Solar Roof Permits and Approval

Solar Roof Permits;

If you have a PV system installed, you’ll need to make sure you have the proper permits and approvals before you begin work. Your installer should be able to handle most of these details, but you should be familiar with them as well to make sure you have everything you need.

CODES, COVENANTS, AND RESTRICTIONS: Often called CC&Rs, these are requirements imposed by neighborhoods or local jurisdictions that often govern the aesthetics of a project. If CC&Rs are in place in your area, you may need to submit plans and obtain approval before you can begin work. Check with your neighborhood association or town council to find out if there are any applicable CC&Rs.

ELECTRICAL AND STRUCTURAL PERMITS: The most common permit you’ll need for your PV system is an electrical permit. Photovoltaic systems are included in the National Electrical Code in Article 690. Your installer should be familiar with this and ensure you have the proper permit before work commences.

Also, you should determine if you’ll need a structural permit as well. Normally, structural permits are issued if it is deemed that the project will have a significant impact on an existing structure or involve a new structure that could put people or property at risk if the structure collapsed.

A GOOD RULE OF THUMB:

If your home is less than 30 years old, it should not need structural enhancements as long as the PV system weighs less than five pounds, per square foot. Most PV systems meet this weight restriction. However, if you have two layers of shingles on your roof, you must remove both layers and install new shingles before you install a system.

Solar Roof Permits

UTILITY INTERCONNECTION STANDARDS AND CONTRACTS: In order to be connected to the utility grid, you must follow interconnection standards as set out in Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) 929-2000 www.ieee.org It is vital that you inform your utility as early as possible that you will be installing a grid-connected PV system and adhere to their rules exactly. Your PV installer should be familiar with entering into an interconnection agreement with your utility company.

In order to be connected to the grid, you and your installer will need to complete a contract with the utility company. This contract includes important system information and shows that you understand your responsibilities in running and maintaining your system. Normally, the contract will be finalized once the utility confirms that the equipment has been installed properly and that all requirements have been met.

One requirement of the interconnection agreement is that you have a minimum level of insurance in place. This should be covered by your current homeowner’s insurance policy, but make sure your current coverage is sufficient to meet the interconnection requirements.

You will also need to complete a net metering agreement with the utility for residential systems of 10kW or less. Interconnecting a photovoltaic system to the utility grid requires an interconnection agreement as well as a sale and purchase agreement, or a net metering agreement with your local utility company. Your PV installer and utility company will be able to go through this with you in more detail.

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION:Once your system is installed, your PV installer will run a series of tests to make sure your system is up and running properly. Make sure you receive a copy of this evaluation, and keep it as part of your system documentation. Other vital documents to keep with this are your owner’s manual, copies of any plan drawings, and instructions for any future maintenance.

UTILITY AND INSPECTION SIGN-OFFS:After your system is installed, it must be inspected by the local permitting agency (typically this is a building and/ or electrical inspector). Most likely, your system will be inspected by the utility company as well. These inspections may identify problem areas that need to be corrected, so don’t be alarmed- this is fairly common and your PV installer can deal with most issues easily.

SYSTEM MAINTENANCE AND MONITORING:PV systems require very little maintenance, but you should discuss this with your installer and review any recommended maintenance procedures. One of the easiest ways to check your system’s performance is to monitor your own electricity meter. This will give you an idea of how much electricity you are using and if your PV system is performing properly.

For More Information on Photovoltaic Systems See Our Resources and Links Page, also the following books offer great information and resources.

Electricity - Make It, Don't Buy It. Are You Tired Of Outrageous Electric Utility Bills? This Book Shows You How To Set Up Your Own Power Station In Your Back Yard.Click Here!

Alternative Energy Resources. Offers An E-book Titled Understanding And Installing Your Own Solar Electric System. Includes Worksheets,& Resources.Click Here!