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Solar Energy

Sioux Falls's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, 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.

HOA Restrictions

Sioux Falls has no city ordinance restricting HOA authority over solar panels. South Dakota allows solar easements (SDCL §43-13-17) but lacks a statewide solar access law preempting HOA restrictions. HOAs in Sioux Falls may legally restrict solar installations.

Key details: City solar ordinance: None. State preemption law: None enacted. Solar easements allowed: Yes, SDCL §43-13-17. HOA authority: May restrict solar.

No city penalty applies. HOA enforcement is governed by association declarations; violations may result in HOA fines, liens, or forced removal of panels.

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

Panel Permits

Sioux Falls requires both a building permit and an electrical permit for residential or commercial rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) installations. The city enforces the 2021 IBC and 2023 NEC for structural and electrical compliance on all PV systems.

Key details: Building permit required: Yes — § 150.015 (IBC 2021). Electrical permit required: Yes — § 150.201 (NEC 2023). Structural code section: IBC §§ 1603.1.8.1, 1606.4. Interconnection rule: SD PUC (systems under 100 kW). Permit office: Building Services, 224 W. 9th St..

Operating without required building or electrical permits is a violation of § 150.015 and § 150.201. Stop-work orders, mandatory inspections, and fines per the general penalty schedule (§ 10.999) may be issued; penalties up to $500 per day of non-compliance.

The Bottom Line

Sioux Falls'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 Sioux Falls is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Sioux Falls'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.