Santa Monica, CA Solar Energy: Expedited Solar Permitting (2026)
Key Facts
- State law basis
- California Government Code § 65850.5
- Process
- Administrative (expedited) permitting procedures per City's Solar Energy System Permit Expediting Ordinance
- EV charger parallel
- Expedited EV charging station permits also available under Gov. Code § 65850.7
Summary
Santa Monica provides expedited permit processing for solar energy systems that qualify under California Government Code Section 65850.5, handled through the City's Solar Energy System Permit Expediting Ordinance.
§ 8.08.220. Expedited solar system permitting. Solar energy systems which qualify for expedited permit processing, pursuant to Government Code Section 65850.5, shall be subject to the administrative permitting procedures set forth in the City's Solar Energy System Permit Expediting Ordinance.
Full Breakdown
The City adopted an expedited permitting pathway for qualifying solar energy systems pursuant to state law (California Government Code § 65850.5). Systems that meet the qualifying criteria are processed under a streamlined administrative procedure rather than the standard full building permit review. Separately, electric vehicle charging stations have a parallel expedited process under Government Code § 65850.7. The specific eligibility criteria and procedures are set forth in the City's Solar Energy System Permit Expediting Ordinance.
Violations & Fines
Installation of a solar energy system without the required permit remains a violation of Article 8 of the Municipal Code, punishable as an infraction or misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an expedited solar permit in Santa Monica?
Does every solar installation get expedited processing?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Monica 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.