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Solar panels and EV chargers in Irvine

Irvine'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 Irvine Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Irvine's code says

Irvine code What Irvine's code adds
EV charger permit
  • Apply electronically; the Building Official approves complete applications that meet the chapter administratively.
    Applies: Applies to EV charging station applications.
    § 5-9-705 · code text
    Every EVCS application shall be submitted to the City through an electronic submittal and shall contain the information set forth in the application checklist.
Solar height and setbacks
  • At most 2 feet above the roof surface, measured straight out, and never above the maximum building height.
    Applies: Applies to roof-mounted solar collectors.
    § 3-31-3 · code text
    The maximum height of a solar collector shall be two feet, measured perpendicular to the roof surface, and may not exceed the maximum overall building height.
  • Not allowed in front, side or rear building setbacks or the front yard area.
    Applies: Applies to residential ground-mounted solar systems.
    § 3-31-3 · code text
    All ground-mounted solar energy systems shall not be located within the front, side, or rear building setbacks, or front yard area, and shall comply with all applicable height restrictions.
  • Not allowed in any required building setback.
    Applies: Applies to residential covered parking solar systems, unless the code's exception is granted.
    § 3-31-3 · code text
    Covered parking solar energy systems shall not be located within any required building setback (except for where granted under the exception in Section 3-27-10).

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

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

Irvine's code: Apply electronically; the Building Official approves complete applications that meet the chapter administratively. (Applies to EV charging station applications.) (§ 5-9-705).

General information, not legal advice.

Ask about a specific Irvine property

Ask GoCodebook how Irvine's solar panels and EV chargers rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

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Irvine Municipal Code — full text