Small-Scale Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System
Small-Scale Solar Photvoltaic (PV) System
The Express Permit Program offers a streamlined way to obtain a permit for installation or replacement of a small rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system, with or without an associated energy storage system. The size of system allowed to use the Express Permit Program is appropriate for most residential installations and may work for some nonresidential installations.
Eligibility Summary
Additional terms, conditions, and limitations may apply.
Eligible
With drawings and calculations prepared by an Illinois-licensed architect or structural engineer:
- Installing a solar photovoltaic system with an inverter output of 13.44 kW or less
- Installing an energy storage system associated with a solar photovoltaic system, up to 20 kWh (10 kWh limit for some battery types)
Without drawings and calculations prepared by an Illinois-licensed architect or structural engineer:
- Removing an existing, permitted small-scale solar photovoltaic system and replacing it in the same configuration as a repair or in connection with reroofing
Not Eligible
- Installing a solar photovoltaic system with an inverter output exceeding 13.44 kW
- Working on a building containing an institutional (Group I) or hazardous (Group H) occupancy
- Installing a solar photovoltaic system on a roof with an average height exceeding 40 feet
- Installing a ballasted solar photovoltaic system on a roof with an average height exceeding 15 feet
- Installing a ballasted solar photovoltaic system on a sloped roof
- Attaching a solar photovoltaic system to the building with adhesives instead of mechanical fasteners (screws, bolts)
Important Considerations
Terms and conditions
See the full Terms and Conditions for Express Permit Program : Small-Scale Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System for further limitations on this type of permit.
Before You Apply
Evaluate your existing roof covering. In most cases, you won’t want to install new solar panels on a roof that will need significant repair or replacement within a few years.
You should also gather required documents, select required contractors and professionals, and have their license or registration numbers before starting the online permit application.
Required Documents
New installation or new configuration
Where the scope of work is “new” or “replacement (new configuration),” you must upload:
- Drawings prepared by an Illinois-licensed architect or structural engineer
- Electrical drawing
- Existing condition photograph (at least 1)
The drawings must confirm the structural adequacy of the existing roof, dimension all required setbacks and clearances, and detail the means of attachment for all exterior components of the photovoltaic system. The electrical drawing must show wiring methods, grounding, and bonding that comply with the Chicago Electrical Code.
Reinstallation
Where the scope of work is “replacement (same configuration),” you must upload:
- Electrical drawing
- Existing condition photograph (at least 1)
The electrical drawing must show wiring methods, grounding, and bonding that comply with the Chicago Electrical Code. The existing condition photograph(s) must show the existing configuration so that an inspector can confirm there is no change in configuration following with the replacement or reinstalled system.
Work on condominium property
If the work to be permitted is on property that is part of a condominium association (including work in an individually owned condominium unit) you must upload:
- Condominium association approval letter
This letter must briefly describe the work to be performed (example: interior renovations in unit 9A) and be signed by an authorized representative of the condominium association, such a property manager or officer of the association.
Project owned by a government entity
If the work to be permitted in being undertaken by or for a local, state, or federal government entity (such as Chicago Public Schools) you must upload:
- Government ownership or funding letter
If the government entity has a permit fee waiver ordinance, include a copy of that ordinance as part of this upload.
Project receiving construction funding from a government entity
If the work to be permitted or is receiving construction funding from a government entity (such as a Small Business Improvement Fund grant) you must upload:
- Government ownership or funding letter
The letter must be from the government entity providing the construction funding.
Required Contractors
A licensed general contractor (any class) is always required.
A licensed electrical contractor (general) is always required.
An Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) Distributed Generation Installer Certification is also required to install a solar photovoltaic system.
Required Design Professionals
Drawings and calculations prepared by an Illinois-licensed architect or structural engineer are always required for new installations.
That architect or engineer must be identified in the Additional Applicants section of the application.
Ordinances and Rules
Chicago Construction Codes Administrative Provisions, Section 14A-12-1204.2 (Stand-alone permit fees)
2019 Chicago Building Code, Section 14B-15-1510.7 (Photovoltaic panels and modules)
2018 Chicago Electrical Code, Section 14E-6-690 (Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems)
2018 Chicago Electrical Code, Section 14E-7-706 (Energy storage systems)
2019 Chicago Fire Prevention Code, Chapter 14F-12 (Energy systems)