Chico, CA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Roof panels
- Least-visible placement required
- Wall/ground panels
- Must be screened from view
- Governing section
- CMC § 19.60.100
- State floor
- Solar Rights Act, Gov. Code § 65850.5
Summary
Chico requires new-development solar collectors to be placed in the least visible location and screens wall- or ground-mounted panels from public view, though California's Solar Rights Act overrides these preferences for qualifying residential systems.
If solar collectors are proposed for any new development, the following standards shall apply: A. Roof-mounted solar collectors shall be placed in the least visible location without significantly reducing the operating efficiency of the collectors; B. Wall-mounted and ground-mounted collectors shall be screened from public view, to the maximum extent feasible.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Chico Municipal Code § 19.60.100 sets design standards, not a discretionary approval process, for solar installations tied to new development: roof-mounted collectors must go in "the least visible location without significantly reducing the operating efficiency," wall- and ground-mounted collectors must be screened from public view "to the maximum extent feasible" with color-coordinated materials, and appurtenant plumbing should be attic-installed or screened where feasible. California's Solar Rights Act (Gov. Code § 65850.5) requires cities to approve small residential rooftop solar systems through a ministerial, non-discretionary permit and bars conditions that significantly increase installation cost or decrease efficiency, so Chico's placement and screening preferences apply only to the extent they don't conflict with that state floor.
Violations & Fines
For projects subject to discretionary design review, ignoring the screening/placement standards can lead to redesign conditions; state law bars the city from using § 19.60.100 to deny or unreasonably delay a qualifying residential rooftop system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Chico reject a rooftop solar permit over aesthetics?
Does § 19.60.100 create its own solar permit process?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California solar energy overview
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