• Solar Permits
Upper Darby Township requires permits for the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to ensure that all systems are installed in accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), as adopted under Act 45, applicable Township ordinances, and nationally recognized safety standards.
It is unlawful to install or modify a solar energy system without first obtaining all required permits and approvals.
Solar permits help protect property owners, occupants, and the public by ensuring that systems are safely installed, structurally sound, properly interconnected, and compliant with applicable codes.
Permit Requirements (Per State Law, Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code)
In accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), as adopted under Act 45 and enforced by Upper Darby Township, permits are required prior to the commencement of regulated solar installation work.
Commercial Buildings (All buildings other than single-family and two-family dwellings):
Pursuant to 34 Pa. Code § 403.42(a), an owner or authorized agent who intends to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, or replace a solar photovoltaic system or associated equipment regulated by the Uniform Construction Code—shall first apply to the Building Code Official and obtain the required permits.
Residential Buildings (Single-Family Dwellings and Two-Family Dwellings):
Pursuant to 34 Pa. Code § 403.62(a), an owner or authorized agent who intends to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, or replace a solar photovoltaic system or associated equipment regulated by the Uniform Construction Code—shall first apply to the Building Code Official and obtain the required permits.
Local Amendments and Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Approvals (2005)
As part of the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code adoption process, Upper Darby Township completed the required municipal election and approval process with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry in 2005.
As a result of that process, the Township has adopted the following requirements:
Residential Accessory Structures (120 sq. ft. or more):
A UCC permit is required for all residential utility and miscellaneous use structures with a building area of 120 square feet or greater.
Residential Accessory Structures (Less than 120 sq. ft.):
A building permit is required for residential utility and miscellaneous use structures less than 120 square feet when such structures contain utilities, including solar or electrical systems.
Residential Alterations and Repairs:
A UCC permit is required for all residential alterations and repairs, including solar system installations, except for those specifically excluded under Chapter 1 of the International Residential Code (IRC), as adopted by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
These requirements are enforced in addition to all applicable provisions of the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code and Township ordinances.
What is Solar Energy
Solar energy is a clean, renewable energy source that converts sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) panels.
Solar PV systems:
• Generate electricity from sunlight
• Reduce energy costs over time
• Increase property value
• Reduce environmental impacts and air pollution
• Provide resilience during power disruptions (when paired with battery storage systems)
Who May Apply for and Perform Work Under a Solar Permit
Solar permits may only be applied for and work may only be performed by individuals or entities who are properly authorized, qualified, and licensed in accordance with State law and Township regulations.
Permits may be obtained by Solar Contractors / Electrical Contractors experienced in photovoltaic system installation who are properly licensed and meet all Township and State requirements.
Licensing Requirements (State and Township Law)
In accordance with State law and Township regulations:
Any individual or entity performing fire protection system work as a contractor must obtain and maintain all required licenses, registrations, and approvals from both the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Upper Darby Township.
Failure to comply with licensing requirements may result in:
- Permit denial or revocation
- Stop work orders
- Citations and fines
- Legal enforcement action
Permits Required for Solar Installations
Solar PV installations typically require multiple permits depending on the scope of the project.
These may include:
- Building Permit (for structural mounting and roof attachments)
- Electrical Permit (for wiring, interconnection, and equipment)
- Zoning Approval (as applicable)
Additional approvals may be required depending on the property and installation type.
When a Solar Permit is Required
A permit is required for, but not limited to, the following:
- Installation of new solar PV systems
- Expansion or modification of existing solar systems
- Installation of battery storage systems
- Structural modifications for panel mounting
- Electrical interconnection to the building or utility system
Any work involving solar systems regulated by the UCC requires permits.
Zoning Requirements
Solar PV systems are generally considered permitted accessory uses under the Township Zoning Code; however:
- Systems must comply with zoning regulations
- Placement, height, and setbacks may apply
- Ground-mounted systems may have additional requirements
Applicants should verify zoning requirements prior to submitting an application.
Work That May Not Require a Permit
Certain minor work may not require a permit; however, such exemptions are limited, narrowly defined, and subject to determination by the Township.
Even if a permit is not required:
- All work must comply with applicable codes
- Other permits or approvals may still be required
The Township reserves the sole authority to determine whether a permit is required. Applicants are strongly encouraged to verify requirements prior to starting any work.
Before You Apply
Before submitting a permit application, applicants should:
- Confirm system design and layout
- Verify structural capacity of the roof (if applicable)
- Determine electrical service capacity
- Confirm zoning compliance
- Confirm contractor licensing requirements
- Ensure all required documents are prepared
Incomplete submissions will delay review.
Application Requirements
A complete solar permit application typically includes:
- Completed permit application form(s)
- Site plan showing building and system location
- Roof plan or mounting details (for roof-mounted systems)
- Electrical one-line diagrams
- Equipment specifications (panels, inverters, racking systems)
- Structural details or engineering (if required)
- Manufacturer cut sheets
Additional documentation may be required depending on the project.
Applicant’s Guide to a Photovoltaic Electrical Power System (Solar Panels)
Residential Solar PV Systems
Residential solar installations may be submitted using the Township’s combined application:
Combined Residential Solar Application
This application is intended to streamline the permitting process for residential projects.
Commercial Solar PV Systems
Commercial or non-residential solar projects typically require separate applications, including:
- Electrical Permit Application
- Building Permit Application
Additional documentation and plan review requirements will apply based on project size and complexity.
Plan Review and Approval
Solar permit applications are reviewed to ensure compliance with:
- Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- International Building Code (IBC) / Residential Code (IRC)
- Applicable Township ordinances
Once approved, permits will be issued.
Work may not begin until permits are issued.
Inspections
Solar installations are subject to inspection to verify compliance with approved plans and codes.
Inspections may include:
- Mounting and structural installation
- Electrical system inspection
- Grounding and bonding verification
- Final inspection
All required inspections must be approved prior to system activation.
Fees and Payments
Permit fees are established in accordance with the Township Fee Schedule.
Solar permit fees may vary depending on the type of project.
Payments may be made:
- Online
- By check or money order
Cash is not accepted.
Fees are subject to change. Please contact the Township to verify the most current fee schedule.
SolSmart Program
Upper Darby Township participates in SolSmart, a national program that recognizes municipalities that foster the development of local solar markets.
Through SolSmart, the Township is working to:
- Streamline the solar permitting process
- Reduce unnecessary barriers
- Encourage responsible solar development
- Support clean energy initiatives
This effort reflects the Township’s commitment to sustainability, economic growth, and environmental responsibility.
Upper Darby Solar Energy Map
This map shows the progression of Solar Power in Upper Darby.
Funding and Incentives
Various programs may be available to support solar installation:
State Programs
Alternative and Clean Energy Program (ACE)
Federal Programs
Federal tax incentives may be available for eligible solar installations
Additional Resources
The Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE) provides current information on available programs and incentives
Applicants are encouraged to research incentives prior to installation.
Important Reminders
- A permit is required before installing a solar system
- Multiple permits may be required (building and electrical)
- All work must comply with applicable codes
- Inspections are required prior to system activation
- The Township reserves the right to require permits, inspections, or additional documentation as necessary to ensure compliance
- Working without a permit may result in stop work orders, citations, and enforcement action
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to install solar panels?
Yes. Solar installations require permits.
Do I need both building and electrical permits?
Yes. Most solar systems require both.
Will my system be inspected?
Yes. Inspections are required prior to final approval.
Contact the Buildings Division
For questions regarding solar permits, please contact the Buildings Division.
Email: LI@UpperDarby.org
Phone: 610-734-7613
Residents may also submit inquiries or report concerns through the Township One Center.
To submit a concern, email One@UpperDarby.org or call the One Center Request Line at 610-734-7625.
