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Orinda · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in Orinda

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

What Orinda's code says

Orinda code What Orinda's code adds
EV-ready new homes
  • Infrastructure for future installation and use of EV chargers is required.
    Applies: Applies to newly built Group R-1, R-2, and R-3 buildings.
    § 15.08.110 · code text
    Newly constructed Group R-1, R-2, and R-3 buildings shall be provided with infrastructure to facilitate future installation and use of electric vehicle (EV) chargers
  • EV charging spaces with fully working EV chargers.
    Applies: Where required, in newly built Group R-2 buildings.
    § 15.08.110 · code text
    where required, newly constructed Group R-2 buildings shall be provided with electric vehicle charging spaces equipped with fully-operational EV chargers
Solar height and setbacks
  • Panels may not exceed the zoning district's building height limit.
    Applies: Required for a small residential rooftop solar system to qualify for expedited permitting.
    § 15.60.020 · code text
    The system, when installed on a rooftop, does not exceed the building height limit of the zoning district in which it is located.
Solar permit process
  • Expedited, streamlined permits; apply and receive permits electronically; required fees must be paid.
    Applies: Applies to small residential rooftop solar systems.
    § 15.60.020 · code text
    The following expedited, streamlined permit process applies to applications for a building permit to install a small residential rooftop solar energy system:

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

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

Orinda's code: Expedited, streamlined permits; apply and receive permits electronically; required fees must be paid. (Applies to small residential rooftop solar systems.) (§ 15.60.020).

General information, not legal advice.

Ask about a specific Orinda property

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

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Orinda Municipal Code — full text