Santa Maria, CA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

040 sets the substantive technical requirements for solar permits: all systems must meet applicable health and safety standards imposed by the state and by the City's Community Development and Fire Departments; systems that produce electricity must meet safety and performance standards set by the California Electrical Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories, and, where applicable, Public Utilities Commission safety and reliability rules; and systems that heat water for single-family residences, commercial use, or swimming pools must be certified by an accredited listing agency as defined by the California Plumbing and Mechanical Code.

050 governs the application itself: all required documents must be posted on the City's public website, electronic submittal by email or internet must be available to every applicant, and an electronic signature is accepted in lieu of a wet signature. Community Development must adopt a standard plan and compliance checklist substantially conforming to the state's California Solar Permitting Guidebook. 55, 66015, and 66016, and Health and Safety Code Section 17951, which cap what the City can charge to its actual, reasonable cost of processing.