Solar Energy in Iowa (2026)
8 rules on the books across Iowa, 6 cities and counties. Select a rule to read the full details.
Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions
Panel Permits
Permits required for installing rooftop or ground-mounted solar panels, including electrical inspections and interconnection approvals.
Iowa: statewide
StatewideSome RestrictionsIowa Code section 476.49 requires rate-regulated electric utilities to offer net metering to customer-owned solar up to…
Read full rule →Davenport
Some RestrictionsDavenport allows rooftop and ground-mounted solar as an accessory use citywide, subject to building and electrical…
Read full rule →Linn County
Some RestrictionsGround-mounted solar in unincorporated Linn County needs a minor site plan and all permits before construction…
Read full rule →Polk County
Some RestrictionsUnincorporated Polk County allows roof-mounted, building-mounted and ground-mounted Accessory Solar Energy Conversion…
Read full rule →Sioux City
Some RestrictionsSioux City exempts solar arrays and energy storage units from the certificate-of-occupancy step and lets them exceed…
Read full rule →Story County
Some RestrictionsInstalling a roof- or ground-mounted solar array on unincorporated land in Story County requires a zoning permit under…
Read full rule →Johnson County
Few RestrictionsRooftop solar is welcome across Johnson County, and Iowa City actively encourages it. A homeowner needs a building and…
Read full rule →HOA Restrictions
State and local laws that limit what HOAs can restrict when it comes to solar panel installation, placement, and appearance.