SLC.gov

Project Information Required

• Contact name, phone, email, and date
• Total valuation and electrical valuation
• Permit type: commercial or residential
• Site address and comments
• State license number
• System size in kW
• Mounting location: roof or ground
• Location on site: primary or accessory structure
• System type: AC module, micro-inverter, or standard string

Required Submittals

• A completed Solar PV Packet
• A site plan showing the location of major components on the property. The drawing should show the relative location of system components.
• An electrical diagram showing PV array configuration, wiring system, overcurrent protection, inverter, disconnects, required labels, and AC connection to the building.

The sample site plan on page 6 shows a typical layout with panel locations, meter, disconnects, inverter, and major clearances. The sample on page 7 shows a standard one-line electrical diagram for a small-scale single-phase system.

Building Code Review of PV Array System

The application asks whether the array is mounted on a code-compliant roof structure and whether the roof and mounting system meet basic installation requirements.

• Roof must be code compliant or a completed structure worksheet must be submitted
• Roofing type and number of roof coverings must be identified
• Roof penetrations must be weatherproofed with mechanical flashing
• Any required vent modification or relocation must be identified
• Mounting system must be an engineered product designed for PV modules

For manufactured mounting systems, the packet requests manufacturer and model information, total system weight, number of attachment points, weight per attachment point, spacing between attachment points, total module area, and distributed roof load.

Structural Worksheet

A structure worksheet is required for certain roof-mounted systems and for some ground-mounted systems.

• Identify whether the roof uses rafters, trusses, or another system
• Provide rafter size, spacing, and unsupported span for site-built framing
• Indicate whether rafters are over-spanned
• Additional structural information is required if:
  • rafters or trusses are over-spanned
  • the array exceeds 5 pounds per square foot
  • dead load exceeds 45 pounds per attachment
  • remaining capacity is less than required live loads

In those cases, applicants must provide either a framing plan showing strengthening details or confirmation from a design professional that the roof structure will support the array. Ground-mounted systems must show supports, framing members, posts, footings, and module attachment details.

Electrical Review

To qualify for permit review under this packet, the PV system must meet all of the following:

1. PV modules, utility-interactive inverters, and combiner boxes must be UL listed and identified for the application
2. The PV array must have 4 series strings or fewer per inverter and be 15 kW or less
3. Total inverter capacity must have a continuous AC power output of 13,440 watts or less
4. The AC interconnection point must be on the load side of the service disconnecting means
5. A supplied standard electrical diagram must accurately represent the PV system

Zoning Review

Zoning requirements differ for ground-mounted systems, roof-mounted systems, and properties with historic restrictions.

Ground-Mounted Systems

• Subject to accessory building height restrictions in the zoning district
• Must be at least 6 feet from a property line and adjacent structures
• Cannot remove or encroach on required parking and loading areas
• Ground coverage counts toward allowable building coverage

Roof-Mounted Systems

• May be located on an accessory structure less than 6 feet from a property line
• Cannot extend more than 3 feet above the maximum building height, or more than 12 feet above the roof line, whichever is less
• Cannot exceed 90% of the total roof area of the building

Historic Districts and Landmark Sites

• A Certificate of Appropriateness is required before a permit is issued
• The system must be placed in the least visible or least obtrusive location possible
• Preferred locations are reviewed in a hierarchy, starting with locations not visible from the public right of way

Fire Code Review

Fire review focuses on access, disconnect locations, labeling, conduit protection, and bonding.

• Site plan must show a clearly dimensioned pathway and access path to and around the panels
• Minimum fire access is generally 3 feet to the ridge and along one side
• System disconnects should be located in the same location as the utility disconnects
• Weather-resistant permanent labels must be provided on equipment, conduits, raceways, and junction boxes every 10 feet
• Metal conduits or MC cable must be clearly labeled until the first readily accessible disconnect when DC conductors are under the roof deck or in attic space
• All metal parts must be bonded together and connected to the grounding system and the utility

The packet also includes required warning label text for bipolar systems, standard string systems, and underground photovoltaic power systems. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Sample Drawings Included in the Packet

The packet includes two examples to help applicants complete the submittal:

• A sample site plan on page 6 showing component placement and clearances
• A standard string system electrical diagram on page 7 showing a one-line layout and equipment schedule

Important Note

The permit becomes null and void if the authorized work is not commenced within 180 days, or if the work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after it has started. The applicant certifies that the information is true and that all applicable laws and ordinances will be followed.

Contact Information

Building Services

Phone: 801-535-6000
Website: www.slcpermits.com