Durango, CO

Durango is stand-out solar city. Durango helped lead the Solarize La Plata County campaign which resulted in nearly 100 installations, installed a 19.7 kW solar array at the municipal airport, and collects a $20 solar permitting fee which is well below state and national recommendations. With SolSmart’s assistance, Durango made it faster and easier to install rooftop solar PV by implementing a solar permitting process with a three-day turnaround time.

• 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