You may need a Planning Permit, a Building Permit or both to install solar panels. You may also need other permits, depending on your situation.
To help you work out which permits you need, start at Step 1 and answer the questions one at a time.
If you need help at any step, email [email protected] or call (03) 9278 4888 and ask for our:
Search for your property on the Department of Transport and Planning's Search for a planning property report page to find out if your property is:
If your site is on the Victorian Heritage Register, check with Heritage Victoria on how to apply for their approval for works on your property. You do not need a Planning Permit from us, but you may need a Building Permit (go to Step 4 to check).
If your site is covered by a Heritage Overlay but not on the Victorian Heritage Register, you may need a Planning Permit to install solar panels on your property.
If your proposed solar panels and supporting equipment can be seen from a street (other than a lane) or public park, you need a Planning Permit.
Read our Guide to solar panels in a Heritage Overlay page for guidance on where and how solar panels should be installed.
If you need a Planning Permit only to install solar panels and aren't proposing any other changes to the outside of your house (such as an extension), we can fast-track your application through VicSmart within 10 working days.
If you install solar panels without receiving our permission, you may have committed an offence and be liable for certain penalties.
Check whether your proposed panels will be fixed directly to the roof or whether you'll need to add extra supporting mechanisms.
Making changes to the structure of your roof to support solar panels can affect the soundness of the building and add additional load to the roof. It's important to make sure your solar panels won't have a negative impact on your building.
If your solar panels are on a raised or protruding frame or structure, you will likely need a Building Permit.
