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San Jose · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in San Jose

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

What San Jose's code says

San Jose code What San Jose's code adds
EV charger permit
  • The building permit is issued without discretion for complete applications that meet the approved checklist and city requirements.
    Applies: Applies to complete applications.
    § 17.88.420 · code text
    The building official shall issue a building permit, the issuance of which is nondiscretionary, for complete applications that meet the requirements of the approved checklist and Part 3 of this chapter.
Solar permit process
  • A nondiscretionary building permit; apply in person or online.
    Applies: Applies to small home rooftop solar systems eligible for expedited review.
    § 17.86.420 · code text
    The building official shall issue a building permit, the issuance of which is nondiscretionary, on the same day for complete in person applications or complete online applications that meet the requirements of the approved checklist and Part 3 of this chapter.
Review time
  • The permit is issued the same day.
    Applies: Applies to complete in-person or online applications for small home rooftop solar that meet the approved checklist and city requirements.
    § 17.86.420 · code text
    The building official shall issue a building permit, the issuance of which is nondiscretionary, on the same day for complete in person applications or complete online applications that meet the requirements of the approved checklist and Part 3 of this chapter.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

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

San Jose's code: A nondiscretionary building permit; apply in person or online. (Applies to small home rooftop solar systems eligible for expedited review.) (§ 17.86.420); The building permit is issued without discretion for complete applications that meet the approved checklist and city requirements. (Applies to complete applications.) (§ 17.88.420).

General information, not legal advice.

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San Jose Municipal Code — full text