Lakewood, CO Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Ground-mount permit process
- minor site plan (Article 2)
- Ground-mount setback
- 5 ft from property lines
- Ground-mount height cap
- 10 feet
- Roof-mount rule
- can't project past roof peak
Summary
A ground-mounted solar array in Lakewood needs the minor site plan process under Article 2, plus 5-foot property-line setbacks and a 10-foot height cap; roof-mounted panels skip that site-plan step.
Solar collectors shall be located a minimum of 5 feet from all property lines. ... Solar collectors shall not exceed 10 feet in height. ... A ground mounted solar collection system shall be subject to the minor site plan process, as described in Article 2.
Full Breakdown
Lakewood's Zoning Ordinance splits solar collectors by mounting type. Ground-mounted systems on single-family, duplex, or attached-dwelling lots must stay 5 feet from every property line, top out at 10 feet, generally avoid the front yard (or sit twice the required setback back and be screened), count toward the accessory-structure coverage cap, and go through the minor site plan process described in Article 2. Roof- or wall-mounted collectors instead just need a 5-foot clearance from other structures and can't project past the roof peak, or more than 5 feet above a flat roof.
Violations & Fines
Installing a ground-mounted system without the required minor site plan approval, or violating the setback or height limits, is a Zoning Ordinance violation prosecuted under the Municipal Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a ground-mounted solar array need a permit in Lakewood, CO?
Can I put solar panels in my front yard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lakewood
Compare Lakewood to another location·View the Colorado solar energy overview
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Panel Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Jefferson County handle panel permits.