Your installer will handle the entire permit application process unless you install the system yourself. But it’s not a bad idea to understand what’s involved in getting the permit approved and issued. Most likely, your Enphase installer has already worked on many solar and battery projects in your area and is well-versed in local building codes.

To obtain a permit, your installer submits the necessary application forms, which are filed electronically in many areas. The application will include a copy of the site plan, a copy of the system design to which you and your installer agreed, and technical documents for system components. Engineering documents covering the roof load analysis for the system are often part of the application, and photos of your current electrical main panel displaying the busbar rating may need to be provided.

The cost of obtaining a permit is usually determined by your local government, but your installer should build that expense into your system estimate. The permit cost helps cover the expense of your local inspector, who will need to make one or two trips to your home to approve the installation.

The time it takes to get an approved permit will vary from city to city, based on workload and the complexity of your system. But expect this part to take a few weeks. For more details, refer to your local jurisdiction’s website. It should have information on its permitting process and how it works. 

Most city-issued permits require your system to be installed within a certain period. The time will vary from city to city, but it will usually be six months to a year.

If your system installation exceeds the valid permit period due to factors like system complexity or specific requirements such as seismic standards, your permit will need to be renewed. Your installer will complete the renewal process, and most likely, there will be an additional fee to renew the permit.