Panel Permits: Castro Valley vs San Leandro
How do panel permits rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and San Leandro, CA?
Castro Valley and San Leandro have similar restriction levels.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Alameda County offers 3-business-day solar permitting under AB 2188 and SB 379. Systems must comply with Title 24 and the 2022 Solar Mandate for new homes.
View full Castro Valley rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
San Leandro offers SolarAPP+ instant online permits for residential solar. AB 2188 caps review to 3 business days. Title 24 mandates solar on new homes.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Turnaround | 3 business days (AB 2188) | - |
| Residential fee cap | 450 dollars | - |
| Commercial fee cap | 1,000 dollars | - |
| New homes | Solar Mandate required | - |
| NEM 3.0 | Effective April 15, 2023 | - |
| Instant permit | - | SolarAPP+ platform |
| State law | - | AB 2188 / SB 379 |
| Max review | - | 3 business days |
| New home mandate | - | Title 24 Part 6 |
| Fees | - | Cost-of-service cap |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
How long does solar permitting take?
Most Alameda County jurisdictions approve residential rooftop systems within 3 business days using SolarAPP+ online submittal. Complex or ground-mount systems may take longer.
Does NEM 3.0 make solar not worth it?
Payback periods extended from 5-6 years to 9-10 years under NEM 3.0, but solar plus battery storage remains financially beneficial given high PG&E rates in Alameda County.
San Leandro FAQ
How long does a solar permit take?
Typically same day via SolarAPP+ or within 3 business days for reviewed applications.
Do new San Leandro homes need solar?
Yes. Title 24 Part 6 requires solar PV on nearly all new single-family and low-rise multifamily construction.
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