Los Angeles, CA Solar Energy: Expedited Solar Permitting (2026)
Key Facts
- Max system size for streamlined review
- 10 kW AC nameplate or 30 kW thermal
- Eligible structures
- Single-family or duplex dwellings only
- Maximum inspections
- One inspection (second only if first fails)
- Online submission
- Required – electronic signatures accepted in lieu of wet signatures
- Section added
- Ord. No. 183,892, effective 11/8/15
Summary
Small residential rooftop solar systems up to 10 kW (or 30 kW thermal) on single- or duplex-family homes qualify for LA's streamlined permitting process, capped at one inspection and accepting online applications.
91.106.5. Solar Permitting. (Added by Ord. No. 183,892, Eff. 11/8/15.)
91.106.5.1. Streamlined Permitting Process for Small Residential Rooftop Solar Energy Systems. A solar energy system, as defined in California Civil Code Section 801.5(a), that satisfies all of the following requirements shall be eligible for streamlined permitting process:
1. It is no larger than 10 kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal;
2. It conforms to all applicable state and local fire, structural, electrical and other building codes;
3. It meets all applicable safety and performance standards established by the California Electrical Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories and, where applicable, rules of the Public Utilities Commission regarding safety and reliability;
4. It is installed on a single or duplex family dwelling; and
5. Its solar panels or module arrays do not exceed the maximum legal building height, which includes the height allowances provided by Section 12.21.1 B.3.(c) of the Los Angeles Municipal Code.
...a solar energy system eligible for streamlined review shall be subject to no more than one inspection...
Full Breakdown
Under LAMC § 91.106.5.1, a solar energy system is eligible for streamlined review if it is no larger than 10 kW AC nameplate (or 30 kW thermal), conforms to applicable building codes and safety standards, is installed on a single or duplex family dwelling, and its panels do not exceed maximum legal building height. The Department must publish all required documentation and a checklist online, allow electronic submission and e-signatures, and issue permits promptly once an application is confirmed complete. Only one inspection is allowed; a subsequent inspection is permitted only if the first fails. The Department may deny the expedited process only upon a specific, quantifiable finding of adverse impact on public health or safety.
Violations & Fines
No specific fine schedule for solar permit violations in this section; unpermitted work is a code violation subject to Department enforcement under LAMC § 91.103.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for rooftop solar on my house?
What height can solar panels reach?
Can the City deny the streamlined permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles to another location·View the California solar energy overview
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Expedited Solar Permitting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle expedited solar permitting.