Solar Plans, Permitting

A solar plan is required by most building permit departments and/or utilities prior to installation. The authority having jurisdiction will ensure a proper installation is done according to building and electrical Code. The utility will require a plan prior to approving the system for net-metering.

Minimum PV Plans Checklist

Below is a checklist of commom items required for most PV solar permit plans. The plans are typcially printed on 11x17 or 18x24 inch paper. Some jurisdictions may require a state-licensed engineer (PE, EE or SE) to review and stamp the plan strcutural or electrical pages.

• Basic site plan provided showing property lines, easements, locations of structures and equipment.
• Layout of array configuration and placement of equipment and modules with dimensioned access and pathways (roof mount) or vegetative clearance (ground mount)
• Electrical single line drawing including:
  • Size and location of main electrical panel and sub panels
  • Equipment grounding
  • Combiner/junction box location
  • AC / DC disconnect box
  • Conduit size from the array to the power source
  • Inverter string sizing or micro inverter branch circuit details
  • Conductor wiring methods and insulation rating, system and solar panel grounding methods per inverter and solar panel manufacturer’s listings, and PV system DC and AC disconnects
  • Listing information, including mounting, wire type, method of grounding, of PV modules and mounting racks
• Marking and signage (on panel(s), disconnects and transmission line conductors)
• Provide cut sheets for all PV equipment and mounting systems including, but not limited to:
  • PV modules
  • Rack mounting system
  • Mounting brackets
  • Grounding hardware
  • Inverters or micro inverters
  • Panel and rack attachment details
• Equipment type, listing, testing agency approvals
• Plans must show compliance with Building, Electrical and Fire Code
• Permanent labels and signage with a red background and white lettering resistant to fading pursuant to UL 969 and National Electrical Code Article 690 and permanently affixed
• Elevation view showing maximum height of PV installation above ground (ground mount only) or roof place with strcutural cross-section identifying adequate roof support