Gresham's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In Gresham, Oregon, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Panel Permits

Solar energy systems in Gresham require a development permit under Development Code Article 11, with the review level set by a size-based scale, small, medium, or large, before installation.

Key details: Permit authority: Article 11, Table 11.0204. Small system cap: up to 10 kW. Medium system range: 10-100 kW. Large system range: 100-500 kW. Screening exemption: small roof-top panels.

Installing a solar energy system without the development permit required under Section 10.0903, or exceeding your system's scale thresholds for size, height, or setbacks without the corresponding permit review, puts the installation out of compliance with the Development Code.

Expedited Solar Permitting

Gresham exempts qualifying rooftop solar installations from Planning Development Permit review entirely: only a Building Permit is required, skipping design review and land-use approval for most homes.

Key details: Permit needed: Building Permit only. Development Permit: Not required if compliant. Height limit: No higher than roof peak. Mounting: Must be parallel to roof slope. Historic property: Exemption lost, full review applies.

A system that fails the exemption tests, taller than the roof peak, expands the footprint, sits on a frame over 18 inches off the roof, or is on a historic landmark, must go through full Development Permit review before a Building Permit can issue; installing without it can trigger a stop-work order and code enforcement.

Gresham is more permissive than most cities when it comes to expedited solar permitting. That said, there are still limits.

The Bottom Line

Gresham's solar energy rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Gresham is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Gresham's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.