Solar Energy

For residential permit types, descriptions, and associated checklist information, please see the Residential Submittal Standards and Checklists page.

For commercial permit types, descriptions, and associated checklist information, see the Commercial Submittal Standards and Checklists page.

These guidelines provide information on applicable standards and how to apply for a solar energy system permit in the City of Meridian. Solar energy systems, a device, an array of devices, or a structural design feature that provides for the generation and/or storage of electricity from sunlight, are considered as an accessory use to a principally permitted use. Solar energy systems, either roof-mounted or ground-mounted, must comply with the applicable sections of Title 11, Unified Development Code (UDC), and Title 10, Building Regulations of Meridian City Code. For questions regarding the process for obtaining permit(s) or general questions, please contact the Community Development Department at 208-887-2211.

Ground-Mounted Solar Equipment

See UDC 11-2, Articles A-D

• Setbacks: Must comply with the building setbacks of the zoning district.
• Height: Must comply with height limitations for the zoning district.

Roof-Mounted Solar Equipment

• Must be mounted on the roof of an existing or concurrently proposed building.
• Setbacks: Must meet the same setbacks as the building equipment is mounted on.

Application Requirements

Solar Energy Systems are allowed in all zoning districts as an accessory use upon approval of a building permit.

Permit Application is on the Commercial & Residential Applications page.

Miscellaneous Information

In non-residential zoning districts, panel boxes, monitoring equipment, inverters, meters, batteries, conduit, service connections, and general utility of solar energy systems must comply with UDC 11-3A-12, Outdoor Service and Equipment Areas, as applicable. Additionally:

• Solar panel frames should be a black matte finish or other accent material used on the structure per the Architectural Standards Manual. Hardware brackets and support structures, including posts or poles that elevate the panels, should be painted to meet a Light Reflectance Value of 38% or less.
• Conduit and panel boxes should be painted to match the wall or roof surface they are adjacent to.
• Other code requirements may be applicable depending on the scope of the project. Please contact City Staff to determine what other requirements may be applicable.

All Solar permits are based on project value. The applicant provides the City with the bid amount for the job.

Fee calculations are as follows, based on that valuation:
Value $0.00 to $2,000 = $40.00 base fee + 2.5% of value
Value $2,001 to $10,000 = $100.00 base fee + 1% of Value
Value Over $10,001 = $180.00 base fee + .5% (of portion over $10,000.00)