Do I Need A Permit To Install Solar Panels In California

Even among rooftop solar panel options there s some flexibility.

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

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. As a result permitting for these small and simple solar projects should be as simple and standardized as possible. But the good news is that it s relatively simple and straightforward to do especially when you work with a licensed san diego solar panel installer. Apply for proper permitsfor solar pv installations you will likely need to purchase a building permit an electrical permit or both to legally begin installation.

New homes can either get their electricity from rooftop panels or from a shared solar grid that serves multiple homes. Solar energy systems have been installed in california for decades and their technology as well as the methods to install and maintain them is well established. Remember that regulations can vary from state to state so it s important that you follow the regulations specific to the state in which you intend to add solar panels to your building. These primarily deal with the structural integrity of the existing home that the panels will be installed onto.

Generally you should expect to have to file for an electrical permit a structural or building permit and or a dedicated solar photovoltaic pv permit. To obtain these you ll often need to provide specifications about your proposed solar equipment and system design. Solar panel building permits almost any home addition is going to require building permits and solar panels are no exception. The solar mandate doesn t require all new homes to have solar panels.

Any addition to your home is likely to require a permit and adding anything including photovoltaic panels without learning about and applying for the proper permissions can have serious consequences. First you submit a permit application to a local permitting agency known within government as the enforcing agency while the enforcing agency is considering your application you should contact the local utility provider to request permission to connect the solar installation to the local distribution grid. By now you might have heard that california passed a law requiring all newly built homes to be equipped with a solar power system. Prior to installing solar you ll need to obtain permits from your local government for permission to install.