Solar Panel Rules in Memphis, TN (2026)
Solar panel installation rules, mandate status, HOA restrictions, and permit process for Memphis, TN.
Memphis, TN does not currently have a solar installation mandate. Solar panels are a permitted use on residential and commercial properties subject to standard building permit requirements. Property owners in Memphis must obtain a permit before installing solar panels. HOA restrictions on solar are limited by state law. Memphis offers permit review for residential solar installations. Below you will find the current solar mandate status, HOA rules, permit process, and any historic district restrictions that apply to solar installations in Memphis.
Solar Mandate Status
No Solar Mandate in Memphis: Memphis does not currently have a solar installation mandate for new or existing construction. Installing solar is voluntary and subject to permit requirements. Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) may apply — consult a tax professional for current incentive information. Memphis's MLGW is one of the few remaining combined municipal utilities in the US (providing electricity, natural gas, and water). This unique structure means all utility interconnection goes through a single municipal entity. TVA's policies on distributed generation affect Memphis solar more than state policy.
HOA Restrictions
HOA Restrictions on Solar in Memphis: Tennessee does not have a comprehensive state law protecting solar from HOA restrictions. Memphis area HOAs vary widely — some have restrictive covenants regarding roof modifications and visible equipment. Older Memphis neighborhoods (particularly Midtown and East Memphis) have mixed HOA coverage. Review governing documents before installation.
Permit Process
Permit Process in Memphis: Memphis electrical permit required. MLGW (Memphis Light, Gas, and Water) interconnection agreement required for grid-tied systems. MLGW distributes power from TVA — TVA's Green Power Providers program applies for net metering-equivalent credits. Memphis receives approximately 4.7 peak sun hours/day — moderate solar resource. Tennessee does not have a state solar mandate.
Historic District Considerations
Historic District Considerations in Memphis: Memphis has significant historic resources in Midtown, South Main Arts District, and Cooper-Young. Memphis Landmarks Commission and State Historic Preservation Office review changes to listed properties. Historic neighborhoods with active Historic Overlay protections may require review for visible roof-mounted solar. If your property is located in a historic district, contact the Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development before designing your solar system — placement restrictions may affect system output.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Memphis planning differ from Nashville's consolidated metro government?
Memphis and Shelby County have a coordinated but not fully consolidated planning structure. The Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development handles planning for both the city and county through a shared Unified Development Code (UDC), but Memphis and Shelby County remain separate governments with separate taxation and services. Nashville (Metro Nashville-Davidson County) is a fully consolidated city-county government. For permitting purposes in Memphis city limits, you work with the Memphis Division of Planning and Development.
Can I build an ADU on my Memphis property?
Yes. Memphis allows accessory dwelling units under the Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code. Maximum size is typically 900 sqft in standard residential zones. You'll need a building permit from the Division of Planning and Development. Tennessee has no statewide ADU law — Memphis rules govern. No owner-occupancy requirement. MLGW connection fees apply if the ADU has independent utility service.
What is MLGW and how does it affect permits?
MLGW (Memphis Light, Gas, and Water) is a combined municipal utility providing electricity, natural gas, and water service to Memphis and surrounding areas. It is one of the few remaining combined utilities in the US. For solar installations, MLGW interconnection is required. MLGW distributes TVA power — TVA's Green Power Providers program governs net metering-equivalent credits. For new construction or ADUs, MLGW connection fees apply.
Are there historic preservation requirements in my Memphis neighborhood?
Memphis has significant historic resources including Beale Street (blues heritage), Victorian Village, and several Midtown neighborhoods. If your property is a contributing structure in a designated historic district, the Memphis Landmarks Commission may require a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior modifications. Check the Division of Planning and Development website or contact them to determine your property's historic status.
Is Memphis in a flood zone?
Many Memphis properties near the Mississippi River and Wolf River are in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. The 2011 Mississippi River flood reached record levels in Memphis. Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) for your property's designation. Properties in SFHA require flood insurance with federally-backed mortgages. Contact the Memphis stormwater management program for more information.
Source: Memphis Building Department — Solar Panel Permits. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source