Rock Hill, SC Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

6(C) treats ground-mounted solar as a fallback, not a first option: it's allowed only when putting panels on the roof isn't practicable due to efficiency or aesthetics. Where it is allowed, the installation must sit as close to the ground as practicable and can never be taller than the principal structure. Residential ground-mounted arrays must be located to the rear of the house and screened from public-street view; the mounting framework itself must be neutral in color or screened from the street and from neighboring residential properties.

1(C)(4), ground-mounted solar 6 feet tall or shorter can encroach up to 2 feet into a required side or rear setback, but installations taller than 6 feet may not encroach into the setback at all unless the Zoning Board of Appeals grants a variance. 11 requires solar installations visible from the street to either use building-integrated components, such as solar shingles, that aren't readily evident, or to be mounted to match the shape, proportions and slope of the roof, the same standard applied to vents, pipes, antennas and satellite dishes.