Panel Permits: Evanston vs Schaumburg
How do panel permits rules compare between Evanston, IL and Schaumburg, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Schaumburg.
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 →Schaumburg, IL
Cook County
Cook County requires permits for rooftop solar panel installation on all residential rooftops. Photovoltaic panels must be roof-mounted on the principal structure. Electrical work must comply with the 2014 Cook County Electrical Code.
View full Schaumburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Evanston | Schaumburg |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Permit | - | Required for all installations |
| Location | - | Roof-mounted on principal structure |
| Electrical | - | 2014 Cook County Code |
| State Law | - | Solar access protected |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Schaumburg FAQ
Do I need a permit for solar panels in Cook County?
Yes. All residential rooftop solar installations require a building permit from Cook County Building and Zoning, plus electrical inspection compliance.
Can I install ground-mounted solar panels?
The county currently limits photovoltaic panels to roof mounting on the principal structure. Ground-mounted arrays may require additional zoning approval.
Compare other topics
See how Evanston and Schaumburg 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