Clackamas County, OR Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Adopted code
- Oregon Solar Installation Specialty Code
- Adoption citation
- ORS 455.010 through 455.897
- Permit issuance
- Section 9.02.240
- Application expiration
- 180 days with no permit issued
- Permit voids
- 180 days idle or uninspected
- Unpermitted install
- Investigation fee required
Summary
Clackamas County regulates rooftop and ground-mount solar installations under the Oregon Solar Installation Specialty Code, adopted by County Code 9.02.040(M). Installers go through the same permit path as any other specialty-code project: plans reviewed by the Building Codes Division, fees paid before issuance, and permits void if work stalls or goes uninspected for 180 days.
The Clackamas County Building Code consists of the following Specialty Codes as adopted by the State of Oregon, and regulations: ... M. The Oregon Solar Installation Specialty Code as adopted by ORS 455.010 through 455.897, except as modified in this Chapter, shall be enforced as part of this Chapter.
Full Breakdown
02 folds solar energy installations into its Building Code system. 897, and makes it enforceable as part of the chapter except where modified. 240 the applicant files plans and specifications with the Building Codes Division, and the building official issues the permit only once the work and plans conform to the code and the applicable fees are paid. 270 governs how long that approval lasts: an application with no permit issued within 180 days automatically expires, and once a permit is issued, it becomes void if the solar work is not started within 180 days, is suspended or abandoned for 180 days, or is not brought to inspection for a 180-day stretch.
Applicants can request a written extension, up to 90 days on a pending application or up to 180 days on an issued permit, by showing circumstances beyond their control kept the project from moving forward. 320 and are based on the value of the installation. 330 treats the unpermitted installation as a public nuisance.
Violations & Fines
Installing solar panels without a permit forces a special investigation under Section 9.02.280, adding an investigation fee to the eventual permit fee whether or not the county ultimately approves the work. Section 9.02.330 makes the unpermitted installation a public nuisance, with each day it remains uncorrected treated as a separate offense, and the County can pursue abatement, injunction, or a Compliance Hearings Officer case to force removal or correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Clackamas County require a permit for solar panels?
How long does a Clackamas County solar permit stay valid?
What if I install solar panels before getting a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clackamas County
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