Increasing the number of properties in Stonnington with solar power is critical to achieving net zero community emissions and supporting a greener electricity grid.
The City of Stonnington encourages the installation of solar panels, including on heritage homes. If your property is in a Heritage Overlay, there are considerations to make sure panels don’t detract from the character of your home or the precinct.
With good placement, you can help to preserve Stonnington’s heritage values and enjoy all the benefits of renewable energy.
Solar Victoria has useful information on installing solar on heritage-listed properties.
Do I need a planning permit to install solar panels?
You do not need a planning permit if your solar panels will not be visible from the street (other than a laneway) or park – even if your property is in a Heritage Overlay.
You need a planning permit if your solar panels will be visible from the street, or an adjoining laneway or park. We use VicSmart, a fast-track planning permit process for straightforward applications.
Check if you qualify for VicSmart
The VicSmart process usually takes 10 business days once your application is complete.
If you are unsure whether you are in a Heritage Overlay, contact our Statutory Planning team on 03 8290 3329 or visit our zones and overlays map.
Preferred locations for solar panels
To reduce visual impact on heritage character, consider installing solar panels on outbuildings such as garages, carports, pergolas, sheds or newer extensions.
You can also conceal solar panels by placing them on side roofs, in internal valleys, or behind chimneys, parapets or rooflines. Split arrays that spread panels across side elevations rather than concentrating on one visible roof surface.
Tip: panels do not need to face north to be effective. Many orientations can still provide excellent solar generation. Discuss the best placement for your home with your solar installer.
In this image, the placement of solar panels compromises heritage character.
In these images, the placement of solar panels minimises visual impact.
Placement and design guidance
When planning your system:
- discuss all possible locations with your solar installer
- balance energy performance with heritage considerations
- ask your installer to explain in writing why alternatives aren’t suitable for your property (if panels cannot be concealed)
- contact our Statutory Planning team for pre-application advice.
As a Stonnington resident, you can also access the Solar Savers program. It offers independent advice, connects you with installers who understand heritage requirements, and helps you access government rebates.
Applying for a planning permit
If your panels will be visible from the street (other than a laneway) or park, you can apply online via VicSmart.
You will need the following:
- recent Copy of Title (searched within 30 days, including the title plan/diagram and a copy of any covenant/restriction)
- written summary of your proposal
- simple site plan showing the proposed panel location
- elevation drawings showing how the proposed panels will appear from the street and sides of your property
- current photographs of your property taken from the street
- details of panel dimensions, materials, colours, finishes and fixing methods.
Note: An application fee applies. Please visit the VicSmart website for more information.
Preparing your documents
Site plans
Show the whole property, with north point, boundaries, existing conditions and the proposed panel locations. Include panel size, distance to boundaries, and whether panels are flush or angled.
Example
Elevation drawings
Show how your home will look with the panels in place. Include:
- views from the street (including the streetscape), sides and rear
- accurate measurements and boundaries
- orientation labels (north, south, east, west)
- panel placement and dimensions.
Example
Photographs
Provide clear, well-lit images that show:
- the property from the street and side
- the roof areas where panels are proposed
- existing roof materials and features
- angled shots that capture both the front and side of the roof.
Tip: you can use Google Street View or another mapping tool to capture a view of your roof, provided the image is up to date.
Materials and finishes
Submit details of colour, materials, finishes and how the panels will be fixed to the roof. You can provide:
- notes on your drawings
- a materials schedule
- product brochures or datasheets.
Download our permit application checklist(PDF, 934KB)
Advice and support
- Solar Savers program – free advice, access to trusted installers, and help accessing government rebates.
- Your solar installer – placement advice and supporting documentation.
- Our Statutory Planning team – pre-application guidance to ensure smooth approvals.