Multnomah County, OR Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Solar photovoltaic installations in Multnomah County require both a building permit (for structural attachment) and an electrical permit (for the DC/AC system and interconnection) under the Oregon Residential Specialty Code and OAR 918-310 Solar Electric Specialty Code. In unincorporated Multnomah County, permits are issued through the Land Use & Transportation Building Division at 1600 SE 190th Ave, Portland; typical residential permit fees total $250-$500 depending on system size. Portland residential solar is permitted through the Bureau of Development Services online — standard rooftop systems under 20 kW on one/two-family dwellings qualify for same-day Solar Simplified permit ($232 base fee in 2024). Oregon Fire Code 2022 Section 1204 requires 3-foot setbacks from roof ridges and a 3-foot clear pathway on at least one side of ridges for firefighter access (exceptions for roofs under 1,000 sq ft). Net metering is governed by ORS 757.300 and administered by Portland General Electric or Pacific Power — interconnection applications (Schedule 136 for PGE) must be filed before the system is energized. Oregon's Solar Rights law ORS 105.880-105.895 protects solar access from new neighboring structures where solar easements are recorded. Residential solar rebates through Energy Trust of Oregon typically $0.20-$0.40/W up to $3,600. Systems receive federal Investment Tax Credit.