Do I need a permit for solar panels in Los Angeles, CA?

Short answer: Yes, a permit is required for solar panels in Los Angeles, CA.

Last verified: 2026-10-19 · Confidence: high · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.

Permit required Confidence: high

Yes. Small rooftop systems (10 kW or less on a one- or two-family home) qualify for streamlined or express online permits, which contractors apply for online.

What changes the answer

10 kW or less: streamlined/express

Cost

Fee not extracted; see the LADBS fee schedule. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://dbs.lacity.gov/services/homeowner-step-by-step

Where to apply

LA Department of Building and Safety (LADBS): Express Permits online or by appointment

Permitting authority: City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). Applies inside the City of Los Angeles only (not other cities or unincorporated LA County). Zoning sets fence heights separately from the building code. Fire hazard zones and hillside areas add rules. See also: how to apply for a building permit.