Plymouth, MN Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

02 makes Plymouth's solar energy system rules apply within all zoning districts except as otherwise provided in the chapter. 03 sets height and arrangement standards for every installation: roof-mounted systems on sloped roofs must match the roof's finished pitch, cannot extend more than two feet above the roof section they are attached to, cannot extend beyond the roof's boundaries, and cannot rise above the roof peak; systems on flat roofs cannot extend more than ten feet above the roof section and cannot extend beyond the roof boundaries; ground-mounted systems cannot exceed 15 feet in height when oriented at maximum tilt.

04, though the Zoning Administrator can exclude them from lot coverage or impervious surface calculations. 05 requires the applicant to submit information demonstrating conformance with the chapter, the application materials required for a building permit, specification sheets and installation manuals for every manufactured component including PV modules, inverters, the combiner box, disconnects, and the mounting system, plus to-scale horizontal and vertical elevation drawings showing the system's location on the building for rooftop installs or on the property with dimensions from lot lines for ground-mounted installs.

Systems must be maintained under the property maintenance code, Section 405 of the City Code, cannot carry signage beyond required safety signage, and an obsolete system must be removed within 12 months of ceasing operation unless the Zoning Administrator grants an exemption.