Panel Permits: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do panel permits rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Des Plaines.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires building and electrical permits for solar photovoltaic installations on residential and commercial properties. Permits are issued by the Department of Community and Economic Development. Illinois's Homeowners' Solar Rights Act (765 ILCS 165) limits homeowner association restrictions on residential solar installations.
View full Des Plaines 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 | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Permits | Building & electrical | - |
| Roof Mount | No zoning special use | - |
| Ground Mount | Setbacks apply | - |
| Interconnection | ComEd approval | - |
| Incentive | Illinois Shines | - |
| Permits Required | - | Building + electrical |
| Solar Access Law | - | 765 ILCS 165 protects access |
| Net Metering | - | Available via ComEd under 25 kW |
| Historic Districts | - | HPC review required |
| Community Dev | - | (847) 448-4311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit to install solar in Des Plaines?
Yes. Both building and electrical permits are required for residential solar PV installations, regardless of system size, plus ComEd interconnection approval to connect to the grid.
Are ground-mounted solar arrays allowed?
Yes, on residential lots, but they are treated as accessory structures and must meet setbacks and lot coverage limits for accessory structures in your zoning district.
Can my HOA stop me from installing solar?
Illinois's Homeowners' Solar Rights Act limits HOA restrictions on residential solar. Reasonable aesthetic conditions are permitted but outright bans are generally not enforceable.
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 Des Plaines 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