Many people may not be aware that development approval is required for installation of solar panels on properties within the Burra State Heritage Area or are listed as a State Heritage Place.

Many installers of solar panels believe that the installation of solar panels is exempt for requiring development approvals on all properties, but unfortunately don’t understand that this exemption does not apply to the State Heritage Area in Burra.  The result of this misunderstanding is solar panels being installed without approval that could potentially impact the heritage character of a building.

Council has prepared an information brochure on the installation of solar panels, which can be sourced at the Council office or online Solar-Panels-Brochure. The information brochure contains guidelines regarding the siting of solar panels and the details required for a development application.

A development application must be submitted if you are intending to install solar panels on a State Heritage Place or in Burra State Heritage Area.  Assessment of the application will consider the potential impacts to the individual building, as well as potential cumulative effects in the area, to avoid progressive adverse impacts to the area’s historic character.

Click here for more information on lodging an application.