SolarAPP+

Licensed Contractors Can Now Submit Through SolarAPP+:

  • Residential roof-mounted photovoltaic designs for automated review through SolarAPP+; and
  • An online application for an auto-issued permit. 


Automated Solar Plan Review

Before applying for an automated solar plan review and solar permit, projects must follow certain requirements.

  • Solar APP+ is designed to provide a code-compliance check for the majority of residential, roof-mounted, retrofit photovoltaic systems.
  • To see which systems are eligible, please refer to the SolarAPP+ Eligibility Checklist. Only projects that conform to this list are eligible to use the automated SolarAPP+ portal for instant permitting. 

 

Using SolarAPP+

SolarApp+ Application Guide

  • Main dwelling rooftop, permitted, residential structures only.
  • No ballasted or ground mounted systems.
  • Please review the SolarAPP+ Eligibility Checklist for acceptable projects
  • Licensed Contractors Only


Step 2: Submit for Automated Review Through SolarApp+

  • Submit Solar/Photovoltaic design at gosolarapp.
  • Click Login or Register to get started.
  • Have Contractors license information available to complete this step.
  • A processing fee will be charged by SolarApp+ NREL.

 

Step 3:  Apply for Permit

  • Create an account and log in to the El Monte Building Division CSS Portal 
  • Click "Apply" and choose "SolarAPP+Residential Solar Permit"
  • Add the address, using the search option on the map.
  • Enter in the permit details (description and valuation)
  • Proved three required contacts (applicant, contractor, and property owner).
  • Provide general solar details (including required SolarAPP+ Approval Number).
  • Attach the required documents.
  • Review your information before submitting.
  • After clicking "submit", wait for about 30 seconds as the system creates a new permit record.
  • For permit issuance, click "Add to Cart" and "Check Out" to pay the project invoice via MyGovPay.
  • You will receive confirmation email receipt along with the attached permit.
  • Schedule an inspection once the work has been completed.

       * If you require a main panel upgrade to accommodate this solar installation, you will need to pull a separate                    Electrical Permit with the City of El Monte.

       * You may submit for a MPU permit in-person Monday -  Thursday 8:00am - 4:00pm must be checked in by 3:00pm           with the filled-out electrical permit application and have SCE spot meter location. 

       * Important note: Inaccurate or incorrect attachments will result in delays or the revocation of issued permits. 


Step 4:  Schedule Your Inspection

  • Call the City of El Monte Building Division at (626)580-2050 to schedule an inspection Monday - Thursday 7:00am - 5:30pm.
  • Have your permit number and address ready to give to the technician. 
  • You will be given a four hour am or pm slot on the first day available.
  • Onsite contact to have permit and Solar App+ checklist onsite for inspection.


SolarAPP+ Revisions

  • Submit your revision through SolarAPP+ first (solarapp.nrel.gov).
  • You will be provided with a revised SolarAPP+ Approval Document.
  • The initial processing fee charged by the SolarAPP+ website covers up to three revisions.
  • Log in to the account associate with your SolarAPP+ permit.
  • Find the SolarAPP+ Permit Application you’d like to revise.
  • Upload the revised SolarApp+ "Inspection Checklist" along with the filled-out revision application to the City of El Monte CSS portal.
  • Attachments will then be reviewed and accepted by our staff.
  • If the scope of the revision makes the project ineligible for use of SolarAPP+, please submit the revision to the Building & Safety Division during the hours listed below.

Monday-Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm check in by 3:00 pm.