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

030 directs the Building Official to implement an expedited, streamlined permitting process for "small residential solar systems" and to adopt a compliance checklist, which becomes binding on all applicants once approved by the Planning Commission by motion or resolution and published on the City's website. 020(B) defines a qualifying "small residential rooftop solar energy system" as one no larger than 10 kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal, installed on a duplex or single-family dwelling, conforming to state fire, structural and electrical codes, and not exceeding the maximum legal building height.

The checklist may reference the current California Solar Permitting Guidebook adopted by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research. 040(E) requires only a pre-inspection of roof penetrations and a single final inspection, done in a timely manner; a failed final inspection authorizes subsequent inspections. 010 authorizes the City to modify the state Guidebook standards for snow load and high wind. 020(A) as exceeding $1,000 over the specified cost or cutting efficiency by more than 10 percent, with the Building Official required to notify the Director of Economic and Community Development in writing of any such waiver and the reason for it.