Historic Landmark Commission approves freestanding solar structure at 1516 Upson Drive

The El Paso Historic Landmark Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for a freestanding metal structure in the rear yard of 1516 Upson Drive, a contributing 1916 house in the Sunset Heights Historic District, allowing solar panels to be installed on a separate rear structure.

Staff presented photos and an aerial showing multiple existing roofs on the parcel and said the proposed structure would be roughly 12½ feet high and located behind existing accessory buildings. Staff noted the city’s design guidelines direct new mechanical equipment and additions to be placed in inconspicuous locations and to avoid damage to character‑defining features. The applicant — who identified herself in the hearing as Elena (homeowner) — told the commission the home’s gable roof offers insufficient unshaded area and that locating the required quantity of panels on the existing house would make panels visible from multiple public vantage points. She said the freestanding structure also serves as shade for children in the yard.

The applicant reported that city staff advised the concrete footings for the structure require building permits but that the posts and metal framing themselves would not need a permit; installation of the solar array will require an electrical permit. Commissioners asked about visibility from the alley and neighbors; staff and the owner noted that due to the placement and surrounding roofs the structure would be minimally visible from public rights‑of‑way. One commissioner moved to approve the proposal as submitted; the motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote. Staff will send the owner an approval letter to include with her permit application.