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San Benito County · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in San Benito County

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

Ask about solar panels and EV chargers in San Benito County See coverage

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

What San Benito County's code says

San Benito County code What San Benito County's code adds
EV charger permit
  • The Building Official approves the application and issues all needed permits when it meets the county's adopted checklist.
    Applies: Applies to EV charging stations; the application must also meet all laws and health and safety standards.
    § 21.01.194 · code text
    A permit application that satisfies the information requirements in the county's adopted checklist shall be deemed complete and be promptly processed.
  • Apply in person, by mail or electronically; electronic signatures are accepted.
    Applies: Applies to applications in the expedited EV charging station permit process.
    § 21.01.194 · code text
    the Building Official shall allow for in-person, mailed, or electronic submittal of permit applications covered by this section and associated supporting documents.
Solar permit process
  • Approved administratively, with all permits issued, once the complete application meets the checklist; apply in person, by mail or electronically.
    Applies: Applies to small residential rooftop solar systems that meet the checklist.
    § 21.01.176 · code text
    Upon confirmation by the Building Official of the application and supporting documentation being complete and meeting the requirements of the checklist, the Building Official shall administratively approve the application and issue all required permits and/or authorizations
  • Only 1 inspection; if the system fails, a reinspection is allowed and may carry a reasonable fee.
    Applies: Applies to small residential rooftop solar systems eligible for expedited review.
    § 21.01.176 · code text
    For a small residential rooftop solar energy system eligible for expedited review, only one inspection shall be required, which shall be done in a timely manner.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for solar panels or an EV charger in San Benito County?

San Benito County's code: Approved administratively, with all permits issued, once the complete application meets the checklist; apply in person, by mail or electronically. (Applies to small residential rooftop solar systems that meet the checklist.) (§ 21.01.176); The Building Official approves the application and issues all needed permits when it meets the county's adopted checklist. (Applies to EV charging stations; the application must also meet all laws and health and safety standards.) (§ 21.01.194).

General information, not legal advice.

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San Benito County Municipal Code — full text