Solar Panels

You will need a building permit before installing any solar photovoltaic (PV) system on your home or business if the installation will cover an area equal to or greater than five square metres (50 square feet). 

A building permit is not required for solar collector system installations where:

  • the panel is less than five square metres (50 square feet) in area
  • the panel is not installed on a building and is not connected to a plumbing or mechanical heating system

Fees

Building permit fees vary depending on the scope of your project. We will calculate all building permit fees after reviewing the application.
You will not be issued a building permit until you have paid all permit fees.

Apply for a building permit

Residential and commercial roofs are commonly built to withstand the required loads for snow, rain, and wind. The weight of solar panels increases the loading on the roof structure, and upgrading or reinforcing the roof structure may be needed to manage this additional weight of the solar panels. A professional Engineer can evaluate how these new loads will impact the existing roof structure. 

You application should include:

Other submission requirements

Building permit applications for mounted solar panels must include plans and specifications prepared by a Professional Engineer licensed in Ontario. The engineer must also complete an on-site review of the installation.

Submissions are assessed to confirm the roof and structure can safely support the collector system, including added loads from wind, snow, and anchoring.

Upgrades or reinforcement to the existing structure may be required to ensure the building can safely support the installation.

Submissions must also include:

  • a roof plan showing the layout and spacing of the solar collectors
  • a typical cross-section showing system height, tilt angle, and attachments
  • panel or module dimensions and manufacturer specifications, including dead load and ballast (if applicable)
  • mounting details, including attachment methods and any required framing reinforcement
  • confirmation that existing roof or wall framing can safely support all loads from the system, including dead, wind, snow, and seismic loads
  • mechanical drawings (plumbing schematic) for systems that heat water and connect to the potable water supply
  • a Commitment to General Review Form completed by a Professional Engineer

Completed permit applications should be submitted by email to the Permit Coordinator. 

Email the Permit Coordinator

Contact us

1024 Hurlwood Lane
Severn, Ontario

Phone: 705-325-2315
Fax: 705-327-5818
Contact us

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