York County, VA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Section 24.1-275 governs accessory solar energy facilities serving the property on which they sit. Ground-mounted systems cannot exceed a cumulative area larger than the footprint of the principal structure on the property, and cannot exceed twenty feet in height or the height of the principal structure, whichever is less. Roof- or building-mounted equipment cannot extend above the ridgeline of the building it is attached to. Ground-mounted facilities are barred from front and side yards entirely and must otherwise meet the general accessory-structure location, height and size standards of § 24.1-273.

A building permit is mandatory under § 24.1-275(f), and the application must include certificates of design compliance from the equipment manufacturer's certifying organization plus certification by an engineer registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Applications must also include scaled horizontal and vertical elevation drawings showing the facility's location on the building or property, including property lines and setback lines, and documentation certified by a professional engineer attesting that the system is sited and designed to minimize glare. Solar facilities must also comply with the county's noise ordinance, § 16-19. The Building Official reviews and issues the permit; the zoning administrator confirms siting compliance.