# § 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.

## § 15-517 Alternative energy systems: Solar.

Balt., Md., Code art. 32, § 15-517 (2026)

(a) 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)

  (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)

  (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) 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*