Pontiac, MI Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Zoning Ordinance Section 2.541, Sustainable Energy Generation, addresses solar energy systems in subsection E and permits them in every zoning district, but only on stated conditions. Rooftop and building-mounted systems, covered in subsection E.1, may not extend more than three feet above the surface they are mounted to and cannot protrude beyond the edge of the roof, and subsection E.1.c requires a building permit before installation. Ground-mounted and freestanding systems, covered in subsection E.2, must meet the front-yard setback that already applies to the zoning district and sit back at least 5 feet from any side or rear property line under subsection E.2.a.

Height is limited to 10 feet at maximum tilt under subsection E.2.c, dropping to 42 inches if the system sits between the required front setback line and the front building wall, where evergreen landscaping must screen the equipment from view without blocking its solar exposure. Ground-mounted systems cannot cover more than 20 percent of the total lot area, and subsection E.2.e requires a building permit the same as rooftop installations. Batteries included with a solar collector system must be kept in a secure container while in use and disposed of according to applicable law once retired.

If a solar energy system stops functioning for 12 consecutive months, the property owner must remove the collector, mounts, and associated equipment within 90 days after that period ends, so a defunct installation cannot sit indefinitely.