Yucaipa, CA Solar Energy: Panel Permits (2026)

Section 15.04.040 adopts the Uniform Code for Solar Energy Installations, 2024 Edition, published by IAPMO, as the Solar Energy Installations Code of the City of Yucaipa. It governs the design, construction, installation, alteration, repair, location, replacement, addition to, use and maintenance of Solar Energy Systems, and it provides for the issuance of permits and collection of fees. A copy is kept in the Building Division of the Development Services Department and is open for public inspection while the code is in force.

The permit process runs through the city's amendments to the California Building Code in § 15.04.015. Section 109.2 names solar permits in its list of permits whose fees are set by the most recent City Council resolution, and the plan review fee set by council resolution must be paid at the time plans and specifications are submitted. A residential permit becomes invalid unless work starts within 365 days after issuance, or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days between required inspections. A commercial permit becomes invalid unless work starts within 180 days. The Building Official can grant only one written extension, for 180 days, on a written request showing justifiable cause.

The electrical side of a solar installation has its own local rule. Under § 15.04.030, Article 690.13(A)(1) of the California Electrical Code requires the PV disconnecting means at a readily accessible location on the outside of a building or structure, nearest to the point of entrance of the system conductors and within 3 feet of the main electrical service meter. When all or part of the PV system is on a detached structure, an additional readily accessible disconnecting means goes at the remote location.

Re-inspection fees apply under Section 109.8 when work called for inspection is not complete, though not the first time a job is rejected, and the City Council is the board of appeals under Section 113.3.