Redding, CA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

020 defines a small residential rooftop solar energy system as one no larger than ten kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or thirty kilowatts thermal, installed on a single or duplex family dwelling, that conforms to state fire, structural, and electrical codes and Civil Code Section 714(c)(3), and whose panel array does not exceed the maximum legal building height. Before applying, the applicant must verify, using standard engineering evaluation techniques, that the roof support structure can carry the system's wind, seismic, and dead and live loads, and must verify at their own cost, using standard electrical inspection techniques, that the existing wiring, grounding, bonding, and panel sizing can carry the new photovoltaic load.

Applications may be submitted in person, by mail, or electronically with an electronic signature accepted in place of a wet signature. Once the building official confirms the application and supporting documents satisfy the checklist, the official must administratively approve the application and issue all required permits; that approval does not authorize the applicant to energize or connect the system to the Redding Electric Utility grid, which requires separate REU approval or permission. 5(b)-(c) if the building official finds, based on substantial evidence, that the system could have a specific, adverse impact on public health and safety.