Bill > HB06959

This bill modifies existing Connecticut state law regarding historic district commissions' authority to approve or deny solar energy system installations. Specifically, the bill prohibits historic district commissions from denying a certificate of appropriateness (official approval) for a solar energy system if the system will be installed on a roof surface facing the rear of the property lot. Under the new provisions, commissions can only reject such solar installations if they can definitively prove that the system would substantially impair the historic character and appearance of the district. The bill aims to make it easier for property owners in historic districts to install solar energy systems by limiting the grounds on which a commission can deny approval. The law will take effect on October 1, 2025, and represents a legislative effort to balance historic preservation concerns with the growing push for renewable energy adoption. By focusing on rear-facing roof installations, the bill seeks to minimize visual impacts on historic streetscapes while still allowing property owners to pursue solar energy solutions.

Housing and Urban Affairs

Planning and Development Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB06959&which_year=2025