3 feet parallel to the roof surface of a pitched roof or beyond 4 feet on a flat roof, and cannot rise more than 5 feet above the highest peak of a pitched roof.

Placement is open: the section allows systems on principal and accessory structures, on any roof face, and on side and rear building facades. A system can project laterally from a facade or roof edge up to 3.5 feet, and it can reach into an interior side or interior rear setback as long as it stays at least 5 feet from the interior side or interior rear property line. Signage or writing of any kind is barred from every part of the system, apart from required manufacturer plates and safety labeling.

Permit fees for building, heating, plumbing, refrigeration, sprinkler, electrical and elevator permits are set by the Court of Common Council by resolution and published by the Division of Licenses and Inspections under Municipal Code § 9-15(a).