Gresham, OR Solar Energy: Expedited Solar Permitting (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit needed
- Building Permit only
- Development Permit
- Not required if compliant
- Height limit
- No higher than roof peak
- Mounting
- Must be parallel to roof slope
- Historic property
- Exemption lost, full review applies
Summary
Gresham exempts qualifying rooftop solar installations from Planning Development Permit review entirely: only a Building Permit is required, skipping design review and land-use approval for most homes.
The following activities do not require a Planning Development Permit but will require a Building Permit: 1. Roof-top solar energy systems where the system meets the following: a. Is installed on the roof of a residential, commercial/mixed-use, industrial, or institutional structure; and b. Does not exceed the peak height of the portion of the roof on which it is installed; and c. Does not increase the footprint of the residential, commercial/mixed-use or industrial structure; and d. Is installed parallel to the slope of the roof; and e. Is not listed in the exceptions of Section 11.0102.H.
Full Breakdown
Under the Community Development Code, rooftop solar energy systems on residential, commercial/mixed-use, industrial, or institutional structures skip Development Permit review and need only a Building Permit, so long as the system doesn't exceed the roof's peak height, doesn't enlarge the building's footprint, and is mounted parallel to the roof slope. Systems on federally or locally designated historic buildings, in historic or conservation districts, or mounted on a frame more than 18 inches off the roof lose the exemption and need both a Building Permit and a Development Permit.
Violations & Fines
A system that fails the exemption tests, taller than the roof peak, expands the footprint, sits on a frame over 18 inches off the roof, or is on a historic landmark, must go through full Development Permit review before a Building Permit can issue; installing without it can trigger a stop-work order and code enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a land-use permit for rooftop solar in Gresham?
What disqualifies a solar install from the streamlined permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Gresham
Compare Gresham to another location·View the Oregon solar energy overview
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