Solar Energy in San Diego County, CA (2026)

3 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 8 cities in San Diego County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of San Diego County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Panel Permits

Unincorporated San Diego County requires a building permit for rooftop solar but streamlines the process for small residential systems up to 38.4 kW AC on single- or two-family homes through an online automated permitting platform under the Building Official.

San Diego County Solar Panel Permit Process

Some Restrictions

San Diego County Code § 91.1.105.3.1.1

The building official shall follow a streamlined permitting process for a small residential rooftop solar energy and energy storage systems meeting all of the following requirements: (a) No larger than 38.4 kilowatts alternate current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal. (b) Installed on a single- or two-family dwelling. (c) Satisfying the information requirements specified in a checklist ...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

HOA Restrictions

California's Solar Rights Act (Civil Code §714) protects homeowners in unincorporated San Diego County from HOA restrictions that effectively prohibit solar installations. HOAs may impose reasonable restrictions but cannot significantly increase cost or reduce efficiency.

San Diego County Solar HOA Protections

Few Restrictions

California Civil Code § 714 (Solar Rights Act — limits on covenants and restrictions on solar energy systems)

nership [707 - 714.7] ( Article 2 enacted 1872. ) 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 ...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Expedited Solar Permitting

Unincorporated San Diego County must fast-track permits for small residential rooftop solar and storage systems up to 38.4 kW AC.

San Diego County Expedited Solar Permits

Few Restrictions

San Diego County Code § 91.1.105.3.1.1

The building official shall follow a streamlined permitting process for a small residential rooftop solar energy and energy storage systems meeting all of the following requirements: (a) No larger than 38.4 kilowatts alternate current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal. (b) Installed on a single- or two-family dwelling.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗