Panel Permits: Reedley vs Selma
How do panel permits rules compare between Reedley, CA and Selma, CA?
Selma has fewer restrictions than Reedley.
Reedley, CA
Fresno County
Solar panel installations in Reedley require a building permit from the Building Division, which reviews plans for compliance with the 2022 California Building Code and local zoning regulations. The city uses an online citizen portal at reedley.portal.iworq.net for permit submissions. Under California Assembly Bill 1414 and Government Code Section 65850.5, Reedley must provide a streamlined, nondiscretionary permitting process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems up to 10 kilowatts, meaning these applications must be approved administratively without discretionary design review. Required submittals typically include equipment specification sheets for UL-listed panels and inverters, structural attachment details showing how the racking system connects to the roof, and an electrical single-line diagram. Fire code setbacks from roof edges and ridges must be maintained for firefighter access. California Title 24 energy standards require solar panels on most new single-family residential construction since 2020.
View full Reedley rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma uses SolarAPP+ for instant residential solar permits. Standard permits require site plan, building plans, and Title 24 docs. AB 2188 streamlined process applies.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Reedley | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Yes, building permit | - |
| Online Portal | reedley.portal.iworq.net | - |
| Streamlined Review | Systems up to 10 kW | - |
| Fire Setback (Ridge) | 3 feet typical | - |
| Building Division | (559) 637-4200 | - |
| Permit System | - | SolarAPP+ (instant issuance) |
| Plan Revisions | - | 3 free revisions |
| Building Code | - | 2022 California Building Code |
| Contact | - | (559) 891-2208 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Reedley FAQ
Do I need a permit for solar panels in Reedley?
Yes. A building permit is required for all solar panel installations. Applications can be submitted through the city's online citizen portal at reedley.portal.iworq.net, or you can contact the Building Division at (559) 637-4200 for assistance.
How long does the solar permit process take in Reedley?
California law requires streamlined, nondiscretionary review for small residential rooftop systems up to 10 kW. These should be processed within a few business days through a checklist-based review. Larger or more complex systems may require additional plan review time.
Are solar panels required on new homes in Reedley?
Yes. Since January 1, 2020, California Title 24 energy standards require solar photovoltaic systems on most new single-family residential construction. The solar requirement is reviewed as part of the building permit for new homes.
Selma FAQ
How do I get a solar panel permit in Selma?
For qualifying residential systems, register at solarapp.nrel.gov, submit your application through SolarAPP+, then upload the approved documents to the Selma Permit Center. Once fees are paid, the permit is issued instantly. Projects not eligible for SolarAPP+ go through the standard plan check process.
How long does it take to get a solar permit in Selma?
Through SolarAPP+, qualifying residential solar permits are issued instantly once the application is completed and fees are paid. Standard solar permits go through the regular plan check process, which may take several business days.
Do I need an inspection after installing solar panels in Selma?
Yes. The Selma Building Department must conduct an inspection to verify structural attachment, electrical connections, and code compliance before the system can be connected to the utility grid.
Compare other topics
See how Reedley and Selma 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