Building Development Services & Zoning » Solar Projects

Solar Projects

Building permits for a residential rooftop and ground-mounted photovoltaic(PV) array system are reviewed and issued within 10 business days after a complete permit packet is submitted to the Building Department. Systems not mounted on a roof may take extra time due to a zoning review. Incomplete applications will delay the review process. All work must comply with International Residential Code (2018), International Solar Energy Provisions (2018), National Electrical Code (2017), National Fire Code (2018), and Village of River Forest Zoning Code. The Village of River Forest Code contains no changes, additions or deletions to the International Solar Energy Provisions, 2018 Edition. All work is subject to rough and final electrical & building inspections.

Contractors who perform solar projects must be licensed by the Village of River Frest.  For more information, including a list of currently licensed  solar contractors, click here

Solar Energy Collection Systems Ordinance

The checklist below provides details on what information is required for review. 

Solar permit checklist

Click here and navigate to "Trade Permits" for the application form.

Work hours in the Village of River Forest:

  • 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. - Monday through Friday
  • 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. - Saturdays
  • No work on Sundays, New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving or Christmas