San Jacinto, CA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Section 17.430.330(B) of the San Jacinto Municipal Code spells out the permit steps for solar panels in the City of San Jacinto, Riverside County, California. The installation of a solar energy system requires the issuance of a zoning clearance by the Director in compliance with Chapter 17.655 (Zoning Clearances), approval of the landscape and irrigation plans in compliance with Chapter 17.325 (Water Efficient Landscape and Irrigation), and the issuance of a building permit.

During review of the zoning clearance application, the Director can require the applicant to submit additional information as the Director deems necessary to determine whether the application meets the section. The applicant must provide it before the application is deemed complete. The final decision of the Director to issue a zoning clearance can be appealed under Chapter 17.715 (Appeals), but the review authority is guided by the criteria in this section, and the appeal hearing is not a public hearing and is not subject to public hearing notice requirements.

The same section sets the equipment and placement standards that the clearance checks. A system can be roof-mounted or ground-mounted. A roof-mounted system cannot exceed the maximum principal or accessory structure height for the underlying zone, and no part can extend beyond the edge of the roof. A ground-mounted system cannot exceed the maximum building height for accessory structures, its surface area counts toward overall structure coverage, and it cannot be located within the required front setback. Setbacks from property lines equal the structure or accessory structure setback of the underlying zone. Mechanical equipment must be screened from adjacent residential property, stay out of the minimum front setback, and meet accessory structure setbacks.

Other conditions apply. A system connected to the utility grid needs written authorization from the local utility company sent to the City. Solar panels must be placed so concentrated solar radiation or glare is not directed onto nearby properties or roadways. Under the solar access rule, a structure, fence, wall or vegetation cannot obstruct more than 10 percent of the absorption area of a system on a neighboring parcel. Water heating systems need certification by the Solar Rating Certification Corporation or another nationally recognized agency.