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San Diego County · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in San Diego County

Rooftop solar on single- or two-family homes up to 38.4 kW AC or 30 kW thermal gets streamlined permitting with an online platform.

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

Key points

  • Rooftop solar: Rooftop solar on single- or two-family homes up to 38.4 kW AC or 30 kW thermal gets streamlined permitting with an online platform.

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

What San Diego County's code says

San Diego County code What San Diego County's code adds
Solar height and setbacks
  • Must meet the zone's height limit; may extend up to 5 feet above the roof's highest point where allowed.
    Applies: Photovoltaic solar systems for onsite use.
    § 6954 · code text
    ii. Height. A System shall meet the height limit of the height designator of the zone, except when allowed to extend not more than 5 feet above the highest point of the roof, in accordance with Section 4620.i.
  • Must meet the zone's main building setbacks, or a listed alternative setback rule.
    Applies: Photovoltaic solar systems for onsite use.
    § 6954 · code text
    A System shall meet all of the main building setback requirements of the zone or comply with Section 4835.f.
Solar permit process
  • streamlined permitting process; online automated permitting platform available
    Applies: Rooftop solar/storage on single- or two-family dwelling; no larger than 38.4 kW AC or 30 kW thermal; checklist and county code compliance
    § 91.1.105.3.1.1 · code text
    Solar energy and energy storage systems that meet the criteria under this section can use the County's online automated permitting platform to obtain the necessary permits.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

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

Rooftop solar on single- or two-family homes up to 38.4 kW AC or 30 kW thermal gets streamlined permitting with an online platform.

General information, not legal advice.

Ask about a specific San Diego County property

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

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San Diego County Municipal Code — full text