Solar panels and EV chargers in San Rafael: the local rules

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

What San Rafael's code says

San Rafael code What San Rafael's code adds
EV charger permit	The city approves an EV charger administratively through a building permit or similar nondiscretionary permit. Applies: Applies to a completed application that meets every item on the application checklist. § 12.315.040 · code text The city shall administratively approve an application to install an electric vehicle charging station through the issuance of a building permit or similar nondiscretionary permit. Zoning review and clearance are required before the building permit is issued. Applies: Applies to outdoor EV chargers not attached to a building. Single-family homes are exempt. § 12.315.040 · code text For outdoor electric vehicle charging stations that are not attached to a building, zoning review and clearance from the planning division shall be required prior to the issuance of a building permit or similar nondiscretionary permit. Single-family residences are exempt from this zoning review and clearance.
Solar height and setbacks	Solar panels may not be placed in any required front or exterior side yard setback. Applies: Applies to solar installations on developed properties. § 14.16.307 · code text The solar installation shall not be placed within any required front or exterior side yard setback or within a required landscape area.
Solar permit process	A nondiscretionary building permit; one inspection, scheduled within 1 business day of a request. Applies: Applies to small home rooftop solar systems eligible for expedited review, with a complete application meeting the approved checklist and standard plan. § 12.320.060 · code text Upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan, the building official or his designee shall issue a building permit or other nondiscretionary permit the same day or the next day, for an application submitted over-the-counter, or within three (3) business days for applications that have been filed electronically. Solar is allowed by right with a building permit and ministerial review; no environmental and design permit is needed. Applies: Applies to solar on developed properties (roofs, paved parking or grounds) meant to offset the property's energy use and meeting zoning standards. § 14.16.307 · code text shall be permitted by right, subject to issuance of a building permit and ministerial review for compliance with the following standards:
Review time	Permit issued the same day or next day over the counter, or within 3 business days if filed electronically. Applies: Applies to small home rooftop solar systems eligible for expedited review, with a complete application meeting the approved checklist and standard plan. § 12.320.060 · code text the building official or his designee shall issue a building permit or other nondiscretionary permit the same day or the next day, for an application submitted over-the-counter

Who this affects

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Frequently asked questions

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

San Rafael's code: A nondiscretionary building permit; one inspection, scheduled within 1 business day of a request. (Applies to small home rooftop solar systems eligible for expedited review, with a complete application meeting the approved checklist and standard plan.) (§ 12.320.060); The city approves an EV charger administratively through a building permit or similar nondiscretionary permit. (Applies to a completed application that meets every item on the application checklist.) (§ 12.315.040).

Solar panels and EV chargers in San Rafael

What San Rafael's code says

Who this affects

Frequently asked questions

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