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Apply for Solar Energy Systems & Facilities
Apply for Solar Energy Systems & Facilities
Solar energy systems are any solar collector, solar energy device, or structural design whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for space heating, electric generation, or water heating. Before installing a solar system or facility, you must submit a completed permit application along with all required documentation as outlined.
Go Solar Faster with SolarAPP+!
Going solar just got a whole lot easier for eligible homeowners in Oakland!
The City of Oakland is pleased to announce the launch of SolarAPP+ — a new online portal allowing most residential solar projects to obtain same-day permits, cutting approval time by an average of 5 days.
See Permit Requirements and Application Steps below!
Before you Start
Please review the Permit Requirements and Application Steps below as these vary from project to project.
At this time, Solar APP+ is designed to provide an automated code-compliance check for most residential, roof-mounted, retrofit photovoltaic systems.
To see if your system is eligible, please refer to the SolarAPP+ Eligibility Checklist. Only projects that conform to this list are eligible to use the automated SolarAPP+ portal for instant permitting. See below for SolarAPP+ FAQs.
Current system and applicant requirements:
Main dwelling rooftop, permitted, residential structures only
No ballasted systems
Battery backup allowed
Electrical work related to the solar installation is allowed
No building-integrated photovoltaic systems (BIPV)
Click "Login" or "Register" to get started* * Contractors will need a registered account (watch registration video)
Enter site address, project information and basic details
Follow the prompts to make payment online, print your permit
STEP 2: Apply for Building Permits (As Applicable)
Ground-mounted, cantilevered, and/or elevated systems and/or large storage tanks also require a separate Building Permit. Submit a Building Worksheet through our Online Permit Center. In the Worksheet, upload all associated documents
Main electrical service panel replacement, subpanels, and energy storage systems installed as part of the solar installation may now be included as part of the solar permit application. Other electrical work NOT dedicated to a PV system will require a separate Electrical Permit. Click on the relevant link: Commercial/Non-residential | Residential
Energy storage systems also require approval from the Fire Prevention Bureau where: 1.) a single battery has a capacity greater than 20 kWh; 2.) the aggregate of the energy storage system is greater than 40 kWh and is located within utility closets, sheds, or basements; or 3.) 80 kWh of storage capacity is installed outside. For more information, please review City of Oakland Energy Storage Systems Code Bulletin. For assistance with Fire-related permits, please contact FPBReceptionist@oaklandca.gov.
