SolSmart Designees

Oakland

California
SolSmart Gold
Population: 433,031
Designation Level: SolSmart Gold
Year Designated: 2018
  • 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.
  • Created a streamlined process to approve certain solar permit applications over the counter.