Solar Energy in Michigan (2026)

10 rules on the books across Michigan, 9 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.

Clinton Township regulates solar energy systems under Zoning Code Section 1154.19, splitting the rules by district and…

Dearborn treats a freestanding solar panel as an accessory structure that needs a building permit and zoning-compliance…

Grand Rapids allows solar energy systems as an accessory use in every zone district by right, but sets fixed placement…

Lansing lets roof-mounted solar panels poke above a district's height limit by up to 36 inches under Zoning Code §…

Livonia allows roof, wall, and ground-mounted solar panels as accessory structures in every zoning district, but a…

Roof-mounted solar panels are a permitted accessory use in every Sterling Heights zoning district, capped at 10 feet…

Westland charges a $25 electrical permit fee per solar photovoltaic system under 5,000 kW inverter capacity, and $35…

Troy allows active and passive solar energy devices in every zoning district by right, needing only administrative…

Wyoming, Michigan treats solar photovoltaic and solar hot-water panels as an accessory use permitted by right in every…

State and local laws that limit what HOAs can restrict when it comes to solar panel installation, placement, and appearance.

Since April 2, 2025, Michigan's Homeowners' Energy Policy Act (2024 PA 68, MCL 559.301 to 559.317) makes any provision…