Chandler, AZ Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Chandler Zoning Code § 35-2210 sorts solar energy systems into two groups. An ancillary system is one intended to meet all or part of a property's on-site energy requirements. A utility scale system generates energy primarily intended for off-site consumption. The section also defines a free-standing system as a ground mounted system with a support structure designed solely to hold the equipment. Shade structures over sitting areas, recreation areas, parking spaces or walkways count as accessory buildings instead.

In agricultural, single-family and multi-family districts, and in the parts of a PAD district where those uses are allowed, ancillary systems are permitted as an accessory use to the principal use of the property. Glare is the first standard: the system must be placed so concentrated solar radiation or glare is not directed onto nearby properties or roadways. A free-standing ancillary system cannot sit in the front yard. It escapes the rear and side yard setback requirements, and adds nothing to lot coverage, only if it does not exceed the height of the surrounding perimeter wall and cannot be seen from any public street or adjoining property. A system taller than the wall, or visible from a street or a neighbor, falls under the height and area regulations of the underlying district plus the accessory building rules in Section 35-2202. Even then, a free-standing system is not counted toward the number of accessory buildings the district allows, and it must meet the life safety requirements set by the applicable building and fire codes.

In commercial and industrial districts, and in PAD areas that allow those uses, ancillary systems are also permitted accessory uses with the same glare standard. A roof-mounted or building-attached system follows the district's height and area regulations and does not have to be concealed under Section 35-1902(5)(c), except that it must be screened so it is not visible from the ground floor of any dwelling unit within 600 feet, measured from the nearest exterior wall of the building to the nearest property line of any residential development. Free-standing systems there need no screening from street view or from non-residential property, are not subject to front, rear or side setbacks when not visible from the ground floor of a dwelling unit, and do not increase lot coverage. A system on a site next to, or across an alley from, residential development that exceeds the height of the surrounding perimeter wall must sit no closer than 25 feet, plus one additional foot for each foot of system height, from the nearest residential property line.

Utility scale systems in any district require use permit approval and must meet subsection (4): no portion visible from the ground floor of any dwelling unit (a home built later in view of an approved system does not put it in violation), weed-free landscaping under Section 35-1903.6.h, a trash and debris free property, glare control, regular surveillance by on-site personnel or a security camera system, no lot coverage limit, life safety setbacks from the building and fire codes, and C-3 Regional Commercial District setbacks for every other building and structure on the site.