Solar Permitting: How to Stay Compliant During the Installation Process
Across the United States, there are 2 million solar panel installations.
If you’re interested in being one of the millions who have solar panels, you’ll have to learn about solar permitting before you can install them.
Thankfully, we have the perfect guide to help you out on solar permits, so make sure you keep reading!
Check Local Requirements
The first thing you’ll need to do is check what the local requirements are for your state and town. Each area can have its own codes and zoning laws surrounding installing solar panels.
For example, you might have to get an electrical permit to say that your solar panel is up to state code. However, some local fire departments also require a permit to make sure you have room to get out of your home in the event that your house catches on fire.
You might even have different areas depending on the town, especially if you live in a historical area. You may also not be allowed to put solar panels on your home if you have an HOA.
Do Inspection
If you can have solar panels, you should have solar installers do an inspection.
If you’re going to have roof-mounted solar panels, make sure that you inspect the roof to ensure it can hold the weight of the panels.
The inspectors will have to look at your home’s structural integrity as well. If you have an older home, they’ll have to check to make sure that the wiring is up to code.
If you’re going to build a new structure to support your solar panels, then you’ll have to have an engineer make sure that it can hold the solar panel up.
Apply for Permits
Once you have a structure to put your solar panels on, you’ll have to start applying for permits.
You’ll most likely need at least a building and an electrical permit to begin with. One need to submit an application to the right agency.
You’ll likely need to pay for these permits. But you might necessarily go to meetings.
When you meet all those requirements and cross all the boxes, then you or your contractor can go and pick up the permits. There should also be paperwork with the permits that have notes about any of the results of the inspections or any more recommended inspections you should do before or after you install the panels.
Whenever you or your contractor is working to install the panels, make sure that you have the panels on-site.
Learn More About Solar Permitting
These are only a few things to know about solar permitting, but there are many more things to consider.
We know that understanding building codes and permitting requirements for solar panel installation can be stressful, but we’re here to help you out.
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