Guide
Solar FAQ
July 16, 2024
What is solar energy?
What is solar energy?
The sun is a powerful and renewable source of energy, capable of sustaining life on Earth while also offering a clean and sustainable solution to our energy needs. In just one hour, the sun delivers more energy to our planet than the entire global population consumes in a year. This abundant energy can be harnessed and converted into electricity using solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, which transform sunlight into usable power.
How does solar energy work and why should we use solar energy?
PV modules absorb sunlight and convert the energy into a usable form of electrical current. The sun shines all over the world, making solar electricity viable anywhere. Because solar can be paired with batteries for energy storage, solar electric systems can be independent of the utility grid, making them cost-effective for remote locations. Solar modules have no moving parts making maintenance costs low, and they are highly reliable with a long service life of 25+ years of guaranteed electricity. Solar electricity relies on the sun as its fuel source, so there is no need to drill for petroleum-based fuels, refine them, or deliver them to the site. As you can see, there are a lot of advantages of solar energy.
The solar industry is growing
What is a solar design and permit service?
A solar design and permit service assists homeowners and businesses in creating a customized solar energy system plan and obtaining the necessary permits from local authorities to ensure compliance with regulations.
Before beginning a solar installation, contractors must obtain approval from the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Since solar permit requirements and building codes vary by location, installers need to be familiar with regional regulations and any zoning restrictions that may apply.
In some areas, permit fees can be significant, increasing overall project costs. However, efforts are being made in certain cities and states to streamline the permitting process, making it more efficient and cost-effective.
With over a decade of experience in solar permitting, our team specializes in navigating the process efficiently. We help minimize delays, reduce unnecessary costs, and ensure your projects move forward smoothly.
Why do I need a permit for my solar installation?
Permits are required to ensure that your solar installation meets local building codes, safety standards, and zoning laws. This helps protect your investment and ensures the system operates safely and efficiently.
How long does the solar permitting process take?
The duration of the permitting process can vary based on your location and the complexity of the project. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Do I need a permit for both residential and commercial solar projects?
Yes, both residential and commercial solar projects generally require permits. The specific requirements may vary based on local regulations.
What are the benefits of using a professional solar design and permitting service?
Using a professional service can save you time, ensure compliance with regulations, provide expert design tailored to your property, and help avoid potential issues during the permitting process.
Solar Panel Permit Requirements for Condominiums
For condominiums, the exterior of the building, including the roof, is typically a shared space. This means that solar permit approval will often be required from the condominium association, even in duplexes or townhomes. These shared ownership structures can complicate the solar permitting process, so coordination with the association is crucial for approval.
Who Approves Solar Permit Applications?
The approval process for solar permits varies based on the size of the solar PV system and the specific requirements of the city or town where the installation takes place. Securing a permit may involve coordination with the local building department, fire department, zoning board, or other regulatory agencies.
For smaller residential projects, providing basic details such as the solar panels, inverter, racking system, system capacity, and project cost may be enough. However, many jurisdictions require a detailed site plan and comprehensive solar PV plan sets.
Some municipalities also mandate that solar designs include a Professional Engineer (PE) stamp to verify compliance with electrical and structural codes. This requirement is more common for larger commercial projects, which may need specialized solar engineering services if the company lacks in-house expertise. Our network of licensed solar engineers ensures compliance with regulations across all 50 states.
What Are Solar Panel Permit Costs?
Like the local permitting process, solar permitting fees vary widely. In many areas, the solar permit cost is based on the total system size and is lower for residential solar installations.
According to 2022 SolarTRACE data for solar systems under 10 kilowatts, a residential solar permit usually costs between $150 and $350 in many major U.S. cities. However, residential solar permit costs in New York City are often nearly $1,000 compared to $160 in Los Angeles. Some states, including California and Colorado, have set limits on solar permitting costs to help encourage renewable energy use.
Solar Permit Costs in Colorado
The Fair Permit Act, passed in 2011 with bipartisan support, limits permitting fees to $500 for residential solar installations and $1,000 for commercial solar projects. This cap helps keep costs manageable for homeowners and businesses investing in clean energy.
Solar Permit Costs in California
California has established fee limits for solar permits to streamline the process and make solar energy more accessible. For residential PV systems up to 15 kW, the maximum permit fee is $450. For larger systems, the cost increases by $15 per kW over 15 kW.
For commercial solar projects:
- Systems up to 50 kW have a permit cap of $1,000.
- Projects between 50 kW and 250 kW follow a structure of $1,000 + $7 per kW above 50 kW.
- Larger systems exceeding 250 kW are capped at $2,400 + $5 per kW over 250 kW.
These regulations help ensure fair permitting costs while supporting the growth of solar energy across the state.
Factors That Influence Solar Permit Costs
The total cost of a solar permit depends on several factors, including:
- Location: Different municipalities and states have unique permitting requirements.
- System Size: Larger solar arrays may require more detailed engineering plans.
- Project Complexity: Roof-mounted, ground-mounted, and battery-integrated systems can have different permit requirements.
- Inspections & Additional Fees: Some jurisdictions require extra site inspections, which can add to the cost.
Commercial & Utility-Scale Solar Permit Requirements
For larger solar installations, the permitting process is often more complex. Many commercial projects require:
- Professional Engineer (PE) Stamps: Some municipalities require an engineer’s certification for compliance with electrical and structural codes.
- Land Use Approvals: Large ground-mounted solar projects may need additional zoning reviews.
- Environmental Agency Approvals: If installing solar on protected land, such as a capped landfill, permits may be needed from environmental regulatory agencies.
What Happens If a Solar Permit Is Denied?
If a solar permit is denied, it may delay or even prevent installation. The first step is identifying the reason for the denial and addressing the issue.
Common reasons for permit denials include:
- Non-compliance with local building codes – Adjusting the design to meet regulations may resolve the issue.
- Homeowners’ Association (HOA) restrictions – Some states have solar access laws that protect homeowners’ rights to install solar.
- Historic building restrictions – Modifications such as concealing panels or using solar shingles may be necessary.
- Zoning restrictions – Some areas prohibit commercial solar farms, but creative solutions like pollinator-friendly landscaping or grazing animals can help meet local concerns.
How NexaSun Can Help With Solar Permits
Navigating the solar permitting process can be challenging, but NexaSun provides expert support to keep your project on track.
Our services include:
✅ Reviewing Local Permit Requirements – Our team ensures your project meets all necessary regulations.
✅ Design Modifications – If a permit is denied due to design issues, we can adjust your plans to comply with local codes.
✅ Direct Communication with Permitting Authorities – We facilitate discussions with AHJs to resolve issues and prevent delays.
✅ Comprehensive Documentation Support – We help ensure all required documents, including engineering designs and electrical schematics, are complete and accurate.
Meeting Solar Permit Requirements with NexaSun
Being proactive with solar permitting can save time and prevent project delays. If you’re working on multiple installations across different regions, staying informed about local regulations is essential. Keeping track of zoning laws, design requirements, and permitting timelines will help keep your projects running smoothly.
At NexaSun, we have a network of licensed engineers and solar permitting experts ready to assist you. Whether you need solar plans, PE stamps, or project consultation, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get started!
