Solar Energy in Tennessee (2026)

10 rules on the books across Tennessee, 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.

Chattanooga's zoning code lets solar panels mount on any roof or wall, or stand freestanding in the rear yard only…

Clarksville permits solar panels as a utility accessory use subject to setbacks. The distinctive local requirement is…

Hendersonville's Zoning Ordinance treats solar panels as an accessory use, not a special exception, but still requires…

Knoxville lets homeowners mount solar panels on roofs or walls or install freestanding arrays, capping roof-mounted…

The Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code lets homeowners install rooftop solar as an accessory use by…

Metro Nashville has no solar-specific ordinance. Installing panels requires a standard electrical permit before hookup…

Williamson County lets homeowners attach solar panels to a house or accessory structure without a Zoning Certificate…

State and local laws that limit what HOAs can restrict when it comes to solar panel installation, placement, and appearance.

Tennessee has no solar-access law overriding HOA covenants, so a homeowners association may restrict or prohibit…

Tennessee has no solar access law that overrides private covenants. The Solar Access Law of 1979 only enables voluntary…

Tennessee has no strong solar-rights law voiding HOA bans. In Sumner County's lake subdivisions, an HOA may restrict or…