El Cajon's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In El Cajon, California, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Panel Permits

El Cajon offers a streamlined, ministerial solar photovoltaic permit process as required by California AB 2188 and SB 1222. Residential rooftop solar systems meeting standard criteria are processed over-the-counter. The city cannot impose unreasonable conditions that increase costs.

Key details: Process: Streamlined — ministerial review. Residential Rooftop: Over-the-counter eligible. State Laws: AB 2188 and SB 1222. Max Size (OTC): Up to 15 kW standard. Contact: Building Division — 619-441-1726.

Installing solar panels without a permit is a building code violation. The city may require removal or retroactive permitting. However, the permit process is designed to be fast and affordable per state law.

The rules around panel permits in El Cajon lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

HOA Restrictions

California Civil Code Section 714 (the Solar Rights Act) prohibits HOAs and CC&Rs from effectively restricting solar panel installations. HOAs cannot prohibit solar but may impose reasonable restrictions that do not increase cost by more than $1,000 or decrease efficiency by more than 10%.

Key details: State Law: CA Civil Code §714 — Solar Rights Act. HOA Restrictions: Cannot increase cost >$1,000. Efficiency Impact: Cannot decrease by >10%. Roof Access: South-facing cannot be denied. Remedies: Damages + attorney's fees.

HOA restrictions that violate the Solar Rights Act are void and unenforceable. Homeowners may pursue legal action against HOAs that unreasonably restrict solar installations. HOAs may be liable for damages and attorney's fees.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find El Cajon gives residents more flexibility on hoa restrictions.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, El Cajon gives residents more room on solar energy. 2 of the 2 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

Keep in mind that El Cajon can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.