SolarAPP+

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The Building Division has updated its Residential Solar Permit Process

The State passed Senate Bill 379 to implement an online permitting process and streamline the plan review and issuance procedure for photovoltaic permits. Licensed contractors can now use SolarAPP+ for rooftop solar permitting in the City of Whittier (Residential permits only). Projects qualifying for expedited permitting through SolarAPP+ will not require a city plan review thereby reducing the time to obtain a permit. If you are a licensed contractor installer, you may register for a new SolarAPP+ account (non-licensed/owner-builders must apply for a regular solar permit with plan check).

What is SolarAPP+

SolarAPP+, short for Solar Automated Permit Processing, is an online web portal that automates the plan review and process for issuing permits to qualified licensed professionals to install code-compliant residential photovoltaic (PV) systems.

What permits are eligible for SolarApp+?

Before applying for an automated solar plan review and solar residential permit, projects must follow certain requirements. To see which systems which systems are eligible, please refer to the Eligibility Checklist. Only projects that conform to this list are eligible to use the automated SolarAPP+ portal for instant permitting. All other solar/PV installations require a regular solar permit.

Permit types not eligible for SolarAPP+ (at this time)

Panel upgrades
Systems over 38.4 kW

Installation Requirements

Fire department setback requirements: modules are required to be 3-feet from exterior bearing walls, on gabled ends, 18-inches from ridge, and 18-inches on either side of a valley.
AC disconnect must be a knife switch style located within 6-feet of MSP (main service panel) and within sight. (See LACFD checklist section IV)

What will I need?

A SolarAPP+ account, as well as a City of Whittier online portal account
An active City of Whittier business license
_{(You must have an active business license before submitting for a SolarAPP+ permit. Please obtain a business license here). Inspections cannot be scheduled without an active business license.}
Approved documents for your solar project obtained from SolarAPP+
Download and complete, LACFD Expedited PV/ESS Permitting Process - Inspection Checklist

How to get started

Submit for automated review through SolarAPP+
- To start using SolarAPP+, register and submit your design through the SolarAPP+ webpage
- A processing fee will be charged by SolarAPP+
Apply for a City of Whittier solar permit
- Apply for a City of Whittier residential solar permit through the online portal
- Upload your approved checklist and SolarAPP+ specifications sheet
- Once you have paid all applicable fees, your permit and City of Whittier job card will be immediately issued, electronically.
Schedule inspection
- The first inspection will be conducted by LACFD. Click here to find the nearest inspection office. Once this inspection has been completed and approved advance to next step.
- Request a Building Inspection Request with the Building Division using the online inspection portal
- Please make sure to have all approved paperwork, as well as the permit and City of Whittier job card printed and present on site for your inspector

For more information about SolarAPP+, please use the following helpful links below:

For any questions, please contact the Building and Safety Division at (562) 567-9320 or by email at solarapp+@cityofwhittier.org

Address
Building and Safety Division
13230 Penn Street
Whittier, CA 90602

Email
solarapp+@cityofwhittier.org

Phone Number
(562) 567-9320