Permits
Ground Mount Solar Permits in Texas
What permits you need, how long they take, and why your installer handles all of it.
The Short Version
Yes, ground mount solar requires permits. Your installer handles all of this. You sign some forms, they do the legwork.
Total permit timeline is typically 4-8 weeks. The physical installation takes 2-3 days once permits are approved.
Permits Required for Ground Mount Solar
Building/Structural Permit
Covers the ground-mounted racking structure and foundation. Required in most Texas jurisdictions for any permanent ground structure.
Electrical Permit
Covers the solar panels, inverter, wiring, and connection to your main electrical panel. Required everywhere.
Utility Interconnection
Agreement with your utility to connect the solar system to the grid. Required for net metering and any grid-tied system.
The Permit Process Step by Step
System Design & Engineering
Your installer creates detailed plans: equipment specs, structural calculations, electrical diagrams, and site layout. This package goes to the permit office.
Permit Application Submitted
Your installer submits applications to the building department, electrical inspector, and utility. You may need to sign authorization forms.
Review & Approval
The jurisdiction reviews plans for code compliance. They may request revisions. This is the waiting period—typically 2-4 weeks.
Installation
Once permits are approved, installation is scheduled. The actual work takes 2-3 days for most residential systems.
Inspections
The building and electrical inspector visit to verify the installation matches the approved plans. Your installer coordinates scheduling.
Utility Interconnection
The utility installs a new meter (if needed) and grants permission to operate. This is the final step before your system goes live.
Typical Timelines by Area
Permit timelines vary by jurisdiction. Here's what we typically see:
| Area | Building Permit | Electrical Permit | Utility Interconnection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travis County (Austin) | 2-3 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks (Austin Energy) |
| Williamson County | 2-4 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks |
| Collin County (DFW) | 2-3 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 3-4 weeks (Oncor) |
| Harris County (Houston) | 2-4 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 3-5 weeks (CenterPoint) |
| Bexar County (San Antonio) | 2-3 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks (CPS Energy) |
| Hill Country (rural) | 1-3 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks |
Timelines are estimates and can vary based on workload and season. Your installer will provide a more specific timeline for your location.
Common Permit Requirements
Setbacks
Ground mount systems typically must be set back from property lines:
- • Side/rear property lines: 5-15 feet typically
- • Front property line: Often must be behind the home
- • Structures: 3-5 feet from buildings
- • Septic systems: Usually 10+ feet
Height Restrictions
Most jurisdictions have height limits:
- • Typical limit: 8-15 feet maximum
- • HOA areas: Often below fence line (6 feet)
- • Most residential systems: 6-8 feet total height
Engineering Requirements
Structural and electrical plans must show:
- • Wind load calculations for your area
- • Foundation specifications for soil type
- • Electrical single-line diagram
- • Equipment specifications
Utility Requirements
For grid-connected systems:
- • Interconnection application
- • System size documentation
- • Automatic disconnect capability
- • Net metering agreement (if applicable)
Permit FAQ
Do I need to pull permits myself?
No. Your installer should handle all permitting as part of the project. This is standard practice. If an installer asks you to pull permits yourself, that's a red flag.
How long does the permit process take?
Typically 4-8 weeks total from application to approval. The actual installation only takes 2-3 days—most of the project timeline is permits and utility paperwork.
What if I live in an unincorporated area?
You'll work with the county instead of a city. Some rural areas have fewer requirements, but you'll still need electrical permits and utility interconnection approval.
Can permits be denied?
Permits are rarely denied if the system is designed properly and meets code. The most common issues are setback violations or structural concerns—a good installer designs around these.
Ready to Get Started?
We handle all permits as part of your project. Get a free assessment and see the timeline for your location.
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