Maui County, HI Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit required for
- Installation or modification of any PV system
- Exception
- One- and two-family dwelling PV systems
- Permitting agency
- Fire prevention bureau
- Cross-reference
- Fire code chapter 11, section 11.12
- First offense fine
- $1,000 per day
- Appeal window
- 5 days to Board of Variances and Appeals
Summary
Maui County requires a Fire Prevention Bureau permit before installing or modifying any photovoltaic system under its amended fire code, with one exception: systems on one- and two-family dwellings are exempt. The permit sits alongside the County's building-permit process and is governed by chapter 11, section 11.12 of the fire code.
1.12.8 Permits required. It is unlawful for any person to use a building or premises or engage in any activities for which a permit is required by this code, without first having obtained that permit. ... 11.Photovoltaic system. Permits will be required as indicated below; fees must be in the annual budget ordinance. See chapter 11, section 11.12 of this code. A photovoltaic permit will be required for the following:11.1For installation or modification of any photovoltaic system. EXCEPTION: Photovoltaic systems installed or modified on one-and two-family dwellings.
Full Breakdown
8, listing eleven categories of activity that require a fire prevention bureau permit before work begins. 12 of the fire code. The code then carves out a specific exception: photovoltaic systems installed or modified on one- and two-family dwellings do not need this fire-code permit, which removes most rooftop residential solar arrays from the requirement while leaving commercial, multifamily, and utility-scale photovoltaic installations subject to it. The fire prevention bureau's photovoltaic sign-off is separate from and in addition to any electrical or building permit issued by the Department of Public Works' Development Services Administration for the same installation, so a commercial solar project on Maui, Molokai, or Lanai typically needs both. 170.
Violations & Fines
Installing or modifying a covered photovoltaic system without the fire prevention bureau permit exposes the owner or contractor to a notice of violation under section 16.04E.170, which carries a fine of up to $2,500 or up to 30 days in jail, or both. Each day a violation continues is a separate offense, billed at $1,000 per day for a first offense and $2,500 per day for a repeat violation within five years. An owner may appeal to the Board of Variances and Appeals within five days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a rooftop solar system on my Maui house need a fire-code permit?
What commercial solar projects need a Maui fire-code PV permit?
What happens if a business installs solar panels without the required permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Maui County
Compare Maui County to another location·View the Hawaii solar energy overview
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