Arlington Heights vs Evanston
How do panel permits rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Evanston, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Arlington Heights.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Solar panel installations in Arlington Heights require a building permit and electrical permit. The Village follows the Illinois Solar Rights Act which protects homeowners' right to install solar energy systems. Roof-mounted systems must comply with structural and fire code requirements. Ground-mounted systems must meet setback and height restrictions.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Solar panel installations in Evanston require a building permit and electrical permit. The city actively promotes solar through its participation in the Illinois Solar for All program and community solar initiatives. Historic district properties require Historic Preservation Commission review. Illinois law protects solar access rights.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Permits Required | Building and electrical | Building + electrical |
| Solar Rights Act | Illinois protects solar access | - |
| Roof Setback | 3-foot fire access perimeter | - |
| Ground Mount Setback | 3 feet from property lines | - |
| Net Metering | Available through ComEd | Available via ComEd under 25 kW |
| Solar Access Law | - | 765 ILCS 165 protects access |
| Historic Districts | - | HPC review required |
| Community Dev | - | (847) 448-4311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Do I need a permit for solar panels in Arlington Heights?
Yes. Both a building permit and an electrical permit are required. The Village processes solar permits on an expedited basis consistent with state law. Submit plans showing panel layout, structural details, and electrical specifications.
Can my HOA prohibit solar panels?
The Illinois Solar Rights Act limits HOA restrictions on solar energy systems. An HOA cannot prohibit solar panels entirely but may impose reasonable aesthetic requirements that do not significantly increase cost or decrease efficiency.
Can I install ground-mounted solar panels?
Yes, in the rear yard only. Ground-mounted arrays are treated as accessory structures and must meet setback requirements of at least 3 feet from property lines and comply with height limits.
Evanston FAQ
Do I need a permit for solar panels in Evanston?
Yes. Both a building permit and electrical permit are required. Apply through Community Development at (847) 448-4311. Properties in historic districts also need Historic Preservation Commission approval.
Does Evanston offer solar incentives?
Evanston participates in the Illinois Solar for All program for qualifying households. The Illinois Adjustable Block Program provides SRECs. ComEd offers net metering for residential systems under 25 kW.
Can my neighbor block my solar panels with a new building?
Illinois Solar Collector Privilege Act (765 ILCS 165) protects your right to solar access by preventing adjacent property owners from obstructing existing solar collectors with new construction.
Compare other topics
See how Arlington Heights and Evanston compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool