Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Permits

Residential Rooftop Solar Permit

A qualified contractor (CA licensed class B, C10 or C46) can obtain an online, streamlined PV permit for a simple residential rooftop system on a single-family lot when the project meets the following criteria:

  • The system is no larger than 38.4 kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating.
  • The system conforms to all applicable state fire, structural, electrical and other building codes as adopted by or amended by the city, county, or city and county and paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of section 714 of the Civil Code:
    1. A solar energy system for producing electricity shall also meet all applicable safety and performance standards established by the California Electrical Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories and, where applicable, rules of the Public Utilities Commission regarding safety and reliability.
  • Installed on a single-family dwelling or duplex.
  • The solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the Signal Hill Municipal Code.

LA County Fire Department requirements

  • All residential solar systems must pass inspection by LA Co FD prior to City inspection and final. Submit the Checklist and Declaration to LA Co FD with inspection request:
    1. Checklist
    2. Declaration
  • Please see the LA Co FD Requirement Guide for full information:
    1. Requirement Guide

PV Permit Application

Complete the Solar Eligibility Checklist in order to determine eligibility for expedited review. 

Fees

The plan review fee is $200 for 15kW or less, and $15 for each additional kW above 15kW.

The permit fees for Residential Solar systems include: 

$250        Permit

$90          Processing

$6            Field Energy

$2            SMIP

$2            BSC

Business License

Contractors are required to have a business license in the City of Signal Hill. Call 310-362-8095 to obtain a business license. Contractors must provide a business license number to obtain a streamlined residential solar permit.

Inspections

Only one inspection should be required for a small residential rooftop solar energy system. Inspections are scheduled within 24-hours of a request.

Inspection Request Line: (562) 522-6390

If the project fails inspection, subsequent inspections will be performed as needed until the project meets solar building code requirements. Re-inspection fees may apply.

Click here to apply for a residential solar PV system permit.