Panel Permits: Schaumburg vs Tinley Park
How do panel permits rules compare between Schaumburg, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Tinley Park has fewer restrictions than Schaumburg.
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 →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park requires a building and electrical permit for solar photovoltaic installations on homes. Illinois law (765 ILCS 165, the Homeowners' Energy Policy Statement Act) protects the right to install solar and limits HOA restrictions. Permits include structural review for roof loads and electrical review for interconnection compliance.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Schaumburg | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required for all installations | Required |
| Location | Roof-mounted on principal structure | - |
| Electrical | 2014 Cook County Code | - |
| State Law | Solar access protected | - |
| Electrician | - | Licensed required |
| Utility | - | ComEd interconnection |
| Net Metering | - | Available |
| Fire Setbacks | - | Per IRC |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Tinley Park FAQ
Do I need a permit for solar panels in Tinley Park?
Yes. A combined building and electrical permit is required. The application must include structural calculations for roof loads and a licensed electrical contractor for the electrical portion.
Can my HOA stop me from installing solar?
Generally no. Illinois's Homeowners' Energy Policy Statement Act (765 ILCS 165) protects the right to install solar. HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic restrictions but cannot effectively prohibit solar.
What incentives are available?
Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program) provides renewable energy credits, and the federal Investment Tax Credit offers 30% of system cost. Net metering credits excess generation at retail rates.
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