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Menlo Park · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in Menlo Park

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

What Menlo Park's code says

Menlo Park code What Menlo Park's code adds
EV charger permit
  • Fast, nondiscretionary permit approval when the application meets the checklist and standards with no specific, adverse safety impacts.
    Applies: Applies to electric vehicle charging stations.
    § 12.24.060 · code text
    Where the application meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standards and there are no specific, adverse impacts upon public health or safety, the building and safety division shall complete the building permit approval process, which is non-discretionary.
Solar permit process
  • Apply by e-mail, online, or at the building division counter; electronic signatures accepted.
    Applies: Applies to small rooftop home solar systems eligible for fast review.
    § 12.22.050 · code text
    Electronic submittal of the required permit application and associated documents for small residential rooftop solar energy system permits shall be made by email or the Internet. As an alternative, an applicant may submit a permit application and associated documents at the building division front counter during regular business hours.
  • Only 1 inspection, unless the work does not match approved plans or code.
    Applies: Applies to small rooftop home solar systems eligible for fast review.
    § 12.22.060 · code text
    Only one (1) inspection shall be required and performed by the building division for small residential rooftop solar energy systems eligible for expedited review.
  • Administrative, nondiscretionary plan check.
    Applies: Applies to small rooftop home solar systems.
    § 12.22.060 · code text
    If an application for the installation of a solar system is not denied in writing within forty-five (45) days of receipt of a complete application, the application shall be deemed approved, unless the delay is the result of a reasonable request for additional information.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

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

Menlo Park's code: Apply by e-mail, online, or at the building division counter; electronic signatures accepted. (Applies to small rooftop home solar systems eligible for fast review.) (§ 12.22.050); Fast, nondiscretionary permit approval when the application meets the checklist and standards with no specific, adverse safety impacts. (Applies to electric vehicle charging stations.) (§ 12.24.060).

General information, not legal advice.

Ask about a specific Menlo Park property

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

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Menlo Park Municipal Code — full text