Madison permits rooftop and ground-mount solar by right under MGO 28.151. Building and electrical permits required; typical fee $100-$300. Focus on Energy and MGE offer rebates. WI Stat 66.0401 limits municipal solar restrictions.
Madison General Ordinances 28.151 treats solar energy systems as accessory uses permitted by right in all zoning districts. Wisconsin Statute 66.0401 (Solar and Wind Access Law) prohibits municipalities from enacting ordinances that prevent solar installations unless the restriction serves a significant public interest (historic preservation, safety) and there are feasible alternatives. Rooftop solar requires a building permit (structural review for load, typically $100-$200) and an electrical permit ($75-$150) issued by Building Inspection. Ground-mount systems over 200 sq ft also require zoning verification and must meet setbacks. Interconnection with MGE requires Customer Generation application; systems under 20 kW use simplified Form A. Net metering available for residential systems up to 20 kW at retail rate. Madison's local historic districts (Mansion Hill, Third Lake Ridge, University Heights, Marquette Bungalows) require Landmarks Commission review for visible panels, but outright denial is constrained by WI Stat 66.0401.
Unpermitted install: stop-work, $100-$500. Non-compliant interconnection: MGE may disconnect.
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