Story County, IA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

04(3)(F)'s standards; that preliminary permit is void six months after issuance if construction has not started, though the Planning and Development Director can grant a six-month extension on written request, and construction must wrap up within 18 months of issuance or extension. 10. On the substantive side, a roof- or building-mounted system cannot exceed the underlying zoning district's principal or accessory use height limit and cannot extend past the roof's edge, while a ground-mounted system is capped at the district's accessory building height. No part of the array may cross the accessory-use setback line set in Table 86-2.

Panels must be positioned so concentrated glare is not directed onto neighboring properties or roadways. The application itself must include a line drawing showing the electrical components conform to the National Electrical Code, and unless the system is fully off-grid, the applicant must show the utility company has been told of the intent to install an interconnected, customer-owned generator; a certificate of general liability insurance and FAA compliance where applicable round out the standards. The same standard is repeated verbatim for solar installations in every one of the county's zoning districts, not just A-1 Agricultural.