Solar Permitting

Automated Solar Permitting with SolarApp+

The City of Foster City is now piloting automated permitting for eligible new residential rooftop solar projects through SolarAPP+. To see which systems are eligible, please refer to the Eligibility Checklist. Only projects that conform to this list may apply for a permit through SolarAPP+. The approval process is only for standard solar installs at this time. Systems including Main Panel Upgrades, and Battery Storage are not current'y eligable.

Submit for automated review through SolarAPP+

1. Confirm that you have an active City of Foster City Business License prior to applying. 
2. If new to SolarAPP+, create and account and register as an installer on SolarAPP+.
3. Create a new project and include all necessary information.
4. Submit the application and pay the permit fee and any additional fees.
5. Download the Inspection Checklist to be reviewed during the inspection.

Apply for a building Permit

After the application has been approved through SolarAPP+, you will need to apply for a building permit.

1. Go to our Online Permit Center
2. Login with your Contractor account (If you do not have a contractor account, contact cddpermit@fostercity.org to be setup.)
3. Under Building Permits click Apply / New Permit
4. Select SOLARAPP PLUS as your Permit Type
5. Entering in your permit description, job value, SolarAPP+ information, location, and upload your SolarAPP+ Approval Document. (The SolarAPP+ Approval Document is required before inspections will occur.)
6. Fill out the remainder of the online permit application and pay for your applicable fees.

INSPECTION SCHEDULING

1. When your project is ready for inspections, you can schedule your inspections in our Online Permit Center.
2. Login to our Online Permit Center with your Contractor account. You will see your SolarAPP+ Permit on your dashboard under My Active Permits
3. Click the Request link under the Inspection column
4. Fill out the Inspection Request form to schedule your inspection.