Nota gewijzigde beleidsregels zonnepanelenbeleid 2022 – Solar Panel Policy for Monuments in 's-Hertogenbosch
The Gemeenteraad van 's-Hertogenbosch issued this amendment to the solar panel policy on 13 December 2022. This document updates the existing guidelines from 2 July 2019 regarding the installation of solar energy systems on monuments and other buildings within the rijksbeschermd stadsgezicht (national protected townscape). It functions as part of the municipal nota Welstand (Aesthetics Policy), providing a transparent framework for assessing applications for an omgevingsvergunning (environmental permit).
The scope of the regulation covers the Historische binnenstad, ’t Zand, and de Muntel. It differentiates between monuments (national and municipal) and non-monuments situated within protected areas. The policy addresses technical requirements for flat roofs, rear roof surfaces, and side roof surfaces, emphasizing the preservation of the 'fifth facade'—the unique historical roof landscape of the city. It also defines the parameters for visibility from the openbaar gebied (public space), including specific measurements for visibility assessment.
Professional practitioners such as architects and heritage consultants use these rules to determine placement patterns, color schemes like all black modules, and the feasibility of innovative 'in-roof' systems. The document outlines the mandatory involvement of the Monumenten- en welstandscommissie (Monuments and Aesthetics Committee) in the permit process.
Placement Criteria in Protected Areas
In the protected townscapes of the city center, ’t Zand, and de Muntel, solar panels are permitted on specific roof surfaces provided they are not visible from the public space. The following technical requirements apply:
- Flat roofs: Panels must be placed flat or at a shallow angle of approximately 15 degrees in a uniform pattern with a suitable distance from the roof edge.
- Rear and side roofs: Installations must be parallel to the roof plane and reversible, ensuring no damage to historical roofing materials.
- Uniformity: Panels must follow a contiguous pattern and avoid placement around chimneys or dormers.
- Integration: The number of panels must be aligned with existing roof features like skylights, loggias, and roof edges.
Materials such as slate, copper, and zinc require specific assessment, and panels are generally prohibited on roof planes that are prominent architectural features of a monument.
Visibility and Innovation Exceptions
Visibility from the public space is strictly defined. Visibility is measured from the opposite facade at a height of 1.80 meters and up to a distance of 75 meters from the building. Exceptions to the non-visibility rule include:
- New construction: Integrated 'in-roof' systems are permitted if they form an integral part of the design.
- Innovative applications: Systems that do not detract from the monumental or cultural-historical values of the building and its surroundings.
- Custom solutions: In specific areas where cultural-historical values are minimal or remain unharmed, the committee may deviate from standard frameworks.
Permit Procedures and Responsibilities
The requirement for an omgevingsvergunning depends on the status of the building and the location of the panels.
- Monuments: Always require a permit for solar panel installation, including on rear roof surfaces.
- Non-monuments in protected areas: Require a permit if the panels are visible from the public road or water.
- Non-monuments (rear roofs): Permit-free only if the rear roof does not border the public space.
- Monuments outside protected areas: May have panels in view on side or rear roofs if the balance between sustainability and heritage value is maintained.
The Monumenten- en welstandscommissie provides the final advice for permit granting according to standard spatial procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is visibility from public space measured in 's-Hertogenbosch?
Visibility is measured from the opposite facade at a height of 1.80 meters, extending to a distance of 75 meters from the building in question.
Are solar panels allowed on slate or copper roofs of monuments?
Placement on rare or sensitive materials like slate, copper, or zinc is generally not permitted and requires a specific, detailed assessment by the committee.
What is the 'all black' requirement for flat roofs?
For flat roofs, panels must be executed in 'all black' (including the frame and backing) to ensure a calm and uniform visual appearance.
Can I install solar panels on a monument outside the protected city center?
Yes, but a permit is always required. In some cases, panels may be visible from the street if they do not excessively detract from the monumental character.
Are integrated 'in-roof' solar systems allowed?
Integrated systems are an option for new builds and redevelopment projects if they are a core part of the architectural design and well-integrated.
What happens if my building is a 'beeldbepalend pand'?
Buildings designated as 'beeldbepalend' within a protected area follow the same legal framework as the protected townscape itself.
