Do I Need A Permit To Install Solar Panels In California?

Do you need a permit to install solar panels in California? This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the permitting requirements, process, costs, and timeline for installing residential solar panels in California. We’ll outline the different types of permits needed, key steps in the permitting process, typical costs and duration, and resources to help navigate permitting solar panels in California.

Permit Requirements

In general, residential solar installations in California require building permits, electrical permits, and/or planning permits depending on the type and size of the system. California law requires permits for solar energy systems that:

• Produce more than 10 kW (kilowatts)



• Serve as a primary source of power for a dwelling
• Use batteries for energy storage
• Connect to the electrical service panel of a home
• Mount on the roof

Smaller, off-grid systems like portable solar generators may not need permits if they are under 10 kW. But most standard residential solar panel installations will require permits since they connect to the home’s electrical system and roof.

Overall, permits are required for solar installations that interact with a home’s electrical system or make structural changes to the property. Not obtaining proper permits can lead to fines, removal of the system, and issues with home insurance or selling the property.

Permitting Process

Obtaining a solar permit in California involves a few key steps:

Step 1: Determine what permits you need for your specific solar installation. This usually includes a building permit from your local building department and an electrical permit. You may also need a planning/zoning permit or fire department permit depending on local requirements.

Step 2: Prepare the required permit application documents. This includes a completed permit application form, solar system plans and diagrams, equipment specs and listings, and any other required attachments. Most jurisdictions provide permit application checklists.

Step 3: Submit the completed permit application and documents to the appropriate permitting agency. This is typically done in-person at the building department. Many areas now allow online submittal.

Step 4: The permitting agency reviews the application and plans to ensure they meet all code requirements. You may need to respond to any requests for clarification or changes.

Step 5: Once approved, you pay the permit fees and the permits are issued. This authorizes you to proceed with the solar installation.

Step 6: After the system is installed, schedule the required inspections. This verifies code compliance.

Step 7: When the installation passes inspection, the jurisdiction grants final permit approval and clearance to operate the solar system.

Building Permits

Building permits are typically required when installing rooftop solar panels in California. The purpose of the building permit is to ensure the solar array is properly secured and does not pose a structural risk to the roof or home.

The building department will review the mounting system design, number of panels, total weight load, and wind/seismic considerations. They will evaluate whether the roof can structurally support the new solar array.

For roof-mounted systems, the mounting equipment must penetrate the roof surface to secure the panels. The building department will want to ensure these penetrations are properly sealed and waterproofed as part of the solar installation. This helps prevent potential leaks or water damage.

In addition, many homeowners associations (HOAs) in California also require approval for any external changes to the home. The building permit application may need to include approval documentation from the HOA before it can be processed.

Overall, building permits provide an important step for ensuring rooftop solar installations meet local structural and construction codes. They help protect homeowners by having an expert review the system design and installation methods before work begins.

Electrical Permits

In most cases, you will need an electrical permit to install solar panels in California. This is because solar panels involve electrical wiring and connections to your home’s electrical system.

The purpose of the electrical permit is to ensure the solar installation meets all safety and code requirements. An electrical inspector will review the planned solar wiring and components to make sure they are compliant.

Common items the electrical inspector will look for include:

• Proper sizing of wires, conduits, and overcurrent devices
• Adequate conductor ampacity ratings
• Proper grounding and bonding
• Compliant labeling and markings
• Sufficient working space around equipment

The inspector will also verify the solar components have necessary UL listings and meet code requirements. This helps minimize any fire or electrocution risks from the electrical system.

In some cases, smaller solar installations may be eligible for expedited electrical permitting. But in general, expect to apply for an electrical permit before your solar installation can be approved.

## Planning Permits

Planning or zoning permits are typically required for larger solar installations or if the solar panels will cause a significant change to the look and design of the home. This includes solar panels that are installed over 20% of the roof area or protrude more than 10 inches off the roof. Most California cities and counties have design and aesthetic requirements for solar installations as part of their building and zoning codes. Planning permits involve submitting project plans to your local planning or building department for design review approval.

The purpose of planning permits is to make sure the solar installation meets local zoning requirements related to:

• Roof coverage limits
• Setback rules
• Height restrictions
• Aesthetic rules and design standards

Planning permit requirements can vary significantly by jurisdiction. Some cities require planning permits for any rooftop solar installation while others are more lenient. It’s important to check with your local planning or building department to understand the specific planning permit rules in your area.

Permit Costs

The costs for solar panel permits in California vary by municipality. However, you can expect to pay the following typical fees:

• Building permit fee – $200-$500

• Electrical permit fee per panel – $10-$20

• Planning/zoning permit fee – $50-$150

There are usually base permit fees plus additional charges per solar panel or based on the total system size. Exact permit costs depend on factors like:

• City or county jurisdiction

• Number of solar panels

• Total system capacity

Some local governments offer discounts or waive fees for residential solar permits. It’s a good idea to check with your local permitting office for their specific fees.

Overall, you can plan on spending $500-$1000 in permit fees for a typical residential solar panel system. The investment pays off over time from utility bill savings.

Permit Timeline

The amount of time it takes to get solar panel permits approved can vary greatly depending on your local jurisdiction. Here are some general timelines to expect:

Building Permit – Allow 2-4 weeks for your building permit application to be reviewed and approved. Some jurisdictions may be faster or slower. The building department will let you know if any corrections or additional information is needed to approve the permit.

Electrical Permit – Expect 1-3 weeks for an electrical permit, depending on the jurisdiction. The process is similar to the building permit. The electrical inspector will review your plans to ensure they meet code requirements.

Planning/Zoning Permit – For some installations, 1-4 weeks may be required for planning and zoning review. This permit ensures your solar panels comply with local zoning ordinances, setbacks, design guidelines, etc.

Total Timeline – For a typical residential solar installation permitting process, expect 3-8 weeks from permit application to final approval. Larger commercial projects often take longer. Track your application and follow up if needed to keep the process moving efficiently.

Permitting Resources

There are a few resources that can help guide you through the solar permitting process in California:

• Go Solar California (gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov) – This state-sponsored website has information on local permitting requirements, a permitting guidebook, and resources for understanding the full solar process.

• Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (dsireusa.org) – Search this database by your address to find state, local, utility and federal incentives and policies for solar in your area.

• CALSSA (calssa.org) – The California Solar & Storage Association offers educational resources and a Find an Installer directory to connect with local solar professionals.

• Your Local Building Department – Contact your city or county building department to learn about specific solar permitting requirements in your jurisdiction.

Consulting these resources can help demystify the permitting process and set your solar installation up for success.

Conclusion

In summary, you will likely need permits to install solar panels in California, both from your local building department and potentially your local utility as well. The specific permits required depend on factors like whether your system is roof-mounted or ground-mounted, the size of the system, and whether you plan to connect to the electric grid. Key permits that are commonly required include building permits, electrical permits, and planning permits. Be sure to check with your local jurisdiction to confirm exactly what permits you’ll need. The permitting process involves submitting an application with drawings and other documentation, paying permit fees, and undergoing inspections. This ensures your system meets all code and safety requirements. While permits add steps and costs to your solar installation, they are mandatory in most cases. Carefully going through the permitting process helps ensure your system operates safely and legally.