Solar Permits Installation Guidelines
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The Complete Solar Permits Guide
Installing solar panels is a major project that requires plenty of planning and preparation. Solar permits need to be obtained, building codes need to be reviewed and various other hurdles need to be cleared.
To help both solar panels installers and homeowners cut through the confusion – and the red tape – we’ve assembled some of the most frequently asked questions about installing solar panel systems.
- Do solar panels require permits for installation?
- Are solar panel installations subject to local building codes?
- What is the purpose of the required permits?
- Who is responsible for securing permits?
- Who is eligible to apply for a permit?
Understanding Solar Regulations
Are solar panel installations subject to local building codes?
Yes. Although specific regulations vary depending on your location, most solar installations have to comply with all municipal building, electrical and fire codes and must be approved and inspected by local officials.
Do solar panels require permits for installation?
Yes, at least in most cases. Solar installations that are connected to any of the major components of a building, including the electrical, plumbing or structural systems, always require securing the relevant work permits before proceeding. Solar energy systems that aren’t directly connected to a building, such as solar lighting systems and battery chargers, typically don’t require permits. Of course, it’s important to check with the building department first to verify local requirements.
What is the purpose of the required permits?
The building permit process is intended to verify that your planned solar power installation is safe, viable and structurally sound. Similarly, applying for an electrical permit requires demonstrating that the system will be designed and installed to meet all safety regulations.
Who is responsible for securing permits?
The solar panels installers are responsible for obtaining permits and ensuring the project is compliant with all applicable regulations. For homeowners, the charges associated with obtaining the appropriate permits are typically rolled into the overall cost of the installation. Securing permits is simply considered part of the installation process.
How to Get Your Home Solar Panels Permitted
Who is eligible to apply for a solar permits?
In some locations, an application can be done by any property owner or any person acting with the permission of the property owner. In others, an application can only be submitted by a licensed professional contractor. Further complicating matters, some local and state regulations allow anyone to complete an application but require that all work be done by licensed contractors. Consult your local officials for further details.
What does my permit application need to include?
In addition to any completed forms, solar permit applications typically must include accurately scaled site plans, detailed roof plans, electrical diagrams and specification sheets and manufacturer details for the components to be installed. Depending on the municipality and the nature of the installation, it may also be necessary to include things like proof of any required licenses, certificates of insurance and workers’ compensation affidavits.
How many sets of plans should I include?
This requirement varies by municipality. In most cases, you’ll need to include between one and three identical sets of complete plans. Be sure that the plans are clearly legible and sufficiently detailed to confirm that the installation complies with all applicable codes and regulations.
What happens after my solar permits are approved?
Once permits have been issued, the next step is to complete the installation of your solar panel system.
Once the installation is finished, it’s typically necessary to schedule a site inspection with your local government. An official will verify that your installation was done according to the approved plans and that it’s in compliance with all applicable codes.
Once you’ve been approved, the final step is to contact your utility provider for grid interconnection. They’ll conduct their own final assessment before officially connecting your system to the power grid.
FAQs About Solar Installations in New York
As a large and rapidly growing solar market, there are more than 100,000 solar installations in New York. New systems are being installed every day, fueled in part by valuable tax abatements and a streamlined solar permitting process. Still, the installation process is not entirely straightforward.
Here are some common questions you may have when researching how to get your home solar panels permitted.
Am I eligible for the expedited solar permitting process?
You may be able to receive a solar permit very quickly in the Empire State, but only if you meet certain requirements. It’s important to consult your local officials for the full list, but common requirements include the following:
- A rated system capacity of 12 kilowatts or less.
- An installation site located on a permitted roof structure or approved legal accessory structure.
- Compliance with all relevant building, electrical and fire codes.
- A solar installer that holds all licenses required by state and local regulations.
- Equipment that meets all requisite certification standards.
How do I submit an application using the expedited permit process?
If you qualify, you’ll need to include a few things in order to apply. Along with the completed application form, you’ll also need a comprehensive site plan, a three-line electrical diagram and specification sheets for all system components. Additionally, include the permit fee amount and copies of any licenses and insurance certificates required by the municipality. Finally, schedule an inspection after the permit has been approved and the installation has been completed.
What if I have trees obstructing my installation site?
Nearby vegetation growth should always be considered when planning an installation. If existing trees are shading the planned installation area, one option is to trim or remove them. Provided you have permission to do so, simply mark the trees to be removed on the site plan you submit with your permit application.
FAQs About Solar Installations in California
As the national leader in solar energy, there are more solar installations in California than anywhere else. The Golden State is very friendly to renewable energy, but there are still some important things to keep in mind when you’re installing solar in the state. Here are some of the most common questions asked by solar panels installers in California.
Does California have any special requirements for solar installations?
Yes. Although each jurisdiction has its own regulations, many have adopted the recommendations set forth by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. These guidelines, which primarily address issues like siting, system design, signage, access pathways and fire classifications for materials, are designed to mitigate fire risks associated with solar energy systems.
Is there an expedited application process?
Yes. In 2014, the state government of California required that all municipalities adopt a streamlined permitting process that allowed for shorter approval times and a limited number of inspections.
Who is qualified for expedited approval?
In general, there are three basic eligibility requirements for expedited approval. The system must be no larger than 10 kilowatts in capacity, must conform with all local and state regulations and must not exceed the area’s specified maximum building height.
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