Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections runs Solar Express, an over-the-counter same-day permit pathway for typical residential rooftop PV installations under SMC Title 22. Washington HB-1117 requires statewide expedited solar permitting.
Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) created the Solar Express program for one- and two-family rooftop photovoltaic systems meeting standard structural and electrical criteria (single string, under 30 kW, no major reroof). Eligible projects use a streamlined application reviewed at the SDCI Applicant Services Center, often issued same day. SolarAPP+, the federal automated permit tool, is now accepted by SDCI for additional speed. Washington HB-1117 (2023) requires every jurisdiction to adopt a permitting timeline of 21 business days for residential systems and bars excessive fees. Seattle City Light handles separate net-metering interconnection paperwork. Master Use Permits are not required for rooftop PV; landmark properties need additional Landmarks Preservation Board review. Combined permit fees typically run $300-700.
Installing PV without permit: SDCI stop-work order plus 2x permit fee retroactively. Energizing without final inspection and SCL meter swap: utility may disconnect service.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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See how Seattle's expedited solar permitting rules stack up against other locations.
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