Welcome to the Solar Energy Systems Text Amendments project page, where you will find information related to this project. The petitioner is requesting the following zoning ordinance text amendments:

• Section 11-2-2 (Definitions of Words and Terms): add definitions for solar energy systems; and
• Section 11-3-15 (Solar Energy Systems): establish uniform zoning regulations for the location, installation, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning of solar energy systems

Status

The Planning & Zoning Commission conducted a public hearing on Dec. 11 and recommended the City Council approve the requests with the following alterations:

Section B.7 

Issuance Of Permit: A permit for any solar energy system, if subject to the review of the Planning & Zoning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, or City Council, shall not be issued until approval from the review body is forwarded to the building commissioner. A permit shall be issued by the building commissioner if the proposed solar energy system conforms to the provisions of this chapter and the required permit fee has been paid.

Section H 

Appearance: A roof-mounted solar energy system shall, as close as possible, match the color of the roof and contain no signage or advertising visible from the ground. 

Add Section K – Landscaping

Section added to align with the landscaping requirements for commercial solar energy facilities as identified in the Kane County Zoning Ordinance. 

City Council Action

During a Jan. 5 meeting, the City Council approved the request with the revisions provided by the Planning & Zoning Commission, and on the condition that the following revision be added:

Section C - Location

Revised to allow for roof-mounted solar energy systems on the principal building and accessory buildings/structures. 

City Council and Planning & Zoning Commission meetings air live on Geneva Broadcast Network, which can be viewed on Comcast Ch. 10, AT&T U-Verse Ch. 99, or the City’s YouTube channel. Previous meetings are also available to watch on YouTube. Interested parties may sign up to receive email alerts on the project’s status through the “Notify Me” feature found on the City's website. Provide your email and select “Development Projects” to stay informed.

If you have questions, contact our Community Development Department staff.

Last Updated

Jan. 6, 2026