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Monterey County · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in Monterey County

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

Ask about solar panels and EV chargers in Monterey County See coverage

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

What Monterey County's code says

Monterey County code What Monterey County's code adds
EV charger permit
  • Apply electronically; a complete application meeting the county checklist, with fees paid, gets administrative nondiscretionary review.
    Applies: Electric vehicle charging stations.
    § 18.18.050 · code text
    An application and related documentation to install an electric vehicle charging station may be submitted electronically in the manner specified by the County.
Solar permit process
  • Apply electronically; a complete application meeting the checklist and standard plans, with fees paid, gets administrative nondiscretionary review.
    Applies: Small residential rooftop solar systems.
    § 18.17.050 · code text
    An application and related documentation to install a small residential rooftop solar energy system may be submitted electronically in the manner specified by the County.
  • One inspection by the Building Official, with a separate fire inspection before it.
    Applies: Small residential rooftop solar systems eligible for expedited review.
    § 18.17.060 · code text
    Only one inspection shall be required and performed by the Building Official for small residential rooftop solar energy systems eligible for expedited review under this Chapter.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

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

Monterey County's code: Apply electronically; a complete application meeting the checklist and standard plans, with fees paid, gets administrative nondiscretionary review. (Small residential rooftop solar systems.) (§ 18.17.050); Apply electronically; a complete application meeting the county checklist, with fees paid, gets administrative nondiscretionary review. (Electric vehicle charging stations.) (§ 18.18.050).

General information, not legal advice.

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

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Monterey County Municipal Code — full text