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The City of San Carlos has been working toward streamlining the solar permitting process for some time. We wanted to make this process fast, easy and transparent. By reducing the “soft costs”, we are doing our part to help make solar more affordable for our residents and business owners. Achieveing SolSmart recognition demonstrates our leadership and commitment to bringing solar power to our community."Mayor Cameron Johnson
SolSmart Criteria
Program Highlights
SolSmart Criteria
Created an online permitting checklist, increasing transparency for community members and solar installers
Reviewed local zoning codes and identified restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit solar PV development
Allowed solar by-right accessory use in all zones (so solar installations don’t require special permits or hearings)
Cross-trained both inspection and permitting staff on solar PV
Provided a streamlined permitting pathway for small PV systems
Program Highlights
Created a streamlined process to approve certain solar permit applications over the counter
Provided an online process for scheduling and responding to inspection requests
Hosted a community “Solarize” campaign, allowing residents to benefit from group discounts and affordable solar financing
Provided Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing for eligible properties