San Rafael, CA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- System size limit
- 10 kW AC or 30 kW thermal
- Standard review time
- Same day or next business day
- Electronic applications
- Reviewed within 3 business days
- Governing chapter
- SRMC Chapter 12.320
Summary
San Rafael must issue a building permit for small rooftop solar systems the same day or next day over the counter, or within three business days for electronic applications, under its expedited solar permitting ordinance.
Upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan, the building official or his designee shall issue a building permit or other nondiscretionary permit the same day or the next day, for an application submitted over-the-counter, or within three (3) business days for applications that have been filed electronically.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 37).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 12.320 implements the state Solar Rights Act and AB 2188 with an expedited, largely ministerial permitting process for small residential rooftop solar systems: those no larger than 10 kW AC (or 30 kW thermal) installed on a single-family home or duplex. Review is limited to checking code compliance and the standard checklist; a discretionary use permit is required only if the building official finds a specific, adverse health or safety impact with no feasible mitigation, appealable to the planning commission, or if the property is on the city's historic resources list.
Violations & Fines
Skipping the required permit exposes an installer to standard building code enforcement, stop-work orders and permit revocation, and a system found to pose a specific, adverse safety impact can be denied outright.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does San Rafael require a permit for rooftop solar?
Can San Rafael deny a compliant solar permit application?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Rafael
California rules heatmap·Compare San Rafael to another location·View the California solar energy overview
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