San Diego County, CA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Size cap
- 38.4 kW AC / 30 kW thermal
- Eligible buildings
- single- or two-family dwellings only
- Process
- online automated permitting platform
- Enforced by
- County Building Official
Summary
Unincorporated San Diego County requires a building permit for rooftop solar but streamlines the process for small residential systems up to 38.4 kW AC on single- or two-family homes through an online automated permitting platform under the Building Official.
The building official shall follow a streamlined permitting process for a small residential rooftop solar energy and energy storage systems meeting all of the following requirements: (a) No larger than 38.4 kilowatts alternate current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal. (b) Installed on a single- or two-family dwelling. (c) Satisfying the information requirements specified in a checklist published on the County of San Diego website and substantially conforming to the most current version of the California Solar Permitting Guidebook...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-141: Administrative: Current through Ord. No. 11007 (N.S.), effective 7-10-26 | Regulatory: Current through Ord. No. 11008 (N.S.), effective 7-24-26).
Full Breakdown
Under SEC. 91.1.105.3.1.1, the Building Official must run a streamlined permitting process for small residential rooftop solar energy and energy storage systems that are no larger than 38.4 kilowatts AC nameplate rating (or 30 kilowatts thermal), installed on a single- or two-family dwelling, and that satisfy a County-published checklist substantially conforming to the state's Solar Permitting Guidebook. Qualifying projects can be processed through the County's online automated permitting platform, and the ordinance's adoption included consultation with the County Fire Protection District, which coordinates with unincorporated-area fire departments, so consolidated inspections confirm compliance with all applicable adopted codes.
Violations & Fines
Installing rooftop solar without the required permit is unpermitted construction, subject to a stop-work order and correction under the County's building code; issued permits can also be suspended or revoked under § 91.1.105.6 if work does not conform to the approved plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for rooftop solar in unincorporated San Diego County?
What size solar systems qualify for the streamlined process?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego County to another location·View the California solar energy overview
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