Flint, MI Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Solar PV permitting in Flint follows the standard Michigan Single State Construction Code two-permit pattern. The building permit reviews structural loading of the existing roof under the Michigan Residential Code (Chapter 8, roof-ceiling construction) and ASCE 7 wind and snow loads (Flint is in approximately a 20-30 psf ground snow load zone and ~115 mph nominal wind zone). Plan review may require a stamped letter from a Michigan-licensed structural engineer for older homes where rafter sizing or attachment cannot be verified from existing drawings. The electrical permit covers Article 690 of the National Electrical Code (Solar Photovoltaic Systems) as adopted by Michigan — disconnect requirements, rapid shutdown under NEC 690.12, conductor sizing, grounding, and labeling. Interconnection with Consumers Energy (the utility serving most of Flint) follows the utility's distributed generation tariff filed with the Michigan Public Service Commission under MCL 460.1171 et seq. The 2016 amendments (PA 341 and PA 342 of 2016) replaced the prior true net metering program with a Distributed Generation Program (DGP) under which exported energy is compensated at the locational marginal price rather than retail rate; legacy net metering customers were grandfathered. The MPSC's renewable energy and DG rules are codified at Mich. Admin. Code R 460.601 et seq. Flint is generally a permissive solar jurisdiction; expedited review may be available for small residential systems, but any local historic district designation may add architectural review.