Lakeland

In 2018, Lakeland received 22 applications for residential solar permits. In the most recent year, the number increased to 285. The city utility, Lakeland Electric, has about 1,000 solar customers, double the amount since 2020. As interest in solar ramped up, the city looked for ways to streamline the process and make it easier to approve permits, which led them to achieve SolSmart Silver designation.

• Created an online permitting checklist, increasing transparency for community members and solar installers.
• Reviewed local zoning codes and identified restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit solar PV development
• Allowed solar by-right accessory use in all zones (so solar installations don’t require special permits or hearings)
• Cross-trained both inspection and permitting staff on solar PV