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City of Santa Clara (CA)

California Authority Having Jurisdiction Solar permitting requirements
NEC Code Version2023
Fire Code Version2018 Building Code
SolarAPP+ StatusAdopted
Wet Stamps RequiredNone
Fire Setback Enforced1

Codes

NEC Code Version
2023
Fire Code Version
2018 Building Code
Code List

2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

2025 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE

2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

2025 CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE

ASCE Code Specification
ASCE 7-16

SolarAPP+ & submittal

SolarAPP+ Status
Adopted
Any SolarAPP+ Restrictions
1
SolarAPP+ Restrictions
Existing Systems,Trenching,MPU,Derate
How Many Plansets Required
3
Revision Required
1
New Planset Required For Module Swap
0

Stamps

Ee Stamp Required On SLD
Yes
Wet Stamps Required
None
Structural Calculations Required
No
Stamp Location On Plans
Unspecified
Date On Stamps
Expiration Date

Fire setbacks

Fire Setback Enforced
1
Setback Notes

Standard

Structural & loads

Wind Speed
110
Wind Notes

Exposure Category B

Snow Load
0
Reducible Snow Load Allowed
1
Max Attachment Spacing
96
Structural Notes
Tilt kits over 18" require structural engineering
Minimum Ground On Roof
#10

Electrical

Electrical Load Calcs Required
Derates
Allowed POI
Load Side Taps,PV Breaker,Meter Adapter,Line Side Taps
Panel Schedule Required
Partial Home Backup
Temperature Rating
90
De Rating Ampacity
1

Battery / ESS

Unique Battery Placards Needed
0
ESS Notes

Standard

Separate ESS Disconnect Required
ESS Disconnect
ESS Elevation Detail Required
No

Plan set

Plan Set Requirements

ground mounts and tilt kits over 18 require structural engineering. See CBC section 1704.6 for items required structural observation. - FILL OUT PAGES 3 & 4 for FLUSH/ROOF MOUNTED SOLAR.


If an MPU is to be included:

  • A separate set of plans will be required reflecting the MPU only (no PV) Eliminate all other sheets that do not apply to this scope and verify a panel schedule and load calcs are included.
  • Update the Scope Of Work note on cover sheet to reflect MPU only.
  • Must include Surge Protector on ELD with note: "Surge-protective device required for new dwelling electrical service."
  • Include specification sheets for new main service panel.
Electrical Diagram

Standard

Custom Placards Required
0

Ground mount

Ground Mount Fencing Required
Situational
Ground Mount Notes

Ground mounts require structural engineering For GM fencing - Depending on locations of the arrays, please call Planning Department at for more info.

Compiled from public records, 2026. Requirements change with code cycles and local amendments. Verify with the City of Santa Clara (CA) building department before you rely on this, and treat it as a research head start, not a ruling. Getting quotes? Run them through the quote checker first.