Residential Solar Permits

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If you’re not using SolarAPP+, you could be missing out on same-day solar permit approvals. Licensed solar contractors can utilize SolarAPP+ for eligible residential solar projects, streamlining the permitting process and reducing turnaround times.

What’s the criteria? Residential solar projects are eligible if they are roof-mounted and NOT located in a Historic Preservation Zone (HPZ) or Neighborhood Preservation Zone (NPZ). If your property is in an HPZ or NPZ, please apply through Tucson Development Center Online.

To learn more about SolarAPP+, training is available. The SolarAPP+ team is ready to help you and your team get up to speed quickly. Click here to sign up for training. You can also check out the helpful SolarAPP+ Handout, which provides a quick overview of the tool and guidance on getting started.

Get Started

(*See Notes)

  1. Eligibility to use SolarAPP+ (a*)
    • Main Dwelling Rooftop, Permitted, Residential structures only
    • No Ballasted Systems
    • Not in a special district or in a historic preservation zone
    • Not in an environmentally sensitive area or hillside development zone
    • Not located in a County Flood Hazard or flood plain area (b*)
    • Not to be used with an existing photovoltaic (PV) system
    • Located within the City of Tucson limits
    • Licensed contractors only
  2. Submit for Automated Review Through SolarAPP+
    • Submit your design to SolarApp+
    • Click Login or Register to get started (c*)
    • A $25 processing fee will be charged by the SolarAPP+ website (d*)
  3. Apply for Permit
    • Visit Tucson Development Center Online to apply for your solar permit
    • Click Apply and select "Residential Solar App" on the top bar to begin your application
    • Include your approved set of documents, "as-built" drawings, and your SolarAPP+ approval number to proceed (e*)
    • Include the word "SolarAPP+" as the first word in the project description
    • Customers will be charged permit fees through TDC Online
    • Revisions, See the Submitting Your Revision tab

  4. Schedule Your Inspection

    • Your permit will be issued within 24 hours
    • Once your permit has been issued, customers will be able to schedule virtual inspection
    • To schedule your virtual inspection, visit Tucson Development Center Online under the Inspections tab

Please review the SolarApp+ Frequently Asked Questions. If you have additional questions, email pdsdinquiries@tucsonaz.gov.

Notes

(a) If your solar panel installation conflicts with any of the qualification criteria, please submit your application and documents using the standard permitting process. Use Property Research Online to research your property.
(b) For properties inside of Flood Hazard Areas, if the system is being installed with a lease agreement the SolarAPP+ automated review may be used. If the property lies in a Flood Hazard Area and the system will be owned by the property owner, a traditional plan review will be required.
(c) When registering with SolarAPP+, please have your Contractors license information on hand.
(d) This step does not issue a building permit. Proceed to the next step to apply for your building permit with a list of required inspections.
(e) A permit will be issued upon payment. This fee will need to be paid prior to scheduling your inspections

Other Resources

Pima County Solar One Stop
SolarApp+
TEP Solar Saturation Maps
Arizona Solar Center

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