City Launches Online Portal for Solar Energy Systems Permitting

The City has launched its Pasadena Solar-App Express online portal, which allows homeowners and contractors to obtain express permits for installing solar photovoltaic systems and solar energy and energy storage systems.

In an announcement the City said the launch marks a significant step towards a more sustainable energy future for Pasadena, enabling easier access to permits for solar installations and supporting the growth of renewable energy in the community.

Developed by the Departments of Planning & Community Development, Water & Power, Fire, and Information Technology, the portal meets the City Council Goal of “Increasing Conservation and Sustainability” and fulfills the requirements of California Senate Bill 379 and California Government Code Section 65850.52, says a statement by the city.

Homeowners and contractors can now more easily obtain permits for Solar Photovoltaic Systems up to 38.4 kilowatts, or Solar Energy and Energy Storage Systems combined up to 38.4 kilowatts. These systems can be installed on single-family dwellings and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), the statement said.

A Solar Photovoltaic System, also called a Solar PV System, is an electric power system that utilizes solar panels to convert light into electricity. These systems consist of multiple components, including the solar panels themselves. The maximum power output for these systems is 38.4 kilowatts, making them suitable for residential and small commercial buildings.

In addition to the solar panels, the complete system includes other components such as inverters, racking, wiring, combiners, and electric meters. Inverters are responsible for converting DC (direct current) electricity produced by the solar panels into AC (alternating current), which can be used to power appliances in homes and businesses.

The city’s statement said Solar Energy and Energy Storage Systems include energy storage systems, typically in the form of batteries. These storage systems store excess electricity generated by the solar panels for use when the panels are not producing electricity, such as at night or on cloudy days.

The Solar-App Express online portal was developed with grant funding from the Departments of Planning & Community Development, Water and Power, Fire, and Information Technology. Funding was provided through programs like the California Automated Permit Processing Program, which supports cities and counties in implementing online platforms for real-time permit issuance and code compliance verification.

To access the Pasadena Solar-App Express online portal, visit https://mypermits.cityofpasadena.net/Permit/Express. 

For assistance, email permitcentermanager@cityofpasadena.net or call (626) 744-4200.