Can I install solar panels in Sterling Heights?

Yes. Roof-mounted solar is permitted as an accessory structure in every zoning district, on homes, businesses, and accessory buildings, as long as panels rise no more than 10 feet above the finished roof at maximum tilt; they are exempt from rooftop screening rules (Section 28.00.J.2). Panels must be placed to avoid reflective glare toward neighbors and streets (Section 28.00.J.1).

Ground-mounted systems are allowed everywhere except P-1 and floodplain areas. In the R districts they belong in the rear yard, at least 3 feet from property lines, capped at 15 feet of height, or 10 feet on lots of a quarter acre or less, and limited to 20 percent of the parcel (Section 28.00.J.3). Building-integrated systems are permitted in all districts (Section 28.00.J.4).

Carport solar systems are permitted in nonresidential districts with site plan approval, up to 20 feet tall with 8.5 feet of clearance, but not in the one and two family districts (Section 28.00.J.5). Zoning compliance approval under Section 29.02 and electrical permits apply.