Minneapolis requires building and electrical permits for solar PV systems. Solar is an allowed accessory use in all zoning districts subject to setback, height, and fire-pathway standards.
Rooftop and ground-mounted solar arrays require a building permit and an electrical permit issued by Minneapolis CPED and the state electrical inspector. Structural review verifies the roof can support added panel dead load plus snow load using Minnesota Building Code snow-load tables. Plans must include panel specifications, racking, fire setbacks per Minnesota State Fire Code (pathways on sloped roofs), and interconnection details for Xcel Energy. Ground-mounted systems must meet accessory structure setbacks and height limits. Historic districts and some overlay zones require additional design review by the Heritage Preservation Commission. Solar is recognized as a protected use, and Minnesota Statute 500.215 prohibits restrictive covenants that unreasonably impair solar energy systems.
Installing without permits results in stop-work orders, permit fees doubled, and potential removal. Electrical work without a state permit carries additional penalties. Non-compliant fire pathways must be corrected before final inspection.
Minneapolis, MN
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See how Minneapolis's panel permits rules stack up against other locations.
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