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Fairfield · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in Fairfield

Fairfield's own rules on solar panels and EV chargers, with the code text for every value.

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Each rule below links to the section of the Fairfield Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Fairfield's code says

Fairfield code What Fairfield's code adds
EV charger permit
  • Fast nondiscretionary permit, issued when the station meets all code rules; apply in person, by mail or electronically.
    Applies: Applies to installing an electric vehicle charging station anywhere in the city.
    § 5.1.4.10 · code text
    Anyone seeking to install an electric vehicle charging station at any site within the city may apply to the building official for an expedited nondiscretionary building permit.
Solar height and setbacks
  • Must not exceed the maximum legal building height.
    Applies: Required to qualify as a small rooftop home solar system for fast review.
    § 5.1.4.9 · code text
    A solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the authority having jurisdiction.
  • Allowed by Zoning Clearance in rear or side yards if accessory structure standards (Table 25-7) are met.
    Applies: Applies to ground-mounted solar in single-family residential zones.
    § 25.30.8 · code text
    In all single family residential zoning districts, ground-mounted support frames or structures for stand-alone solar energy systems may be approved through Zoning Clearance if located in rear or side yards and all standards for accessory structures in Table 25-7 are met.
Solar permit process
  • Fast permit once complete: same day over the counter, or 1 to 3 business days for electronic applications.
    Applies: Applies to small rooftop home solar systems; electronic filing is available.
    § 5.1.4.9 · code text
    Electronic submittal of the required permit application and documents by the Internet shall be made available to all small residential rooftop solar energy system permit applicants.
  • A building permit is required before installation.
    § 25.30.8 · code text
    The applicant shall submit for and receive approval of a building permit prior to installation of any solar energy system, as well as any other permits or approvals specified below.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for solar panels or an EV charger in Fairfield?

Fairfield's code: Fast permit once complete: same day over the counter, or 1 to 3 business days for electronic applications. (Applies to small rooftop home solar systems; electronic filing is available.) (§ 5.1.4.9); Fast nondiscretionary permit, issued when the station meets all code rules; apply in person, by mail or electronically. (Applies to installing an electric vehicle charging station anywhere in the city.) (§ 5.1.4.10).

General information, not legal advice.

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Fairfield Municipal Code — full text