In 2021, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) launched a collaborative effort with key code officials, authorities having jurisdiction, and the solar industry to develop standardized plan review software that can run compliance checks for eligible rooftop solar systems.

SolarAPP+, short for Solar Automated Permit Processing, is an online web portal that automates the plan review and process for issuing permits to qualified businesses or individuals to install code-compliant residential photovoltaic (PV) systems. Based on model building, electrical, and fire codes, SolarAPP+ automatically performs a compliance check based on inputs supplied by the contractor to ensure the proposed system is safe and code compliant. Installation practices, workmanship and adherence to the approved design are then verified by the City of Chula Vista through the inspection process.

• SolarAPP+ allows developers to check code compliance of designs before submitting them for check/review.
• Compliance checks are standardized so that any city or county using SolarAPP+ has the same requirements and question set.
• SolarAPP+ can process eligible “cookie-cutter” residential solar installations permits instantly.
• SolarAPP+ was developed with safety at its core, which helps the industry and local governments adapt effectively to new codes and new technologies.

For Expedited Residential Solar Permits:

Step 1: Go to SolarAPP+ website

Step 2: Register to create an account or sign in on the SolarAPP+ website.

Step 3: Follow SolarAPP+ instructions to answer questions and upload plans.

Step 4: Receive a unique Solar APP+ ID number and forms/plans packet from SolarAPP+.

Step 5: Submit a complete application via our online application platform, Citizen Access: 

1. Create an Account or Log in with your existing username/password.
2. Navigate to the “Building Tab”.
3. Click on “Create an Application”.
4. Agree to Terms and Conditions.
5. Click on the word “Building” below the search bar.
6. Choose the “Solar Permit with Solar App Plus” option.
7. Click “Continue Application” and complete the remaining questions as thoroughly as possible. (Make sure to use the exact SolarAPP+ unique ID provided and upload the SolarAPP+ forms received by SolarAPP+).
8. Once you submit you will receive an approved permit number for your project.

Plan Change*

*After you complete the above, if you have a plan change after submitting from the above instructions - please submit the plan change just to the SolarAPP+ website. Once you receive the new approval number from SolarAPP+ you are only required to have the newer approved plans available for the Development Services inspector, on site, at the time of inspection.

Requirements for Standard Solar Photovoltaic Permitting

Submittal Requirements:

If you are a property owner:

• Building Permit Application
• 2 sets of plans - see Solar PV Systems guide   
• For additional submittal requirements refer to our Project Submittal Process

If you are a contractor:

Submit a complete application via our online application platform, Citizen Access: 

1. Create an Account or Log in with your existing username/password.
2. Navigate to the “Building Tab”.
3. Click on “Create an Application”.
4. Agree to Terms and Conditions.
5. Click on the word “Building” below the search bar.
6. Choose the “Residential Solar Energy – Citizen Access” option.
7. Click “Continue Application” and complete the remaining questions as thoroughly as possible.

In-person submittals may be made at the Development Services Permit Counter, located at 276 Fourth Avenue (Building B), Chula Vista, CA  91910

Fee information can be found on the latest Miscellaneous Item Permit Fees under the Photovoltaic System section

• SolarAPP+ Fees are listed as "Residential (SFD/Duplex), expedited^"
• Standard Residential Fees are listed as "Residential (SFD/Duplex), traditional^"

Once all permits to construct the solar installation have been issued and the system has been installed, the system must be inspected before final approval is granted for the solar system. Permit holders must be prepared to show conformance with all technical requirements in the field at the time of inspection. The inspector will verify that the installation is in substantial conformance with applicable code requirements and with the approved plans.  The approved plans shall be made available on site to the inspector at time of inspection.  In addition, completed Circuit Card and, if applicable, SDG&E Work Order, shall be made available on site at time of inspection.

• Schedule an inspection
• Inspection Card
• Inspection Guide
• Comprehensive Inspection Reference
• Inspection Checklists
• Example SolarAPP+ Inspection Checklist

State law protects historic or potentially historic structures from additions or alterations that may affect the historic character of the structure. Structures designated as historic or eligible to be designated historic with proposed roof-top solar energy systems need to adhere to The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation; “Incorporating Solar Panels in a Rehabilitation Project”.  Therefore, prior to applying for a roof-top solar energy permit, find out if the structure is a designated or eligible historic resource by clicking here and entering either the assessor's parcel number (APN) or address.

• If the structure is "designated" or "eligible for designation," follow the instructions to obtain Historic Eligibility Clearance before applying for your proposed solar permit. 
• If the structure is not a designated or eligible historic resource, return to this webpage and follow the guide below.