Solar-Enabling Zoning Ordinances in the Southwest

The vast majority of siting and permitting regulations are established at the county and municipal level through zoning ordinances. These local policies play a critical role in enabling or inhibiting – intentionally or unintentionally – solar energy development. Across the southwest, counties are considering revising or drafting ordinances for the first time and navigating the complex technical aspects of solar regulations. CATF seeks to bring clarity to what elements of solar zoning ordinances balance solar development with environmental projections and long-term community goals.

CATF reviewed dozens of solar ordinances in the region and tracked best practices from solar developers, communities, and conservation and wildlife advocates to identify points of consensus around solar development. These fact sheets aggregate and recommend elements of zoning ordinances that enable solar deployment while minimizing negative impacts to communities and wildlife. They also draw on best practices from six counties in the Southwest with exemplary ordinances for siting and permitting renewable energy project.

Spreadsheet: Exemplary Solar Ordinances of the Southwest