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Albany · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in Albany

Albany's own rules on solar panels and EV chargers, with the code text for every value.

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Each rule below links to the section of the Albany Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Albany's code says

Albany code What Albany's code adds
Solar permit process
  • Expedited review. You may apply by email, the Internet or fax, and electronic signatures are accepted.
    Applies: Applies to small home rooftop solar energy systems.
    § 12-14.5 · code text
    Electronic submittal of the required permit application and documents by email, the Internet, or facsimile shall be made available to all small residential rooftop solar energy system permit applicants.
  • Only 1 approved inspection is required. A separate fire inspection may be done.
    Applies: Applies to small home rooftop solar energy systems eligible for expedited review.
    § 12-14.6 · code text
    Only one approved inspection shall be required and performed by the Community Development Department for small residential rooftop solar energy systems eligible for expedited review. A separate fire inspection may be performed.
  • The inspection is scheduled within 2 business days of a request, with a 2-hour inspection window.
    Applies: Applies to small home rooftop solar energy systems eligible for expedited review.
    § 12-14.6 · code text
    An inspection will be scheduled within two (2) business days of a request and provide a two (2) hour inspection window.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for solar panels or an EV charger in Albany?

Albany's code: Expedited review. You may apply by email, the Internet or fax, and electronic signatures are accepted. (Applies to small home rooftop solar energy systems.) (§ 12-14.5); Only 1 approved inspection is required. A separate fire inspection may be done. (Applies to small home rooftop solar energy systems eligible for expedited review.) (§ 12-14.6).

General information, not legal advice.

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Albany Municipal Code — full text