Why 2/5: The bill has a delayed effective date of July 1, 2027, meaning its operational impact is not immediate.
This bill allows Virginia localities to require solar canopies over up to 50 percent of large non-residential parking areas (100+ spaces). This change could increase renewable energy generation and reduce carbon emissions by allowing the generated electricity to offset building consumption.
Cleared committee
Reported from Counties, Cities and Towns (18-Y 3-N)
Second reading
Read second time
Update
Floor offered Delegate Sewell Amendments
Third reading
Read third time
Amendment adopted
Delegate Sewell Floor amendments agreed to
Update
Engrossed by House as amended
Passed a chamber
Passed House with amendments (75-Y 21-N 0-A)
Amendment adopted
House amendments agreed to by Senate (20-Y 19-N 0-A)
Enrolled
Enrolled
This bill has passed its votes and is headed to the Governor's desk. You still have a say — the Governor's office reads messages before deciding whether to sign.
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Summarized from the official bill text (“Land development; definitions, solar canopies in surface parking areas, delayed effective date.”) · Read the actual bill →
Passed a chamber
Bill text as passed Senate and House (SB26ER)
Passed a chamber
Signed by Speaker
Passed a chamber
Signed by President
Enrolled
Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 10, 2026
Sent to the Governor
Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
Signed into law
Approved by Governor-Chapter 758 (effective 7/1/2026)