Local Guide · Residential solar installers · Houston, TX
What does it take to go solar in Houston?
Houston requires a solar panel permit with inspection, and offers SolarAPP+ for registered installers. Here is how permitting works and what Texas law adds.
Houston requires a solar panel permit, issued under the state electricians law and the city's electrical code, with an inspection. Licensed contractors registered with SolarAPP+ and the city can use that NREL tool for faster residential permits. The seller must also be registered with TDLR.
Key facts for Houston, TX
- Houston's solar panel permit lists Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1305, the electricians law, and Houston Electrical Code Section 301 as its authority.
- Houston requires an inspection for solar panel permits, and plan review may be required depending on the scope of work.
- The City of Houston partnered with NREL to offer SolarAPP+, plan review software for rooftop solar permits.
- Houston allows licensed contractors registered as installers with SolarAPP+ and the city to use the tool.
- Texas requires residential solar retailers and salespersons to be registered with TDLR as of September 1, 2026.
- The PUC of Texas says the homeowner or installer must register a solar system with the local utility that manages the poles and wires.
What permit does Houston require?
The Houston Permitting Center issues a solar panel permit. Its authority is the Texas electricians law, Occupations Code Chapter 1305, and Section 301 of the Houston Electrical Code. Plan review may be required depending on the scope of work, and an inspection is required.
What is SolarAPP+?
Houston partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory to offer SolarAPP+, software that automates plan review for rooftop solar. The city tested it for Houston's local conditions. Licensed contractors registered as installers with SolarAPP+ and the city can use it.
Ask your installer whether it uses SolarAPP+ and who will schedule the inspection.
What should Houston homeowners check before signing?
Check the seller's TDLR registration and the electrical contractor's license. Then ask your electric provider for its buyback terms. The PUC of Texas says buyback rates are part of your contract with your provider and are usually lower than retail rates.
How to choose a provider in Houston, TX
- Search the solar retailer and salesperson on TDLR's license search.
- Check the electrical contractor named in the contract.
- Ask your utility or retail provider for its buyback terms in writing.
- Confirm who gets the city permit and the utility's approval.
- Note the last day to cancel in the contract.
- Check your roof's age and shade before signing.
Questions people ask
Do I need a permit for solar panels in Houston?
Yes. The Houston Permitting Center issues a solar panel permit, and an inspection is required.
What is SolarAPP+ in Houston?
A plan review tool from NREL that Houston offers for rooftop solar. Licensed contractors registered with SolarAPP+ and the city can use it.
Who must be licensed for a Houston solar job?
The installation must be done by a licensed electrical contractor, and the seller and salesperson must be registered with TDLR.
Who registers my system with the utility?
The PUC says the homeowner or the installer must register it with the local utility that manages the poles and wires. Ask which one will do it.
Will my provider pay retail for my solar power?
Usually not. The PUC says buyback rates are usually lower than retail. Shop for a plan with a buyback rate if you can.
Sources
This guide was written by our editorial team from the public sources listed above. It is general information, not legal advice; confirm licensing and terms directly with any provider.
