SolSmart
Sharing Successes at NLC’s 2018 City Summit
11/16/2018
SolSmart Designees
Park Forest
Illinois
Population: 21,210
Designation Level:
SolSmart Gold
Year Designated:
Bronze 2017 / Gold 2018
- The Village of Park Forest sponsors a “Sustainability Award” for residents, and solar panels represent one of the nomination factors.
- Adopted a new Unified Development Ordinance that – in clear, unequivocal language – allows wind and solar energy generation in all districts!
- 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
- Provided a streamlined permitting pathway for small PV systems
- Created a streamlined process to approve certain solar permit applications over the counter
