§ 15-517 Alternative energy systems: Solar.
Current through 2026-07-17. Source: City of Balt., Md., Ord. 26-129. Published by the Baltimore City Department of Legislative Reference.
Balt., Md., Code art. 32, § 15-517 (2026)
§ 15-517 Alternative energy systems: Solar.LinkCopy Citation
(a)Building permit requirements.
Building permit applications for solar alternative energy systems must be accompanied by a line drawing of the electrical components in sufficient detail to allow for a determination that the manner of the installation conforms to all <cite data-path="|building-codes|III">electrical code</cite>s.
(b)Height, setback limitations – In general.
(1)
Solar alternative energy systems must be installed to rise no more than 42 inches from a roof surface.
(2)
A roof-mounted solar alternative energy system is considered a permitted height exception and is not subject to the building height limitations of the district.
(3)
In the case of a flat roof, solar alternative energy systems must be setback 3 feet from the front facade.
(c)Height, yard, and setback limitations – Ground-mounted.
(1)
A ground-mounted solar alternative energy system is permitted in all yards and must be at least 3 feet from any lot line.
(2)
Ground-mounted solar alternative systems are subject to the following height limitations:
(i)
for a commercial alternative energy system, the system may not exceed 15 feet in height; and
(ii)
for a community-based or private alternative energy system:
(A)
a system located in a side or rear yard may not exceed 10 feet in height; and
(B)
a system located in a front yard may not exceed 30 inches in height.
(d)Screening and safety – Ground-mounted.
All ground-mounted systems must:
(1)
be screened from public view in accordance with the requirements of the Baltimore City Landscape Manual; and
(2)
display warning signs indicating voltage and dangers.
History: Ord. 16-581
History: Ord. 17-015