District of Columbia Statewide Rule
District of Columbia Solar Panel Permit Rules
Key Facts
- Permitting agency
- DC Department of Buildings (DOB)
- Permits required
- Construction plus separate electrical
- Instant Permit cap
- Rooftop solar up to 15 kW
- Solar Instant Permit fee
- $250
- Electrical work
- Licensed DC electrician required
Summary
Rooftop solar in Washington, DC requires both a construction permit and a separate electrical permit from the Department of Buildings. One- and two-family homes installing systems up to 15 kilowatts can pull an online Instant Permit for same-day approval.
Install new roof mounted solar panel system (limited to no more than 15 Kilowatts)
Full Breakdown
The DC Department of Buildings (DOB) issues solar permits under the 2017 DC Construction Codes. Every rooftop array needs a construction permit plus a separate electrical permit, and a licensed DC electrician must perform the electrical work. Through the Instant Permits program, one- and two-family, non-historic homes can pull a permit online for roof-mounted systems limited to no more than 15 kilowatts; the solar Instant Permit fee is $250. Larger or commercial systems route through DOB's electronic plan review. Row houses and townhouses must notify adjacent neighbors, and a final DOB inspection is required within one year.
Violations & Penalties
Installing solar without the required DOB construction and electrical permits triggers stop-work orders and fines, and failed or missed inspections; unpermitted work must be exposed, re-inspected, and legalized before the system can be energized and interconnected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to install solar panels in DC?
Can I get a same-day solar permit in DC?
Sources
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