solar energy

This guide provides recommendations and resources for local communities on improving their solar energy system permit application forms and instructions, information availability, review and inspection requirements, and permit fees.

It describes relevant state rules and regulations; provides permitting recommendations for rooftop solar PV; offers a standardized solar PV permit application package for communities in the state with instructions on how to use an associated structural review and evaluation worksheet; offers recommendations for and examples of online permitting systems; provides resource for training staff in rooftop solar PV specifics; offers recommendations for optimizing the process; discusses suggested permit fee structures for renewable energy; offers planning and zoning recommendations for solar friendliness, including model solar permitting and zoning ordinances and a solar site design worksheet; and provides a solar-friendliness checklist for local jurisdictions.