Solar Energy in Ontario, CA (2026)
3 verified solar energy rules for Ontario, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Panel Permits
Ontario's Chapter 8 solar ordinance defines which rooftop systems qualify as a permitted "small residential rooftop solar energy system": no larger than 10 kW AC or 30 kW thermal, installed on a single or duplex dwelling, and within the City's legal building height. Routine maintenance and like-kind replacement need no new permit.
Ontario Small Rooftop Solar Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsOntario Municipal Code § 8-8.02(a)
“Small residential rooftop solar energy system” means solar energy system which meets all of the following: (1) Is no larger than ten (10) kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or thirty (30) kilowatts thermal; (2) Conforms to all applicable state fire, structural, electrical, and other building codes as adopted or amended by the City, and all state and City health and safety standards...
HOA Restrictions
California Civil Code 714 (Solar Rights Act) bars Ontario HOAs from banning rooftop solar, and aesthetic rules cannot add over 1,000 dollars in cost or cut output by more than 10 percent.
Ontario HOA Solar Rules
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Civil Code § 714 (Solar Rights Act)
Civil Code - CIV. 714. (a) Any covenant, restriction, or condition contained in any deed, contract, security instrument, or other instrument affecting the transfer or sale of, or any interest in, real property, and any provision of a governing document, as defined in Section 4150 or 6552, that effectively prohibits or restricts the installation or use of a solar energy system is void and unenfo...
Expedited Solar Permitting
Ontario's Building Department must run a nondiscretionary review for small rooftop solar applications, deem a complete application ready within its process, and issue the permit within three business days. Review is limited to health and safety compliance, and only one inspection is required.
Ontario Expedited Rooftop Solar Permits
Light RestrictionsOntario Municipal Code § 8-8.04(a)-(c)
The Building Department shall adopt an administrative, nondiscretionary review process to expedite the approval of small residential rooftop solar energy system applications within thirty (30) days of the adoption of this chapter. An application for a small residential rooftop solar energy system that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan shall be deemed complete, a...
Looking for San Bernardino County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Ontario city rules.
Solar Energy in San Bernardino County →