Salt Lake City's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In Salt Lake City, Utah, 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

Rooftop solar requires an electrical and building permit from SLC Building Services; fees are reduced for residential PV.

Key details: Fact: SolarAPP+ streamlined review. Fact: Same-day permit for standard systems. Fact: Structural review for tile/heavy loads. Fact: RMP interconnection required.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

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

HOA Restrictions

Utah state law (UCA 57-8a-801) prohibits HOAs from banning solar panels but allows reasonable placement rules.

Key details: Fact: HOAs cannot ban solar in Utah. Fact: 5% cost/production threshold. Fact: Reasonable aesthetic rules allowed. Fact: Enforced via civil court.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Salt Lake City gives residents more flexibility on hoa restrictions.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City 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.