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Solar Energy Systems in the City of Hoopeston
The City of Hoopeston supports the responsible use of solar energy. Our solar regulations are designed to encourage renewable energy while protecting public safety, neighboring properties, and the character of our community.
Whether you’re considering rooftop solar panels for your home or planning a larger commercial project, this page will help you understand the City’s requirements.
Residential Solar Panels
Homeowners and businesses may install Personal Solar Energy Systems (PSES) in all zoning districts when they meet the City’s requirements.
A personal solar energy system is intended to produce electricity primarily for use on the property where it is installed. Excess electricity may be sent back to the electric grid through net metering, but these systems are not intended to operate as commercial power generation facilities.
Do I Need a Permit?
For commercial systems, yes.
Before installing a solar energy system, you must obtain the required City permits and inspections.
All installations must comply with:
- City of Hoopeston ordinances
- International Building Code
- International Residential Code
- National Electrical Code
- Utility interconnection requirements (for grid-connected systems)
All systems must be inspected before they are placed into operation.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Roof-mounted systems are permitted throughout the City when they meet the following standards:
- Panels may project no more than 12 inches above the roof surface.
- Panels may not exceed the maximum building height allowed in the zoning district (with limited exceptions for existing roofs already near the height limit).
- Solar panels may cover up to 80% of the roof area.
- Installations must allow adequate roof access for firefighters.
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Ground-mounted systems are also permitted but have additional requirements.
Ground-mounted systems must:
- Be located on lots of at least one acre
- Be no taller than 10 feet
- Maintain a minimum 30-foot setback from property lines
- Not be located within the required front yard
- Not exceed one-half of the principal building’s footprint
Ground-mounted systems that do not meet these requirements must obtain a zoning variance before installation.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
Battery storage systems are permitted with personal solar installations.
Requirements include:
- Compliance with applicable building and electrical codes
- Inspection before being placed into service
- The location of the battery system must be provided to the Hoopeston Fire Department within seven days of installation
Design Standards
To minimize impacts on neighboring properties, solar installations should:
- Minimize glare onto adjacent properties
- Be designed to blend with the building whenever practical
- Be screened from routine public view when possible without affecting system performance
- Be located to reduce unnecessary shading of neighboring properties
Net Metering
Many homeowners choose to participate in net metering.
Net metering allows excess electricity produced by your solar panels to be sent back to the utility grid, helping reduce your monthly electric bill.
Contact your electric utility for current interconnection and net metering requirements.
Commercial Solar Facilities
Commercial solar energy facilities designed primarily to sell electricity are regulated differently than residential systems.
These facilities:
- Require a Conditional Use Permit
- Are only permitted in certain zoning districts
- Must obtain all required building permits
- Must meet additional setback, screening, fencing, safety, and decommissioning requirements
Commercial solar facilities are not permitted in residential or mobile home zoning districts.
Variances
If your proposed solar installation cannot meet one or more City requirements, you may apply for a variance through the City’s zoning process.
A variance must be approved before installation begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install solar panels on my house?
Yes. Roof-mounted solar panels are allowed throughout the City when they comply with City regulations.
Can I install solar panels in my yard?
Yes, if your property meets the requirements for a ground-mounted system, including minimum lot size, setbacks, and height limitations.
Can I sell electricity from my home solar system?
Personal solar systems are intended primarily for on-site use. However, you may participate in net metering and receive credit for excess electricity generated.
Do battery backup systems require approval?
Yes. Battery energy storage systems must meet applicable codes, be inspected, and their location must be reported to the Hoopeston Fire Department.
What happens if my installation doesn’t meet the ordinance?
A variance must be approved before installation if your project cannot comply with the ordinance. Non-compliant systems may be subject to enforcement and removal.
Getting Started
If you are considering installing a solar energy system, we recommend contacting the City before purchasing equipment or beginning construction.
City staff can help you determine:
- Whether your project meets zoning requirements
- Which permits are required
- What inspections will be needed
- Whether a variance may be necessary
Contact the City
City of Hoopeston
301 W. Main Street
Hoopeston, IL 60942
Phone: (217) 283-5833
We encourage property owners to contact City Hall early in the planning process to ensure a smooth permit review and installation process.