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

030 as a system no larger than 10 kilowatts AC nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal, installed on a single- or duplex-family dwelling, that conforms to all applicable state fire, structural and electrical codes, and whose panel array does not exceed the maximum legal building height. 040 requires the building official to develop a checklist of every requirement a system must meet to qualify for expedited review, and to publish that checklist and the required permitting documentation on a publicly accessible city website so applicants know exactly what to submit before they apply.

As resources allow, the building division must accept electronic submittal of the permit application and supporting documents and allow an electronic signature instead of a wet signature. Once submitted, the building division determines whether the application is complete and meets the California Building Standards Codes, then must promptly approve or deny it in writing rather than leaving it pending. If approved, the division issues all required permits at that point. 050 caps the field work at a single inspection for systems eligible under the expedited track, unless the installation is found out of compliance with the California Building Standards Codes or a separate fire-safety inspection is required, in which case an additional visit is scheduled. 010, so the underlying structural, electrical and fire requirements still apply to every rooftop system regardless of the expedited timeline.