Los Angeles County, CA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit type
- Combined solar energy permit (building + electrical)
- Applicable dwellings
- One- or two-family dwellings
- Fee cap (PV systems)
- Cannot exceed Government Code § 66015 limit
- Inspections required
- One combination inspection (structural, electrical, plumbing)
- System height limit
- Must not exceed maximum legal building height (§ 6807.2)
Summary
Residential rooftop solar installations in unincorporated LA County require a building, electrical, or plumbing permit; a combined solar energy permit covering all three disciplines may be issued for photovoltaic systems.
SECTION 6804 - PERMITS: Upon approval of a permit application by the Building Official, a building, electrical or plumbing permit, as applicable, will be issued for the work described in the application. A combined solar energy permit may be issued for photovoltaic system installation, which will include all building and electrical work. The combined solar energy permit is subject to the requirements of this Code and the Electrical Code. SECTION 6805 - FEES: Permit fees for the installation of small residential rooftop solar energy systems shall be charged according to the applicable fees prescribed in Section 107 of this Code...The combined solar energy permit fee for small residential rooftop photovoltaic systems shall not exceed the amount set forth in Government Code section 66015 or other applicable law.
Full Breakdown
Under Section 6804 of Title 26, once a permit application is approved, the Building Official issues the appropriate building, electrical, or plumbing permit, or a combined solar energy permit for photovoltaic systems (which covers all building and electrical work under one permit). Permit fees are set by Section 107 (building), Section 82-8 of the Electrical Code, and Sections 103.10–103.11 of the Plumbing Code. For small residential rooftop PV systems, the combined permit fee is capped and may not exceed the amount set in Government Code Section 66015. One inspection is required; a combination inspection covers structural, electrical, and plumbing components simultaneously. If the system fails inspection, re-inspection is authorized until the Building Official approves the work.
Violations & Fines
Installing a solar energy system without a required permit is a misdemeanor under Title 26, Section 103.3, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both, for each day of violation. Investigation fees also apply for work performed without a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What permit do I need to install solar panels on my house?
Can the solar panel array be installed above my roofline?
Do I need separate permits for the solar panels and the electrical work?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California solar energy overview
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