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Edmonton planners aim to simplify rules around new roof-top solar panel installations before the next roofing season.

Homeowners would still require an electrical permit, but won’t need a development permit, said senior planner Anne Stevenson, speaking to her team’s work plan heading to a council committee for debate next week.

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Rules around solar panels in Edmonton have been confusing. With solar tiles on the market as an option for people upgrading their roofs, planners didn’t want the rules to get in the way of innovation.

“We want to make sure if someone chooses to re-shingle their roof with solar tiles, they’re not having to come in for a development permit,” said Stevenson. “We just want to make it really clear and easy.”

The change is scheduled to go to a public hearing in April. There may be further rules around wall-mounted solar panels so they don’t stick out too close to other people’s homes.

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