Troy, MI Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

05 of the Zoning Ordinance, effective July 23, 2026, treats solar energy devices as a by-right use citywide: active and passive systems are permitted in every zoning classification and normally need only administrative approval from the Building Department rather than a public hearing. That by-right status has two carve-outs. First, if a solar device or architectural feature projects into a required front or side yard, or stands as a free-standing element within one, the installation is bumped up to full site plan review under Article 8, the same process used for larger commercial projects.

Second, height is treated differently by mounting type: passive systems integrated into or mounted flush with the roof, such as flat plate collectors and photovoltaic cells, are excluded entirely from the building's maximum height calculation, while active solar structures on freestanding supports or architecturally integrated with a building are capped at forty (40) feet. C lets a landowner record an easement, covenant or other deed restriction describing a three-dimensional 'solar skyspace' that forbids or limits neighboring activities, land uses, structures or trees that would block sunlight to a solar structure, and any such Solar Access Easement must be recorded and a copy kept on file with the Troy Building Department.