PERMITS

What solar permitting includes

1. Building & electrical permits (AHJ approval)

Submitted to the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)—usually a city or county.

• Engineered plan sets (site plan, layout, electrical diagrams)

• Structural calculations or PE stamps (if required)

• Fire access and setback compliance

• Application forms and fees
  
  

Purpose: Confirms the system meets building, electrical, and fire codes.

2. Utility interconnection approval

Approval from the electric utility to connect the system to the grid.

• Interconnection application and system specs

• Review of inverter type and system size

• Net metering or export rules (if applicable)

• Approval to install (ATI) or permission to operate (PTO)
  
  

Purpose: Ensures the grid can safely accept the solar power.

3. Inspections

After installation, inspectors verify the system was built as approved.

• Rough or final inspection by the AHJ

• Utility inspection or meter change (if required)

• Corrections if issues are found
  
  

4. Permission to Operate (PTO)

Final authorization from the utility.

• System is officially allowed to turn on

• Energy can be exported to the grid

• Net metering (or other billing program) begins
  
  

Why solar permitting matters

• Required by law—no permit means no legal operation

• Ensures safety for homeowners, installers, firefighters, and utilities

• Prevents fines, shutdowns, or denied utility connection

• Protects system warranties and insurance coverage
  
  

Typical timeline

• Residential: 1–4 weeks (can be longer depending on AHJ)
  
  

In simple terms

Solar permitting is the official green light process:

• Local government approves the build

• The utility approves the connection

• Inspectors confirm it was done correctly