Prince William County Provides Property Owners New Residential Solar Typical Plans

To encourage more ‘clean energy’, Prince William County is making available to the public a complete new set of standardized plans that can be used for solar installation, effective September 1, 2023. Specifically, there are three Typical Solar Energy Systems Plans: Roof Mounted Solar Panels Structural Plan; Small, Single Inverter System Plan; and a Small, Micro Inverter/AC System Plan.

These latest Residential Solar standardized plans are designed by professional experts, free of charge, and support homeowners’ interest in solar energy and roof-top safety. By using standard plans for home solar installation residents will save time and money during the permitting process. The design details in these documents apply to residential, single dwelling homes only. Construction cannot deviate from the details unless prior approval is received from the county.

“Thanks to the Prince William County Board of Supervisors approval to waive residential solar permitting and processing fees starting in September, solar panel installations for homeowners are now easier and less expensive,” shared Mandi Spina, acting director, Department of Development Services.

“Typical Plans provide residents with the option to build solar installations on their property using a standardized design, reducing the need to hire a professional engineer, if the plans are used exactly as approved,” said Eric Mays, Prince William County Building Official. Starting in September, applicants save on Prince William County reduced review fees and review time needed for obtaining building permits for solar installations.

“We are committed to building and life safety by delivering the highest-level of customer service before construction even begins, which ensures buildings are to code and delivers peace of mind.” added Spina.

The first step to going solar is assessing whether your home is a good candidate. To take the guesswork out of going solar, Prince William County has partnered with the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP). Also check with your homeowner’s association to see if there are any rules regarding solar panel installation and placement.

Prince William County also offers other benefits for homeowners, such as waived permit fees, tax exemptions on solar equipment and links to the Department of Energy’s Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar and federal solar tax credits. Building Development resources can also help you find out how to get a residential solar permit, how to hire a contractor, learn about the inspection process and much more.

If you have questions, please visit: www.pwcva.gov/residentialsolar, email: [email protected], or call (703) 792-6930.