Solar Energy Systems & Facilities

Step 1.Step One: Apply for SolarAPP+ Approval

• Visit solarapp.nrel.gov
• Click "Login" or "Register" to get started*
  * Contractor's license information required to complete this step
• Enter the project information
• A subscription or project processing fee may be charged by SolarAPP+
• Once your project has been approved, you will receive a SolarAPP+ approval number and documents

Step 2.Step Two: Apply for Oakland Permit

• Apply for your permit through our Online Permit Center
• Click "Login" or "Register" to get started*
  * Contractors will need a registered account (watch registration video)
• Input the SolarAPP+ approval number and attach the SolarAPP+ Approval Document to proceed
• Attach the SolarAPP+ Spec Sheet
• Attach your Contractors Declaration Form
• Follow the prompts to make payment online, after which your permit is issued
• Print your permit

Step 3.Step Three: Schedule Your Inspection

• Visit our Schedule Your Building Inspection page
• Download the scheduling app to your mobile device
• Enter the site address and SE permit number (ex. SE23######)
• Follow the prompts to complete the inspection scheduling
• Before your inspection, be sure you have your printed permit and supporting documents ready

SolarAPP+ FAQs and Tutorials:

Details about the SolarApp are available in a YouTube instructional video.

• What is SolarAPP+?
• How do I make changes to approved SolarAPP+ plans?
• How do I submit a project through SolarAPP+?
• Contractors Guide: Issues & upcoming improvements
• What projects are eligible to be submitted in SolarAPP+?
• How do I make changes to approved plans?
• Contractors Guide: Release notes
• What types of systems are not eligible for SolarAPP+ review?
• Is there a limit on system size SolarAPP+ can review?
• How do I register with SolarAPP+?

Step 1.Step One: Apply for Solar Permit

• Apply for your permit via our Online Permit Center
• Click "Login" or "Register" to get started*
  * Contractors will need a registered account (watch registration video)
• Enter site address, project information and basic details
• Follow the prompts to make payment online, after which your permit will be issued
• Print your permit

Step 2.Step Two: Apply for Building Permits (As Applicable)

• Ground-mounted, cantilevered, and/or elevated systems and/or large storage tanks also require a separate Building Permit. Submit a Building Worksheet through our Online Permit Center. In the Worksheet, upload all associated documents
• Main electrical service panel replacement, subpanels, and energy storage systems installed as part of the solar installation may now be included as part of the solar permit application. Other electrical work NOT dedicated to a PV system will require a separate Electrical Permit. Click on the relevant link: Commercial/Non-residential | Residential
• Energy storage systems will require approval from the Fire Prevention Bureau where: 1.) a single battery has a capacity greater than 20 kWh; 2.) the aggregate of the energy storage system is greater than 40 kWh and is located within utility closets, sheds, or basements; or 3.) 80 kWh of storage capacity is installed outside. For more information, please review City of Oakland Energy Storage Systems Code Bulletin(PDF, 332KB). For assistance with Fire-related permits, please contact FPBReceptionist@oaklandca.gov.

Step 3.Step Three: Recycling Plan (As Applicable)

• If you have applied for a Building Permit in Step Two, your project will also require an approved Recycling Plan (called a WRRP) before permits are issued. As soon as your Permit Application has been processed, a Green Halo project will be created for you and an invitation for the project will be sent to the email address you provided on your Permit Application.
• Follow the directions in Green Halo to pay this fee and write a Recycling Plan for all debris your building project will generate.

Learn More About Recycling

Step 4.Step Four: Final Check & Permits (As Applicable)

• If you have applied for a Building Permit in Step Two, the following will also apply
• After Plan Check has been completed, your application will go to Final Check before the permit is issued.
• Staff will with work with you to ensure everything is complete and inform you of any outstanding steps, fees, or documents.
• Permits are issued

Step 5.Step Five: Schedule Your Inspection (All Projects)

• Visit our Schedule Your Building Inspection page
• Download the scheduling app to your mobile device
• Enter the site address and SE permit number (ex. SE23######)
• Follow the prompts to complete the inspection scheduling
• Before your inspection, be sure to have your printed permit and supporting documents ready