The installation of a Solar Photovoltaic System requires a building permit in addition to an electrical permit in order to ensure compliance with City code. However; if the installation of the Solar Photovoltaic System can be completed according to the specified guidelines, the Department of Licenses and Inspection will waive the requirement for a separate building permit.
To determine if a project requires a building permit and for guidance on the permit process, please review the following documents:
Standard Solar Permitting Process
Expedited Solar Permitting Process
To obtain a Building Permit, submit a completed permit application in-person at the Municipal Services Building (MSB) Concourse.
See Building Permits for complete building permit information, including processing time and fees.
Guidebook for Solar Photovoltaic Projects in Philadelphia
The following information must be submitted with all permit applications. Permit applications will not be accepted without these documents.
Tax Clearance Form from the Revenue Department for the Contractor – These forms may be obtained on line at the Tax Compliance website. Once printed, the form is valid for thirty (30) days.
A current, valid Certificate of Insurance for the Contractor – The Certificate of Insurance must indicate current coverage for comprehensive general liability, workers compensation and automobile liability. The comprehensive general liability (including products and completed operations) must evidence a minimum limit of liability of $500,000 per occurrence. The Certificate of Insurance must describe the type of operations/work the contractor has coverage for, which must be consistent with the Contractor’s permit application. The certificate must also include a contact name and phone number of the contractor’s insurance broker or agent. The City of Philadelphia must be named Certificate Holder and Additional Insured under the contractor’s comprehensive general liability insurance policy.
Note: It is not acceptable for the additional insured requirement to be conditional upon there being a written contract.