Boca Raton, FL

Boca Raton first achieved Bronze designation in 2019 and moved up to Silver in 2021. To reach the higher designation, the city trained staff and increased local capacity to conduct inspections and assist residents with solar projects. Interest is growing in solar energy among local residents, and in the future the city plans to seek new opportunities to install solar on local government property, while also finding additional ways to educate residents about solar.

• 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