Royal Oak, MI Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Royal Oak allows solar energy systems as an accessory use in every zoning district under § 770-54B(1), so long as the system is incidental to a use on the same lot and supplies power mainly for on-site consumption. Before erecting any system, § 770-54H requires the owner or operator to obtain a building permit along with any other permit required by federal, state, or local agencies, and to meet the City's construction and electrical codes. § 770-54H(2) lists what a solar permit application needs beyond the § 770-12 site plan: the manufacturer and model of the solar collector or generator, mount height and type, foundation details, solar battery specifications, and the manufacturer's electrical plans, per § 770-54H(2)(a).

The applicant must also show, under § 770-54H(2)(b), that the utility has been notified of the interconnected system and that it meets the utility's and Michigan Public Service Commission's minimum requirements, unless the system is off-grid. § 770-54H(2)(c) requires evidence from a qualified professional that the site gets enough sun between 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on December 21, the year's shortest-sun day, or documented easements guaranteeing solar access. Ground-mounted systems are capped at 800 square feet of collector area and 20 feet in height at maximum tilt under § 770-54D(1) and (2), and a system left unused for 180 days is deemed abandoned and must be removed under § 770-54G(1).