Permit timeline · Bay Area, CA

Contra Costa County: what happens after you say yes

Soft costs and surprise process are why excited buyers ghost installers. This checklist is a planning overview — always confirm current rules with the authority having jurisdiction and your utility.

1. 1

   Confirm jurisdiction

   Verify whether the property is in unincorporated Contra Costa County or within city limits (Walnut Creek, Concord, etc.). County permits apply only to unincorporated parcels.

   County Building Inspection →
2. 2

   Submit building permit application

   File a residential solar PV building permit with plans showing array layout, structural attachment details, and one-line electrical diagram. Expedited review is often available for standard rooftop systems under 10–15 kW.

3. 3

   Plan check & corrections

   Respond to any plan-check comments (fire setbacks, grounding, Rapid Shutdown labeling). Once approved, pay fees and schedule inspections.

4. 4

   Rough / final inspection

   After installation, request final building inspection. Keep the approved permit package on-site for the inspector.

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