Solar Energy in Pennsylvania (2026)

11 rules on the books across Pennsylvania, 11 cities and counties. Select a rule to read the full details.

Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions

Panel Permits

Permits required for installing rooftop or ground-mounted solar panels, including electrical inspections and interconnection approvals.

Allentown allows solar panels as an accessory use on any lot in any zone under § 660-56, lets building-mounted panels…

Erie treats solar panels as an accessory use in every zoning district. Freestanding panels are limited to rear and side…

Accessory rooftop or ground-mounted solar systems are a by-right use in every Franklin Township zoning district under…

In Lower Paxton Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, any accessory solar-energy facility needs zoning approval…

In Millcreek Township, Erie County, Pennsylvania, a Solar Energy System needs a Zoning Permit for installation…

Philadelphia requires a construction permit from Licenses and Inspections before installing or modifying any solar…

Solar panels are allowed as an accessory use in every Pottstown zoning district, but only after the Zoning Officer…

Reading requires a zoning permit before installing any solar energy system, with an application covering system…

Scranton requires a permit from the Zoning Officer before any solar energy system is built, covering roof-mounted and…

Bensalem Township permits solar energy systems in every zoning district, either attached to a structure or…

Pittsburgh's Zoning Code lists solar energy systems as a by-right accessory use in every zoning district, and…