Solar Energy in Pennsylvania (2026)
8 rules on the books across Pennsylvania, 8 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
Some RestrictionsAllentown allows solar panels as an accessory use on any lot in any zone under § 660-56, lets building-mounted panels…
Read full rule →Erie
Some RestrictionsErie treats solar panels as an accessory use in every zoning district. Freestanding panels are limited to rear and side…
Read full rule →Franklin Township
Some RestrictionsAccessory rooftop or ground-mounted solar systems are a by-right use in every Franklin Township zoning district under…
Read full rule →Philadelphia
Some RestrictionsPhiladelphia requires a construction permit from Licenses and Inspections before installing or modifying any solar…
Read full rule →Pottstown
Some RestrictionsSolar panels are allowed as an accessory use in every Pottstown zoning district, but only after the Zoning Officer…
Read full rule →Reading
Some RestrictionsReading requires a zoning permit before installing any solar energy system, with an application covering system…
Read full rule →Scranton
Some RestrictionsScranton requires a permit from the Zoning Officer before any solar energy system is built, covering roof-mounted and…
Read full rule →Pittsburgh
Few RestrictionsPittsburgh's Zoning Code lists solar energy systems as a by-right accessory use in every zoning district, and…
Read full rule →