SolSmart Designees
South Bend
Indiana
Population: 102,026
Designation Level:
SolSmart Gold
Year Designated:
Bronze 2017 / Gold 2021
- 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 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
- Provided a streamlined permitting pathway for small PV systems
