Solar permitting can be a complex process, but I recently came across a great checklist from IREC and Vote Solar that breaks steps down for application and inspection checklists and can make the process much clearer. Other advantages of using a checklist include:
-Provide a simple list of required information for the permit application/the inspection that follows
-Serve as guides for solar installers, permit review staff and inspectors
-Can save staff time for the jurisdiction
-Reduce inquiries received from installers
-Cave time and money for the solar installer by making requirements clear and transparent
-Help to ensure that application and inspection requirements are applied consistently across the board to all installers
Tips for Application Checklists
-List required forms, such as building permit application form, and where they can be located
-List and describe required diagrams or plans, including the number of copies needed
-List any other required documentation, signatures or approvals
-Describe the fee structure and options for payment
-Provide online or in-person application submittal instructions
-Provide information about office locations, hours and appropriate staff contacts
-Include citations to relevant code or other sources as much as possible for the applicant
Tips for Inspection Checklists
-List the information required in advance of the inspection
-List what the inspector will look at on-site and what requirements are expected to be met
-Consider dividing checklist into appropriate sections, such as utility service/AC power source, inverter, arrays/modules, and grounding/bonding
-Explain who needs to be there and what applicant can expect during the inspection
-Provide information about office locations, hours and appropriate staff contacts
-Include citations to relevant code or other sources as much as possible for the applicant to reference
Also, check out jurisdictions that have published checklists for solar permitting on www.irecusa.org
Interstate Renewable Energy Co says
Thanks for sharing the news, Kathleen!