"Texas, often referred to as the Lone Star State, is a thriving hub for economic growth and innovation, making it an attractive destination for commercial real estate investment." - Chris Evans

Planning to Install Solar Panels in Texas? Don’t Skip the Land Survey

Solar Power Starts with the Right Data

Texas is quickly becoming one of the top states for solar energy, with homeowners and businesses across Houston, Conroe, Katy, and Magnolia installing solar panels to lower energy bills and increase sustainability. But before those panels go up, you need to know exactly where—and how—they’ll fit on your property.

That’s where a professional land survey from South Texas Surveying comes in.

Why a Land Survey Matters for Solar Installation

Installing solar panels isn’t just about sunlight—it’s about precision. Whether panels are going on a roof or in a field, land surveys help:

• Confirm property boundaries for ground-mounted systems

• Identify setback requirements and zoning limitations

• Map elevation and slope for optimal sun exposure

• Prevent encroachment on neighboring lots or easements

• Ensure solar components don’t violate floodplain restrictions

Types of Surveys That Support Solar Projects

✅ Boundary Survey

Confirms where your property lines end, so you don’t place ground-mounted panels on—or too close to—your neighbor’s land.

✅ Topographic Survey

Shows elevation, slope, and terrain features. Solar panels work best when installed at the right angle—this survey helps maximize sun exposure.

✅ Improvement Location Survey

Maps out buildings, fences, trees, and other structures to help design around existing features and ensure setbacks are met.

✅ Flood Elevation Certificate

Required if your property is in a flood zone. Panels in these areas must be installed above a certain height or may be restricted altogether.

Real-World Example: Solar Delayed in Cypress

A homeowner in Cypress hired a solar company to install ground-mounted panels but didn’t have a survey. Halfway through permitting, the city required confirmation that the array wouldn’t encroach on a utility easement. We stepped in to perform a boundary and topographic survey, allowing the project to move forward without redesign.

A $500 survey saved the homeowner weeks of delays—and a potential reinstallation fee.

Who Should Get a Survey Before Going Solar?

• Homeowners installing roof-mounted or ground-mounted panels

• Commercial property owners adding solar to warehouses or offices

• Landowners building solar farms or solar-ready lots

• Solar installation companies looking to streamline permitting

• Developers of new green communities or subdivisions

Benefits of Surveying Before Solar Installation

• ✅ Maximize panel efficiency with accurate slope data

• ✅ Avoid legal disputes with neighbors or HOAs

• ✅ Comply with local ordinances and utility easements

• ✅ Speed up solar permitting and inspection approval

• ✅ Future-proof your system by ensuring optimal layout

Areas We Serve for Solar Surveying

• Houston – Inner Loop, Heights, Midtown, Westchase

• Katy, Cypress, and Fulshear

• The Woodlands, Conroe, and Montgomery County

• Pearland, Manvel, Alvin, and Brazoria County

• Pasadena, League City, and Clear Lake

Why Work with South Texas Surveying?

• ✅ Licensed Texas surveyors with local permitting knowledge

• ✅ Fast turnaround to meet solar installer timelines

• ✅ Trusted by homeowners, developers, and solar companies

• ✅ Clear communication and digital delivery of documents

• ✅ Compliant with city, county, and utility district requirements

Solar is a smart investment—but skipping the survey can make it a costly one. Whether you’re adding panels to your home, business, or land, South Texas Surveying gives you the clarity to build efficiently, legally, and with confidence.