4 Common Permitting Challenges for DIY Solar (And How to Handle Them)
- Solerus Energy
- Dec 8, 2025
- 3 min read
For many DIY solar homeowners, the maze of local regulations and permitting can feel more challenging than a rooftop installation!
Every city, county, and state has its own rules, which can change often. Between understanding electrical codes, preparing paperwork, and waiting on approvals, permitting can drag on and on.
At Solerus Energy, we help simplify that process and turn what might seem like red tape into a manageable, step-by-step achievement.
Common Permitting Challenges for Homeowners
Permitting complexity varies by region. Some states, like California and Arizona, have standardized online portals that make the process straightforward. Others, including many in the Northeast and Midwest, still rely on physical submissions and longer review cycles. Solerus helps homeowners navigate these regional differences, providing templates and guidance tailored to each jurisdiction.
The most frequent obstacles DIYers encounter are:
Unclear requirements: Each Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) sets its own guidelines, which differ widely from one location to another.
Detailed electrical reviews: Inspectors often scrutinize wiring diagrams and load calculations to ensure systems meet the National Electrical Code (NEC). Even small errors can cause setbacks.
Paperwork and documentation: Permit applications require site plans, engineering reports, and electrical drawings. Missing or incorrect information can result in rejection and resubmission.
Long approval timelines: Many municipalities still rely on manual review, and permit backlogs can delay projects for weeks or months.
How Solerus Helps
At Solerus Energy, we provide full support to all our customers from beginning to end of their project, including permitting. We combine automation with real-world experience to make the permitting process faster and easier. Our design services develop professional, code-compliant plan sets that meet AHJ and NEC requirements — reducing back-and-forth and helping you get approved faster.
Our electrical design tools automatically create single-line and three-line diagrams, calculate loads, and apply the correct NEC codes for your region. We also maintain an updated database of over 16,000 AHJs across all 50 states, so your plans are built to match local rules.
We can also help verify and fulfill special requirements, such as HOA documentation or jurisdiction-specific forms, before you submit. And if you’d prefer a walkthrough, our team can review your application packet before you file it to catch any potential issues.
The result: a 97% acceptance rate for Solerus customers, and far fewer surprises during review.
What You Can Do for a Smoother, Faster Approval
Gather your documents early, including your property survey, utility bill, and any previous roof or electrical upgrades.
Double-check that your system plans meet the most current NEC requirements.
Confirm your jurisdiction’s submittal method (online or paper).
Schedule inspections as soon as possible after approval to keep your project moving.
Stay in touch with your local utility about interconnection timelines.
Once your permit is approved and installation is complete, you’ll submit an interconnection application to your utility. They’ll verify system specifications and, if needed, install a bi-directional meter before granting Permission to Operate (PTO).
Want Expert Help with Permitting?
Permitting can seem intimidating, but with the right tools and support, it doesn’t have to be. Solerus Energy’s design and permitting services are built to help homeowners move through approvals efficiently and confidently. With professional plans, automated documentation, and personalized guidance, you’ll spend less time chasing signatures and more time enjoying a lower energy bill.
Get in touch with our team to see how we can help!
