Solar

This handout is a compilation of some of the standard requirements based on the State Building Code and City Ordinance for projects of this type. This information packet does not contain all the specific codes for construction and should only be used as a guide. The permittee is responsible to meet all code requirements applicable to each project.

Note: If home is a Heritage Preservation Site prior approval from city planner and/or HPC is required before issuance of permit.

Submittals:

• Permit Application - Residential Solar PV Building
• Electrical Permit Application
• Plans Including:
  • Seal by MN Engineer
  • Panel layout
  • Required setbacks at ridge
  • Required access pathways
  • Locations of vents and pipes on roof
• Manufacturer details and insulation requirements for all components.
  • Including UL listing specifications for panels (UL 1703) and inverters (UL 1741).
  • Rack mounting details and calculations
  • Locations and labels for compliance with NEC 690

Required Inspections:

• Electrical Final
• Building Final (after electrical has been approved, be sure system is free of debris and snow before scheduling)
  • City approved plan-set must be on site at time of inspection.
  • Provide photos of systems not visible from the ground.

Typical Code Requirements

• See MN DLI Residential Solar Handout for additional information 
• The solar photovoltaic panel system shall be designed for a wind speed of 115 mph.
• Systems shall support a snow load of 35 pounds per square foot.
• PV panels shall not cover exhaust hoods, interfere with plumbing vent terminations or impede maintenance of hoods or vents.
• Roof and wall penetrations shall be flashed and sealed.

Required Setback at Ridge

• Systems covering 33% or less of the roof surface shall be installed at least 18-inches below the ridge.
• Systems covering more than 33% of the roof surface shall be installed at least 36-inches below the ridge.
• Alternate setbacks at ridge are available for buildings equipped with automatic fire sprinkler systems.

Required Access and Pathways

• A minimum of two 36-inch-wide pathways shall be provided on separate roof planes, from the lowest roof edge to the ridge. At least one of these pathways shall be provided on the driveway side of the roof.
• On each roof plane with a solar array, a pathway of no less than 36-inches wide shall be provided from eave to ridge on the same roof plane, straddling the same and adjacent plane, or on adjacent plane.
• Pathways shall be over areas capable of supporting firefighters and shall be located in areas with minimal obstructions such as vent pipes, conduit, or chimneys.
• Panels shall not be placed below emergency escape and rescue openings unless a 36-inch wide pathway is provided.