Permits, Zoning and Net Metering
The local rules to check before you buy a home wind turbine.
Search IncentivesPaperwork stops more home wind projects than technology does. Before you buy a home wind turbine, learn what your county, homeowners association and utility require. The rules are local, so treat this page as a map of the questions to ask, not legal advice.
Zoning and Height Limits
Many zoning codes cap structure height in residential areas; the DOE’s Small Wind Handbook notes that 35 feet is a common limit. Because a turbine needs its rotor well above nearby obstacles, that cap is often the first hurdle. Variances are frequently available, and some counties and states have written small wind ordinances that set clear height and setback rules.
Also check deed restrictions and homeowners association covenants, which can be stricter than zoning.
Permits You Are Likely to Need
- Zoning approval or a variance for height and setbacks.
- A building permit for the tower and foundation, often with engineered drawings.
- An electrical permit and inspection for wiring, disconnects and the inverter.
- Any FAA notice if the tower is near an airport (ask your planning office).
- An interconnection application and agreement with your utility for grid-tied systems.
Starting the conversation with your planning office and neighbors early saves time. Bring a site plan showing the tower, guy anchors, setbacks and the turbine’s certified sound rating.
Utility Interconnection and Net Metering
To connect a home wind turbine system to the grid you need your utility’s approval. Utilities typically require equipment meeting the IEEE 1547 standard, and some ask for proof of liability insurance; the amount varies by state and utility. Ask about net metering: whether it is available, how monthly and annual surpluses are credited, and any fees.
Incentives
State, local and utility incentives come and go, and federal tax rules for home renewable energy have changed in recent years. Search DSIRE, the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency for programs where you live, check the IRS residential clean energy credit page for federal rules, and confirm with a tax professional before you count on any credit. Rural property owners may also want to ask their state energy office or USDA Rural Development about farm and rural energy programs.
Permit and Net Metering Questions
Do I need a permit for a home wind turbine?
Almost always. Expect a building permit for the tower and foundation and an electrical permit for the wiring, plus zoning approval. Your county or city planning office can tell you exactly what applies.
What is net metering?
Net metering lets you use the energy your turbine produces to offset what you draw from the grid across a billing period. Whether it is offered, and how surplus is credited, depends on your state and utility.
Where can I find incentives?
DSIRE, the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency, lists state, local, utility and federal programs. For federal tax rules, check IRS.gov directly.
Find Incentives Where You Live
DSIRE lists state, local, utility and federal programs for renewable energy, searchable by your state.
Search DSIRE