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Can you be fined for installing solar panels without permits?

08/09/2025

Instal·lació per autoconsum entregada a Novotipo, Portugal

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Taking the step towards self-consumption is one of the best decisions you can make: you reduce your bill, gain energy independence and contribute to the planet. But there is one detail you cannot overlook: permits.

If you install your photovoltaic system without complying with the regulations, what seemed like a saving can turn into an unexpected expense in the form of a penalty.

What do you risk if you do not legalize your installation?

  • Fines that hurt: between €300 and more than €6,000, depending on the municipality.
  • Worst nightmare: the city council can order your solar system to be dismantled.
  • Goodbye to subsidies: no subsidies or tax deductions.
  • No extra income: you will not be able to receive compensation for surpluses.
  • Problems when selling the house: the illegal installation reduces its value.

Summary table: penalties and how to avoid them

Risk if you do not legalize the installationDirect consequenceHow to avoid it
Failure to request a building permitFines from 300 € to 6.000 €.Ask for permission in your city hall before installing.
Failure to register the installationNo compensation of surpluses and additional penaltiesRegister with Industry and notify your electricity distributor.
Use of non-approved materialsSecurity risk and administrative sanctionPurchase only certified equipment.
Enlarge or modify without permissionDismantling orderAlways communicate changes to the local authority.
Failure to comply with technical regulations (REBT)Unsafe and unsafe installationRely on a qualified engineer and technicians.

The definitive guide to avoid problems (and fines)

  1. Ask at your town hall: each municipality has different requirements.
  2. Apply for the building permit: even if it seems a minor formality.
  3. Trust an engineer: he will write the technical report or project.
  4. Use approved equipment: more safety and zero legal problems.
  5. Register the installation: essential step to receive compensation for surpluses.

Legalizing is saving in the long run

Legalizing a photovoltaic installation may sound bureaucratic, but it is the guarantee that your investment will be safe and profitable for decades to come.

To risk installing without papers is to lose money: between fines, loss of subsidies and the possibility of having to dismantle your system, the cost skyrockets.

The best way to make sure everything is in order is to trust a professional plate installer in your area. professional plate installer in your areawho will take care of the paperwork and ensure that you will have no problems in the future.

Legislation applicable to solar panels

  • BOE-A-2013-13645 Law 24/2013, of December 26, 2013, on the Electricity Sector. (n.d.). https://www.boe.es/buscar/act.php?id=BOE-A-2013-13645
  • BOE-A-2018-13593 Royal Decree-Law 15/2018, of October 5, on urgent measures for energy transition and consumer protection. (n.d.). https://www.boe.es/buscar/doc.php?id=BOE-A-2018-13593

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