City of Philadelphia - Streamlined Solar Permitting and Fee Reduction

June 05, 2024

Summary

Photovoltaic systems of 10 kW or less installed on 1- or 2-family residential units are eligible for streamlined permitting and a fee reduction. PV projects can use a combined electrical and building permit (an "EZ Permit") instead of filling out two separate permits if the project meets certain installation and electrical requirements (as outlined on the combined permit form).

Certain installations are prohibited:

On engineered roof trusses, except when the applicant provides a letter from a professional engineer stating that the roof has been inspected and the proposed solar system has been evaluated and will not negatively impact the structural integrity of the roof system.
Roof slopes exceed 17% (2:12 pitch)
The property is designated historical by the Philadelphia Historical Commission

Philadelphia has a Solar Panel Installation Overview to assist residents and builders in Philadelphia through the process of obtaining the necessary permits and installing solar.

Program Overview

Implementing Sector:	Local
Category:	Financial Incentive
State:	Pennsylvania
Incentive Type:	Green Building Incentive
Web Site:	http://www.phila.gov/green/solarGuidebook.html
Administrator:
Start Date:
Eligible Renewable/Other Technologies:	Solar Photovoltaics

Authorities

Name:	Council Bill No. 110553
Date Enacted:	11/14/2011

Name:	Council Bill No. 110829
Date Enacted:	12/21/2011

Contact

Name:	Permit Information
Organization:	City of Philadelphia
Address:
Phone:	(215) 686-2567
Email:	permit.services@phila.gov

Name:	Kristin Sullivan
Address:	1515 Arch Street, 13th Floor Philadelphia PA 19102
Phone:	(215) 982-0014
Email:	kristin.sullivan@phila.gov

This information is sourced from DSIRE; the most comprehensive source of information on incentives and policies that support renewables and energy efficiency in the United States. Established in 1995, DSIRE is operated by the N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center at N.C. State University.