El Cerrito, CA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Unincorporated Contra Costa County processes residential rooftop solar permits under California AB 2188 (2014), which requires expedited permitting of standard small residential solar energy systems. The County has adopted a streamlined checklist and online submittal process, and participates in SolarAPP+ (the DOE/NREL automated permit platform), allowing qualifying projects to receive a permit in as little as one business day. By state law, the permit must be issued within three business days of a complete application for standard rooftop PV systems (single-family, 10 kW DC or less). Plan review focuses on structural, fire-setback (CBC/CRC Section R324 roof access and pathway requirements), and electrical (CEC 690) compliance. Fees are capped by state law at amounts reflecting actual administrative cost. Battery energy storage systems (ESS, e.g., Tesla Powerwall) require a separate or combined electrical permit under NEC Article 706 and CRC R328. Title 24 of the California Building Code requires new single-family homes to include solar PV systems under the 2019 Energy Code. The California Solar Rights Act (Civil Code 714) prevents HOAs and CC&Rs from effectively prohibiting residential solar. After permit, a County inspection and PG&E Permission to Operate (PTO) complete the process.