Solar Permits

The City of Berkeley encourages the installation of renewable systems through low permit fees for solar photovoltaic (PV) installations and standardized solar permitting guidelines.

If you are installing a small solar rooftop system (10kW AC or less) on a single family or duplex home, you may qualify to apply for a permit through a streamlined process. Check whether your project is eligible for a streamlined permit process using the Eligibility Checklist.

Projects eligible for the streamlined solar permit process can apply online

If you are able to mark all items “Yes” on the Eligibility Checklist, you are eligible for the streamlined solar permitting process.

To apply, gather the required documents listed below:

• Code Compliance Checklist for Solar Photovoltaic
• Schematic, Structural, and Electrical Plans
• Permit Application (Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Sign)

Review the Requirements for Streamlined Review document for more guidance about each of these requirements.

Your options to submit are:

• Submit electronically using Permits Online
• Submit by email to solar@cityofberkeley.info
• Submit in person by making an appointment at the Permit Service Center

Projects not eligible for the streamlined solar permit process will apply at the Permit Service Center

If you mark “No” on any of the items on the Eligibility Checklist, you are not eligible for the streamlined solar permitting process.

To apply, gather the required documents listed below:

• Cover Sheet
• Schematic and Electrical Plans
• Permit Application (Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Sign)
• Roof Plan and Cross-Section
• Manufacturer’s Specification Sheets

Review the Solar Photovoltaic System Submittal Requirements for more guidance about each of these requirements.

To submit, make an appointment with the Permit Service Center.