Skip to content

Modesto · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in Modesto

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

Ask about solar panels and EV chargers in Modesto See coverage

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

What Modesto's code says

Modesto code What Modesto's code adds
EV charger permit
  • The Building Official approves applications meeting the checklist, laws and health and safety standards; electronic submittal and signatures accepted.
    Applies: Electric vehicle charging stations.
    § 9-1.1904 · code text
    Consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, the Building Official shall allow for electronic submittal of permit applications covered by this article and associated supporting documentations.
Solar permit process
  • Apply in person at the Building Safety Department or electronically; electronic signatures accepted.
    Applies: Small residential rooftop solar systems.
    § 9-1.1805 · code text
    Applicants may submit the required permit application and documents in person at the City's Building Safety Department or may use electronic submittal.
  • Administrative, nondiscretionary review; approved when complete and meeting the checklist; only one inspection.
    Applies: Small residential rooftop solar systems.
    § 9-1.1806 · code text
    Only one (1) inspection shall be required and performed by the Building and Safety Services Department for small residential rooftop solar energy systems eligible for expedited review.
Review time
  • Application reviewed within 3 business days.
    Applies: Small residential rooftop solar with a complete application meeting the checklist and standard plan.
    § 9-1.1806 · code text
    The Building Official shall review the permit application within three (3) business days upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan.
  • Inspection scheduled within 5 business days of a request.
    Applies: Small residential rooftop solar.
    § 9-1.1806 · code text
    An inspection shall be scheduled within five (5) business days of a request and all reasonable efforts will be made by the City to perform the inspection during a scheduling window of no more than two (2) hours.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

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

Modesto's code: Apply in person at the Building Safety Department or electronically; electronic signatures accepted. (Small residential rooftop solar systems.) (§ 9-1.1805); The Building Official approves applications meeting the checklist, laws and health and safety standards; electronic submittal and signatures accepted. (Electric vehicle charging stations.) (§ 9-1.1904).

General information, not legal advice.

Ask about a specific Modesto property

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

Ask your question

More on building on your lot in Modesto

All building on your lot rules in Modesto

Sheds, garages and other accessory structures in Modesto

Grading and erosion control in Modesto

Parking spaces required for homes in Modesto

Home alarm permits and false alarms in Modesto

Trash and recycling carts in Modesto

Historic homes in Modesto

Modesto Municipal Code — full text