Solar panels and EV chargers in Livermore: the local rules

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

What Livermore's code says

Livermore code What Livermore's code adds
EV charger permit	The building official approves the application and issues all needed permits when it meets the City's adopted checklist. Applies: EV charging stations; the application must meet all laws and safety standards; no energizing or use before City approval. § 15.38.040 · code text A permit application that satisfies the information requirements in the City's adopted checklist shall be deemed complete and be promptly processed. You may submit the application electronically. Applies: Applies to EV charging station permit applications; electronic signatures are also accepted. § 15.38.040 · code text Consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, the building official shall allow for electronic submittal of permit applications covered by this chapter and associated supporting documentation.
Solar permit process	Administrative, nondiscretionary expedited review; only 1 inspection. Applies: Small residential rooftop solar with a complete application that meets the approved checklist and standard plan. § 15.36.060 · code text The City shall issue a building permit, the issuance of which is nondiscretionary, on the same day for over-the-counter applications or within one to three business days for electronic applications upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan and which does not require application for a zoning use permit pursuant to subsection B of this section.
Review time	The permit is issued the same day. Applies: Small residential rooftop solar; complete over-the-counter application meeting the checklist and standard plan, needing no zoning use permit. § 15.36.060 · code text The City shall issue a building permit, the issuance of which is nondiscretionary, on the same day for over-the-counter applications or within one to three business days for electronic applications upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan and which does not require application for a zoning use permit pursuant to subsection B of this section. The permit is issued within 1 to 3 business days. Applies: Small residential rooftop solar; complete electronic application meeting the checklist and standard plan, needing no zoning use permit. § 15.36.060 · code text The City shall issue a building permit, the issuance of which is nondiscretionary, on the same day for over-the-counter applications or within one to three business days for electronic applications upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan and which does not require application for a zoning use permit pursuant to subsection B of this section.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

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

Complete rooftop solar applications needing no use permit are processed same day over the counter, or in 1 to 3 business days electronically.

Solar panels and EV chargers in Livermore

Key points

What Livermore's code says

Who this affects

Frequently asked questions

Ask about a specific Livermore property

More on building on your lot in Livermore