Bellflower, CA Solar Energy: Expedited Solar Permitting (2026)

Review of an application shall be limited to the Building Official's review of whether the application meets the checklist and California Building Standards Code requirements. However, if the Building Official makes a finding, based on substantial evidence, that the solar energy system could have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety, the applicant may be required to apply for a "use" permit.

C. In the case that a "use" permit to install a solar energy system is required, its application may not be denied unless written findings are made based upon substantial evidence in the record that the proposed installation would have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety, and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact. The findings shall include the basis for the rejection of potential feasible alternatives of preventing the adverse impact.

D. In most cases only one consolidated inspection shall be required and shall be performed, in a timely manner, for small residential rooftop solar energy systems. If a small residential rooftop solar energy system fails an inspection, subsequent inspection(s) shall be authorized but need not conform to the requirements of this chapter.

E. The Building Official shall not condition approval for any solar energy system on the approval of a solar energy system by an association, as that term is defined in Section 4080 of the California Civil Code.