Solar Energy in Waukesha County, WI (2026)

1 county-level rule, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Waukesha County, Wisconsin.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Waukesha County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Panel Permits

A solar energy system in unincorporated Waukesha County that cannot meet the county's normal accessory-structure setbacks needs a special exception or variance from the five-member Board of Adjustment under Section 38(c)1.E of the Shoreland Protection Ordinance. The board must give written reasons if it denies the request, and WDNR gets notice of every decision within 10 days.

Solar Panel Setback Variances in Waukesha County

Significant Restrictions

Waukesha County Shoreland Protection Ordinance Sec. 38(c)1.E

E. To grant special exceptions and variances for renewable energy resource systems if said system cannot meet normal location requirements of this Ordinance for accessory structures. If the board denies an application for a special exception or variance for a renewable energy resource system, the board shall provide a written statement of its reasons for denying the application. In this paragra...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Solar Energy by City in Waukesha County

1 cities in Waukesha County have their own solar energy rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.

WaukeshaPop. 71,158

1 verified rule • Panel Permits

All Waukesha County ordinances

See every category we cover for Waukesha County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Waukesha County Ordinance Hub →