Chino, CA Solar Energy: Expedited Solar Permitting (2026)
Key Facts
- Size limit
- 38.4 kW AC / 30 kW thermal
- Inspections
- One building + one fire
- SolarAPP+ fee
- $25 administrative fee
- Adopted
- Ord. 2022-015; amended 2023-017
Summary
Chino must administratively approve small residential rooftop solar systems (≤38.4 kW) that meet its checklist, using only one building inspection plus a separate fire inspection, or process them instantly through the state's SolarAPP+ portal.
D.For a small residential rooftop solar energy system eligible for expedited review, only one inspection from the building division shall be required, which shall be done in a timely manner. A separate fire inspection is required to be performed by the Chino Valley Independent Fire District. If a small residential rooftop solar energy system fails inspection, a subsequent inspection is authorized; however, the subsequent inspection need not conform to the requirements of this subsection.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38).
Full Breakdown
Chino Municipal Code § 15.46.010, adopted by Ord. 2022-015 and amended by Ord. 2023-017, governs "small residential rooftop solar energy systems": systems no larger than 38.4 kW AC (or 30 kW thermal) on a single or duplex dwelling. Applications may be submitted in person, by mail, or electronically, and a complete application is administratively approved by the building official with no discretionary hearing. Eligible systems get only one building-division inspection, plus a separate fire inspection from the Chino Valley Independent Fire District. Applicants can also use the SolarAPP+ online platform for instant plan review and permit issuance for a $25 administrative fee.
Violations & Fines
An incomplete application draws a written correction notice from the building official; approval does not itself authorize connecting to the utility grid: that requires separate utility approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can I get a solar permit in Chino?
Does an approved solar permit let me connect to the grid?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chino
California rules heatmap·Compare Chino to another location·View the California solar energy overview
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Expedited Solar Permitting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Bernardino County handle expedited solar permitting.