Panel Permits: Lancaster vs Los Angeles
How do panel permits rules compare between Lancaster, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Los Angeles has fewer restrictions than Lancaster.
Lancaster, CA
Los Angeles County
Lancaster was the first U.S. city to require solar on new homes. Its Zero Net Energy Home Ordinance (effective Jan 1, 2018) mandates a solar system equivalent to 2 watts per square foot for new residential construction.
View full Lancaster rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Solar PV installations require building and electrical permits from LADBS. Simple residential rooftop systems meeting standard criteria qualify for express permits without plan check review. Ground-mounted panels must comply with fence height limits and zoning setbacks. Roof-mounted panels may project above the maximum roof height per LAMC 12.21.1 B.3(c). CA Solar Rights Act prohibits unreasonable restrictions.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lancaster | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Effective | January 1, 2018 | - |
| Requirement | 2 watts per sq ft | - |
| Compliance Paths | Solar / fee / combo | - |
| First in US | Yes (2017 adoption) | - |
| Permits | - | Building + electrical from LADBS |
| Express Permit | - | Available for standard rooftop installs |
| Height | - | May project above roof per LAMC 12.21.1 |
| State Law | - | CA Solar Rights Act protects installations |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lancaster FAQ
Do new homes in Lancaster need solar panels?
Yes. The Zero Net Energy Home Ordinance (effective Jan 1, 2018) requires new single-family homes to have a solar system equivalent to 2 watts per square foot of conditioned floor area, or pay a mitigation fee in lieu.
Can I pay a fee instead of installing solar?
Yes. Builders can fully pay an in-lieu mitigation fee, or combine partial solar with a partial fee. The combined value must equal the 2 W/sq ft requirement; details set by the city's permit process.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need a permit for solar panels?
Yes, a building and electrical permit is required. Many jurisdictions offer expedited or over-the-counter permits for standard residential rooftop solar systems.
Can my neighbor build something that shades my solar panels?
Many states have solar access laws that protect existing solar installations. Check state law and Los Angeles zoning code for solar easement protections.
Compare other topics
See how Lancaster and Los Angeles compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool