Do I Need A Permit To Install Solar Panels In California

This guidebook focuses on the permit review and approval to install a rooftop solar system.

Do i need a permit to install solar panels in california.

Helping you design and price out your system with the new ca solar mandate in mind. The solar pv requirement only applies to new buildings under three stories tall. Prior to installing solar you ll need to obtain permits from your local government for permission to install. California s 2019 building energy efficiency standards officially take effect on january 1 2020.

Solar panel electrical permits while building permits may deal with the structural engineering of your home the electrical permits focus on how your wiring is set up. Generally you should expect to have to file for an electrical permit a structural or building permit and or a dedicated solar photovoltaic pv permi t. The california solar mandate is part of an initiative by the california energy commission to have at least 50 of the state s energy produced from clean energy sources by 2030. Plan your system when applying for a permit you need to know the size of your system don t buy yet though.

To obtain these you ll often need to provide specifications about your. Getting a permit to install solar panels isn t just about going down to city hall and filling out a form. There may be local state and federal building or safety standards you must comply with. Initial inspection either a structural engineer a licensed electrician or both will need to ensure that your structures have been properly engineered and your wiring is up to code.

This guidebook addresses both solar photovoltaic pv and solar water heating swh technologies. Even if you ve had solar panels installed before the rules may have changed or the rules may be different for your new location so you still. Absolutely and depending on your location and property type cost will vary. This article will focus on what we do best as a distributor of solar equipment.

Do you need a permit in order to install solar panels. It is essential to speak with an experienced. It does not address zoning land use approvals or environmental review that may be required for larger solar projects. Whenever you add something to a home or building it s always best to consult the city on the regulatory codes that govern such actions.

Essentially the building permit is there to make sure that when you do install a solar system your home s structural safety won t be compromised.