San Diego Residential Solar Permit Guide
San Diego publishes a residential rooftop solar PV permit path and information bulletin for solar installations.
Solar Permit
San Diego, California
April 26, 2026
Permit takeaway
San Diego says a residential rooftop-mounted solar PV permit is required for rooftop PV systems and solar photovoltaic shingles.
Zoning and placement
Some qualifying roof-mounted projects can be submitted electronically without plan review, but structural changes or other work can change the permit type.
Building and trade review
San Diego requires an electrical permit for PV and PV shingle systems, with building or combination permits when structural modifications or accessory structures are involved.
Call before applying when
Call before applying if the system exceeds standard criteria, changes roof structure, adds a carport/canopy, or needs fire or structural review.
Documents to prepare
- PV permit application
- System layout
- Electrical details
- IB-301 template documents if eligible
Inspection planning
- Electrical inspection
- Structural/building inspection if applicable
- Final inspection
Official sources
This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.