SolarAPP+ Submittals

Pod

SolarAPP+ Automated Solar Plan Reviews  

SolarApp+ simplifies the application process for solar energy systems. With this user-friendly tool, you can submit your solar permit applications online, reducing wait times and streamlining the approval process.

Before applying for an automated solar plan review and solar permit, projects must follow certain requirements. At this time, SolarAPP+ 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 Eligibility Checklist. Only projects that conform to this list are eligible to use the automated SolarAPP+ portal for instant permitting. 

1. Submit for Automated Review through SolarApp+
  • To start using SolarAPP+, register and submit your design through the SolarAPP+ webpage.
  • A processing fee will be charged by SolarAPP+. Download the approved plans.

  • Introductory video from SolarAPP+: Introductory Video

2. Apply for a permit with the City of Grass Valley Building Department
  • Apply for your permit through Accela Citizen Access.
  • Select SolarAPP+ under “Express Permit” applications
  • Provide your SolarApp+ approval ID number and upload the SolarAPP+ Approval Document and the SolarAPP+ Specifications. 
3. Getting an Inspection

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SolarAPP+?

SolarAPP+, short for Solar Automated Permit Processing, is an online web portal that automates the plan review and process for issuing permits to qualified businesses or individuals to install code-compliant residential photovoltaic (PV) systems. Based on model building, electrical, and fire codes, SolarAPP automatically performs a compliance check based on inputs supplied by the contractor to ensure the proposed system is safe and code compliant. 

Visit https://gosolarapp.org/ for more information.

How much does SolarAPP+ cost an installer to use?

Applicants pay a $25 administration fee to use SolarAPP+. In turn, they will receive an approval for compliant applications, saving installers a significant amount of time and effort on every permit processed.

Separate City fees for a solar permit are charged through the building permit application process .

How do I make changes to approved SolarAPP+ plans and the building permit?

Revisions can only be made on systems that have not yet been installed.

First, visit the SolarAPP+ website: How do I make changes to approved plans?

Once the revision has been approved by SolarAPP+, email COGVBuildingInspectionVM@cityofgrassvalley.com with the approved revisions.

Do I still need to apply for a City permit after I’ve obtained approval through SolarApp+?

Yes! After SolarApp+ issues a pre-approval, the applicant must obtain a City permit through our User Portal, Accela Citizen Access.

Commands