Travis County, TX Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit
- Electrical required
- NEC
- 2017 adopted
- AE VoS
- ~9.7 cents/kWh
- PEC
- Net metering retail
Summary
Rooftop solar installations in unincorporated Travis County require an electrical permit from Development Services (typical fee $150-250) and must comply with 2017 National Electrical Code as adopted. Structural engineering review required if panels add over 5 PSF to existing roof. Austin Energy and Pedernales Electric Cooperative both offer solar rebates and net metering.
Sec. 202.010. REGULATION OF SOLAR ENERGY DEVICES. (a) In this section:(1) "Development period" means a period stated in a declaration during which a declarant reserves:(A) a right to facilitate the development, construction, and marketing of the subdivision; and(B) a right to direct the size, shape, and composition of the subdivision.(2) "Solar energy device" has the meaning assigned by Section 171.107, Tax Code. The term includes a solar roof tile.(b) Except as otherwise provided by Subsection (d), a property owners' association may not include or enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument that prohibits or restricts a property owner from installing a solar energy device.(c) A provision that violates Subsection (b) is void.
Full Breakdown
Austin Energy Value of Solar tariff pays approximately 9.7 cents/kWh for residential generation. PEC offers simple net metering at retail rate. Interconnection agreement required before system activation. Ground-mount systems larger than 200 sf trigger building permit review. Battery storage systems require separate permit under 2017 NEC 706.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted solar installation: $500 per day plus mandatory electrical inspection. Unsafe installations red-tagged and de-energized. Fire risk from improper rapid shutdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for rooftop solar in Travis County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Travis County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Travis County to another location·View the Texas solar energy overview
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