Solar Panel Rules in Des Moines, IA (2026)
Solar panel installation rules, mandate status, HOA restrictions, and permit process for Des Moines, IA.
Des Moines, IA does not currently have a solar installation mandate. Solar panels are a permitted use on residential and commercial properties subject to standard building permit requirements. Property owners in Des Moines must obtain a permit before installing solar panels. HOA restrictions on solar are limited by state law. Des Moines offers permit review for residential solar installations. Below you will find the current solar mandate status, HOA rules, permit process, and any historic district restrictions that apply to solar installations in Des Moines.
Solar Mandate Status
No Solar Mandate in Des Moines: Des Moines does not currently have a solar installation mandate for new or existing construction. Installing solar is voluntary and subject to permit requirements. Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) may apply — consult a tax professional for current incentive information. MidAmerican Energy (a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company) has invested heavily in wind and solar in Iowa — the utility is generally supportive of distributed solar. Iowa net metering is available for residential systems. Des Moines's flat topography provides favorable solar exposure. Iowa Wind and Solar and similar regional installers serve the Des Moines market.
HOA Restrictions
HOA Restrictions on Solar in Des Moines: Iowa does not have a strong solar rights law preempting HOA bans. Newer Des Moines suburban subdivision HOAs may restrict solar panel placement. Older Des Moines neighborhoods typically have no HOA.
Permit Process
Permit Process in Des Moines: Des Moines Permit Center electrical permit required for all rooftop solar. MidAmerican Energy interconnection application required for net metering. Iowa net metering available for residential systems. MidAmerican Energy has a long-term 100% renewable energy commitment and is generally cooperative with solar interconnection. Des Moines's solar permitting costs are among the lowest in the nation.
Historic District Considerations
Historic District Considerations in Des Moines: Des Moines Historic Preservation Commission review required for solar visible from public right-of-way on contributing structures in Sherman Hill Historic District and other designated areas. If your property is located in a historic district, contact the Des Moines Community Development Department before designing your solar system — placement restrictions may affect system output.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU (garage apartment or in-law suite) in Des Moines?
Yes. Des Moines's Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 134) allows ADUs in residential zones. Detached ADUs up to 900 sqft are permitted in rear yards. No owner-occupancy is required. One parking space is required per ADU. Des Moines has some of the lowest ADU permitting costs among major US cities — no impact fees and affordable plan review fees. Contact the Permit and Development Center at (515) 283-4200.
What is the Sherman Hill Historic District and how does it affect permits?
Sherman Hill is a Victorian-era residential neighborhood immediately west of the Iowa State Capitol — one of the best-preserved late 19th-century neighborhoods in Iowa. If your home is in the Sherman Hill Historic District, exterior changes (including additions, siding replacements, window changes, and ADU construction visible from the street) require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Des Moines Historic Preservation Commission before you can obtain a building permit. Interior changes do not require historic review. Contact the Des Moines Community Development Department at (515) 283-4182.
Does MidAmerican Energy offer incentives for residential solar in Des Moines?
MidAmerican Energy (a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company) provides net metering for residential solar systems. Iowa does not have a state solar mandate, but MidAmerican has committed to 100% renewable energy for its customers — making them generally cooperative with solar interconnection. A Des Moines building permit and MidAmerican interconnection agreement are required before installing grid-tied solar. Contact MidAmerican Energy's Renewable Energy department or a licensed Iowa solar contractor.
What are the flood risks for Des Moines properties?
Des Moines has significant flood history — the 1993 and 2008 floods were catastrophic, covering portions of downtown and west Des Moines. Properties along the Des Moines River and Raccoon River corridors may be in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) requiring flood insurance and elevated construction standards. Use FEMA's Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) to check your property's flood zone. Des Moines Water Works manages the water supply, and the city has invested in flood control infrastructure since 1993.
What permits do I need for a deck or fence in Des Moines?
Fences under 6 ft in side and rear yards do not require a permit. Fences in front yards or over 6 ft require a permit from the Des Moines Permit Center ($40-$150). All elevated decks (30+ inches from grade) require a building permit. Deck permits cost $75-$400 depending on size. Both can be applied for online at dsm.city. Inspections are required for deck construction.
Source: Des Moines Building Department — Solar Panel Permits. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source