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Solar Energy

Madison's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In Madison, Wisconsin, 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

Madison permits rooftop and ground-mount solar by right under MGO 28.151. Building and electrical permits required; typical fee $100-$300. Focus on Energy and MGE offer rebates. WI Stat 66.0401 limits municipal solar restrictions.

Key details: State Law: WI Stat 66.0401. City Code: MGO 28.151. Permitted: By right all districts. Net Metering: Up to 20 kW MGE. Historic Review: Landmarks Commission.

Unpermitted install: stop-work, $100-$500. Non-compliant interconnection: MGE may disconnect.

The rules around panel permits in Madison lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

HOA Restrictions

Wisconsin Statute 236.292 and 66.0401 restrict HOAs and municipalities from prohibiting solar installations. Deed restrictions banning solar are void. HOAs can only impose reasonable aesthetic conditions that do not significantly increase cost.

Key details: State Law: WI Stat 236.292. Related: WI Stat 66.0401. HOA Bans: Void as matter of law. Aesthetic Rules: Allowed if reasonable. Attorney Fees: Recoverable by owner.

HOA enforcement of void restriction: civil suit by owner, possible attorney fees. Municipal enforcement: preempted, state law prevails.

The rules around hoa restrictions in Madison lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Madison gives residents more room on solar energy. 2 of the 2 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

Keep in mind that Madison can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.