Can I Build Solar Panels in Phoenix, AZ? (2026)
Find out if you can build a solar panels in Phoenix, AZ. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Yes, solar panels are permitted in Phoenix, AZ. A permit is required.
Solar panel installation in Phoenix, AZ is permitted and, for new construction, often required by state mandate. Residential solar installations require a building/electrical permit from the Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD). The permit process in Phoenix: Phoenix PDD electrical permit required. APS (Arizona Public Service) or SRP (Salt River Project) interconnection agreement required depending on service territory. Net metering available: APS offers Renewable Energy Credit program; SRP offers net metering with time-of-use export rates. SolarAPP+ available through Phoenix PDD for expedited permit approval.
Solar Panels Rules in Phoenix
Solar Panel Rules in Phoenix: Permit required: Yes — all solar installations require a permit. Thresholds: All solar installations. Permit fees: $100–$400. HOA restrictions: Arizona Revised Statutes Section 33-1816 prohibits HOAs from unreasonably prohibiting or restricting the installation of solar energy devices. HOAs may impose reasonable architectural requirements related to the placement, manner, and appearance of solar collectors, but cannot effectively prohibit solar installations. This is broader protection than most states.. Historic district note: Phoenix Historic Preservation Office reviews changes to designated Phoenix historic properties. Phoenix has several locally-designated historic districts including Coronado, Willo, F.Q. Story, and Encanto-Palmcroft. Solar panels on historic properties may require additional review.. Phoenix receives approximately 299 sunny days per year — one of the highest solar resource ratings in the US. Solar adoption is high due to excellent sun exposure, high electricity costs, and strong state HOA protections. Arizona has a long history of solar-friendly policy.
Costs & Fees
Solar permit fees in Phoenix: $100–$400.
Timeline
1-2 weeks
Next Steps
Next steps for installing solar panels in Phoenix: 1. Get quotes from licensed solar installers familiar with AZ requirements. 2. Installer will prepare permit application and system design documents. 3. Permit application submitted to the Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD). 4. Once permit approved, installation begins. Electrical inspection required at completion. 5. Apply for utility interconnection and net metering through your utility provider.
Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD)
Phone: (602) 262-7811
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/pdd
Online Permits: https://www.phoenix.gov/pdd/permits
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Phoenix property?
Yes. Arizona HB 2297 (effective September 2024) requires Phoenix to allow ADUs on single-family lots and removed the previous owner-occupancy requirement. Phoenix updated its local ordinance to comply. ADUs can be up to 50% of your primary dwelling floor area or 1,200 sqft (whichever is less). No additional parking is required. Side and rear setbacks cannot exceed 5 feet per state law.
What are the short-term rental rules in Phoenix?
Phoenix requires STR registration ($250/year). Arizona SB 1350 (2016) originally preempted cities from banning STRs outright, but SB 1168 (2022) gave cities back some regulatory authority including the ability to require registration, impose safety requirements, and penalize nuisance properties. Maximum occupancy is 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests. A local contact person must be designated.
Does Phoenix have a solar mandate?
No, Phoenix does not have a solar mandate for new construction. However, Arizona's strong HOA solar protection law (ARS 33-1816) means your HOA cannot prohibit solar installations. Phoenix receives approximately 299 sunny days per year, making it one of the best solar markets in the US. Building permits are required for all solar installations.
What zoning district is my Phoenix property in?
You can look up your Phoenix zoning at the Phoenix Planning and Development Department website using the interactive zoning map at phoenix.gov/pdd/zoning. Most established single-family neighborhoods are zoned R1-6, R1-8, or R1-10. RE-24 and RE-43 are large-lot estate zones. R-2 through R-5 are progressively denser multifamily zones.
Are Saguaro cacti protected in Phoenix?
Yes. Saguaro cacti are protected under Arizona law. You cannot remove, destroy, or relocate a Saguaro cactus without first obtaining a permit from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Violating this law can result in significant fines. If a Saguaro must be removed for construction, it must be relocated by a licensed cactus moving company with a valid permit.
Source: Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD) — Building Regulations. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source