HomeMy WebLinkAboutPV Solar Checklist 30K Fast Trak Eligibility 2282023Updated February 2023
This information bulletin is published to guide applicants through a streamlined permitting process
for roof-top solar photovoltaic (PV) projects 30kW in size or smaller. This bulletin provides
information about submittal requirements for plan review, required fees, inspections, and an
eligibility checklist.
1. Submittal Requirements
− Provide a standardized or simplified photovoltaic plan that demonstrates:
Title or Cover Sheet noting the 2022 California Electrical Code.
Site and Roof Plan showing roof layout, PV panels and the following fire safety items:
Approximate location of roof access point, location of code-compliant access
pathways, and the locations of all required labels and markings.
A simplified Electrical Plan:
1. Locations of main service or utility disconnect
2. Total number of modules, number of modules per string and the total number of
strings
3. Make and model of inverter(s) and/or combiner box if used
4. Single-line diagram of system
5. Specify grounding/bonding, conductor type and size, conduit type and size and
number of conductors in each section of conduit
− Provide a simplified structural design:
Provide structural drawings and calculations stamped and signed by a California-licensed
architect, civil or structural engineer, electrical engineer or licensed contractor along with
the following information.
1. The type of roof covering, and the number of roof coverings installed.
2. Type of roof framing, size of members and spacing
3. Weight of panels, support locations and method of attachment
4. Framing plan and details for any work necessary to strengthen the existing roof
structure
5. Site-specific structural calculations
6. Where an approved racking system is used, provide documentation showing
manufacturer of the rack system, maximum allowable weight the system can
support, attachment method to the roof or ground and product evaluation
information or structural design for the rack system.
PALM DESERT PERMIT CENTER
Expedited Solar Photovoltaic Permitting for One-and Two-Family Dwellings
Updated February 2023
These criteria are intended for expedited solar permitting process. If any items are UNCHECKED, revise
design to fit within Eligibility Checklist, otherwise permit application must go through standard process
which is (10 Business Day initial review/7 Business Day Follow-up Review)
1. General Requirements
☐ The photovoltaic system size is 30kW AC CEC rating or less.
☐ The solar array is roof-mounted on a one- or two-family dwelling unit or permitted accessory structure.
☐ The photovoltaic system is utility interactive.
☐ Permit application and declaration is completed and attached.
2. Planning Department Requirements
☐ Existing MPU Amps Doubling, e.g., 100 to 200 OR 125 to 225. PLANNING WILL NEED TO REVIEW. ☐ Maximum height of “tilted” panels shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches.
☐ All wires shall be strapped to the modules/racking system. No loose or hanging wires are permitted.
☐ The racking system shall match the module frame and shall be a color compatible with the architectural
character of the home or building.
☐ Modules shall be flush with one another and gaps between panels shall be minimized.
☐ Screening of panels is not required. Any screening material proposed shall be compatible with the
architectural character of the home of building.
3. Electrical Requirements
☐ No more than four photovoltaic module strings are connected to each Maximum Power Point Tracking
(MPPT) input where source circuit fusing is included in the inverter:
1) No more than two strings per MPPT input where source circuit fusing is not included
2) Fuses (if needed) are rated to the series fuse rating of the PV module
3) No more than one non-inverter-integrated DC combiner is utilized per inverter
☐ For central inverter systems: No more than two inverters are utilized.
☐ The PV system is connected to the load side of the utility distribution equipment.
☐ A Solar PV Standard Plan and supporting documentation is completed and attached.
4. Structural Requirements
☐ A completed Structural Criteria and supporting documentation is attached Wind and Seismic (if required).
5. Fire Safety Requirements
☐ Clear access pathways provided.
☐ Fire classification photovoltaic system is provided.
☐ All required marking and labels are provided.
☐ A diagram of the roof layout of electrical panels, modules, clear access pathways and approximate locations
of electrical disconnecting means and roof access points are completed and attached.
I understand and affirm that the above information regarding the solar photovoltaic is true and accurate. If during the inspection
process any deviation in this scope will result in stop work and full plan review. In the event a project requires supplemental plan
reviews, a plan review fee of $168.00 per hour (with one-half hour minimum) will be collected from the applicant.
Applicant Signature: _____________________________________Date: _______________
Project Address: ________________________________________________________
Eligibility Checklist
Expedited Solar Photovoltaic Permitting for
One- and Two-family Dwellings