🟡 How to Get a Solar Permit in DC: Step-by-Step for Residential & Commercial Projects

Thinking about installing solar panels in Washington, D.C.? Whether you’re a homeowner or commercial developer, getting the proper permits is a critical — and sometimes confusing — part of the process. DC has made major investments in solar energy, but the permitting process remains highly regulated.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process for securing a solar permit in DC, highlight potential challenges, and show how MCG Permits can help you avoid costly delays.

✅ Do You Need a Permit for Solar in DC?

Yes. In Washington, D.C., a building permit is required for nearly all solar installations — whether residential or commercial.

You’ll likely need permits if you are:

• Installing rooftop solar panels (even if flush-mounted)

• Adding ground-mounted systems

• Installing battery storage systems or EV chargers as part of your setup

• Making structural reinforcements to your roof to support solar load

• Installing solar within a Historic District or on a landmarked property

📄 What Types of Permits Are Involved?

Depending on the project, you may need one or more of the following:

Permit TypeRequired ForBuilding PermitAll structural work or equipment installationElectrical PermitAll solar systems must be installed by a licensed electricianHistoric Preservation Review (HPRB)If located within a DC Historic DistrictSolar System Interconnection ApprovalCoordination with Pepco, the local utilityDOEE Approval (for grants/incentives)For projects seeking Solar for All or other clean energy incentives

🧾 Step-by-Step Process for Getting a Solar Permit in DC

1. Site Evaluation & Engineering

• Conduct a structural assessment of your roof or land

• Generate solar design plans with specifications

• Prepare electrical diagrams and load calculations

💡 Pro tip: Be sure your system meets DC’s 2017 Energy Conservation Code, which governs energy efficiency standards for new systems.

2. Prepare and Submit Permit Applications

All applications go through DC’s Department of Buildings (DOB). You can file online via the DOB’s Citizen Access Portal.

You'll need to submit:

• Complete solar panel layout and electrical drawings

• Structural calculations (especially for rooftop systems)

• A signed permit application form

• Licensed contractor information

• Payment of permit fees

If in a Historic District, additional documentation is required:

• Street view and aerial photos of the roof

• Renderings of proposed panel visibility

• Design compatibility narrative

3. Utility Interconnection (Pepco)

While separate from DOB permitting, Pepco must approve your system for grid interconnection. This can run concurrently but must be completed before final inspection.

⚠️ Don’t overlook Pepco's required application. It includes:

Site plan

Equipment specs

Load calculations

System size (kW) and inverter details

4. Inspections

Once permits are issued and your contractor completes the work, DOB will conduct inspections:

• Electrical inspection

• Final building inspection

• Possibly a structural inspection (if modifications were made)

You’ll need to pass all inspections before activating your system or applying for final incentives.

🏛️ Special Considerations for Historic Properties

DC has over 50 Historic Districts, including Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, and others. If your building is in one of these areas, you must obtain Historic Preservation Office (HPO) approval.

Key restrictions:

• Panels must be minimally visible from public space

• Flush mounting is typically required

• Non-reflective panels and hidden conduit runs are preferred

• HPO may request modifications to your design to protect neighborhood character

🧭 MCG Permits can guide you through Historic Review applications and help reduce pushback from reviewers.

⏳ How Long Does It Take?

TaskTypical TimelinePlan preparation1–2 weeksPermit submission + approval2–4 weeks (residential), 4–6+ weeks (commercial)Pepco approval1–3 weeks (can overlap)Inspections + closeout1–2 weeks

Total time: 3–8 weeks, depending on project scope, accuracy of application, and agency workload.

🔁 If your plans are rejected, add 1–3+ weeks for revisions and resubmission.

💵 How Much Does It Cost?

Costs vary by system size and whether structural work is needed.

Cost ItemRangePermit fees (building + electrical)$250 – $1,200+Pepco interconnectionOften $0 for under 10kW, but variesDesign / engineering$500 – $2,000 (may be bundled with installer)Expediter servicesVaries based on complexity (ask us for a quote)

🧮 Interested in a cost estimator tool for solar permitting in DC? Let us know — we’re building one!

🛠️ How MCG Permits Can Help

We’ve helped hundreds of residential and commercial clients navigate the complex solar permitting process in DC. Our team handles:

✔️ Plan review & permit preparation
✔️ Coordination with architects & solar contractors
✔️ HPO / Historic Preservation documentation
✔️ Pepco interconnection application tracking
✔️ Fast-tracking applications through DC DOB
✔️ Final closeout coordination

📞 Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re a homeowner installing rooftop solar or a developer managing a large clean energy rollout, MCG Permits is here to help.

👉 Contact us today for a free consultation, or email us your project plans at sayhello@mcgpermits.com or call: 202-729-8272