Solar Energy in Tennessee (2026)
11 rules on the books across Tennessee, 9 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
Some RestrictionsChattanooga's zoning code lets solar panels mount on any roof or wall, or stand freestanding in the rear yard only…
Read full rule →Clarksville
Some RestrictionsClarksville permits solar panels as a utility accessory use subject to setbacks. The distinctive local requirement is…
Read full rule →Collierville
Some RestrictionsIn the Town of Collierville, § 151.025(D)(21) governs residential solar panels as an ancillary use. Ground-mounted…
Read full rule →Hendersonville
Some RestrictionsHendersonville's Zoning Ordinance treats solar panels as an accessory use, not a special exception, but still requires…
Read full rule →Knoxville
Some RestrictionsKnoxville lets homeowners mount solar panels on roofs or walls or install freestanding arrays, capping roof-mounted…
Read full rule →Memphis
Some RestrictionsThe Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code lets homeowners install rooftop solar as an accessory use by…
Read full rule →Nashville
Some RestrictionsMetro Nashville has no solar-specific ordinance. Installing panels requires a standard electrical permit before hookup…
Read full rule →Williamson County
Light RestrictionsWilliamson County lets homeowners attach solar panels to a house or accessory structure without a Zoning Certificate…
Read full rule →HOA Restrictions
State and local laws that limit what HOAs can restrict when it comes to solar panel installation, placement, and appearance.
Tennessee: statewide
StatewideSome RestrictionsTennessee has no solar-access law overriding HOA covenants, so a homeowners association may restrict or prohibit…
Read full rule →Clarksville
Heavy RestrictionsTennessee has no solar access law that overrides private covenants. The Solar Access Law of 1979 only enables voluntary…
Read full rule →Sumner County
Some RestrictionsTennessee has no strong solar-rights law voiding HOA bans. In Sumner County's lake subdivisions, an HOA may restrict or…
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