Linn County, IA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

(g)Utilities, consumer scale solar installations. Consumer scale solar installations that are accessory to a principal use shall meet the following standards: (1)Minor site plan and permits. A minor site plan shall be submitted and reviewed prior to the approval of any ground mounted consumer scale solar installation. All required permits shall be obtained prior to construction of a consumer scale solar installation. (2)Site and structure requirements. a.Solar access easements allowed. Solar access easements may be filed consistent with I.C.A. § 564A.7. b.Setback. Ground mounted consumer scale solar installations must adhere to the minimum setback standards for accessory structures for the zoning district where the project is located. Roof mounted consumer scale solar installations must adhere to the minimum setback standards for the applicable structure type and zoning district where the project is located. (3)Restrictions on solar installations limited. Restrictive covenants for new subdivisions shall not include unreasonable restrictions on the use of solar collectors per I.C.A. § 564A.8. (h)Utilities, utility scale solar installations. (1)Purpose. To encourage utility scale photovoltaic solar installations. Concentrating solar power (CSP) systems shall be prohibited.