Sandy's Relaxed Approach to Solar Energy: What's Allowed

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In Sandy, 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 PV installations require a combined building/electrical permit in Sandy with expedited review for standard residential systems under Utah SB 154.

Key details: Fact: Combined permit required. Fact: Expedited residential review. Fact: NEC rapid shutdown. Fact: RMP net metering.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

Sandy is more permissive than most cities when it comes to panel permits. That said, there are still limits.

HOA Restrictions

Utah Solar Access Act (Utah Code 57-8a-801) prevents HOAs from prohibiting solar panels but allows reasonable aesthetic restrictions on placement.

Key details: Fact: State law protects installs. Fact: 5% cost/10% efficiency test. Fact: Rear-roof preference OK. Fact: Black frames common.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

Sandy is more permissive than most cities when it comes to hoa restrictions. That said, there are still limits.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Sandy 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.

These rules come from Sandy's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.