Pinellas County, FL Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

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 that is least visible from streets. When technically practical, tilt-mounted solar panels should be installed parallel to the roofline to minimize their visual impact.c.Highly-reflective solar collection surfaces shall be oriented away from neighboring windows. If there is evidence that glare will be casted directly onto neighboring windows or create a safety concern for vehicles in a street, then the use of a non-reflective surface or screening may be required as an alternative finish.(4)Solar energy systems may be affixed to any building on the site including but not limited to: the principal structure, accessory buildings, and/or carports.(5)New technologies in solar energy systems that incorporate energy collection cells as part of the structure's building materials and do not create excessive glare may be exempt from the design restrictions of this section. (Ord. No. 18-36, § 3(Att. B), 10-23-18; Ord. No. 21-21, § 3(Exh. A), 8-24-21)