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Solar panels and EV chargers in Gilroy

Gilroy'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 Gilroy Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Gilroy's code says

Gilroy code What Gilroy's code adds
EV charger permit
  • The building official approves an application meeting the city's checklist and issues all permits; electronic submittal and signatures accepted.
    Applies: Electric vehicle charging stations in city limits; the application must meet all applicable laws.
    § 6.58 · code text
    Upon confirmation by the building official that the permit application and supporting documents meet the requirements of the city’s adopted checklist, and are consistent with all applicable laws, the building official shall, consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, approve the application and issue all necessary permits.
Solar height and setbacks
  • The panel array may not exceed the maximum legal building height in the zoning code.
    Applies: Small residential rooftop solar systems, to qualify for expedited permitting.
    § 6.57 · code text
    A solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the city zoning ordinance, Chapter 30.
Solar permit process
  • Expedited administrative, nondiscretionary review; submit by email, internet or fax; electronic signatures accepted.
    Applies: Small residential rooftop solar systems.
    § 6.57 · 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.
Review time
  • Within 3 business days, and the same day whenever possible.
    Applies: Small residential rooftop solar systems with a complete application that meets the checklist and standard plan.
    § 6.57 · code text
    The building and safety division shall issue a building permit or other nondiscretionary permit within three (3) business days of receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

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

Gilroy's code: Expedited administrative, nondiscretionary review; submit by email, internet or fax; electronic signatures accepted. (Small residential rooftop solar systems.) (§ 6.57); The building official approves an application meeting the city's checklist and issues all permits; electronic submittal and signatures accepted. (Electric vehicle charging stations in city limits; the application must meet all applicable laws.) (§ 6.58).

General information, not legal advice.

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Ask GoCodebook how Gilroy's solar panels and EV chargers rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

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Gilroy Municipal Code — full text