Why Solar Makes Sense in Tucson, Arizona
Tucson receives over 286 sunny days annually and has one of the highest solar irradiance levels in the entire country, making it ideal for both residential and commercial solar. Tucson Electric Power (TEP) serves the majority of Tucson and has an active solar incentive and interconnection program. Pima County and the City of Tucson have separate permitting jurisdictions depending on location.
Solar Permitting in Tucson, AZ: What You Need to Know
The solar permit process in Tucson, AZ, typically runs 3 to 6 weeks and is handled by a licensed contractor through the City of Tucson Development Center Online or, for quicker turnaround, the SolarAPP+ system. Required documents include site plans, structural drawings, and electrical diagrams, along with a Tucson Electric Power (TEP) interconnection application.
Key Steps in the Tucson Solar Permitting Process
- Application and Approval (1 to 4 Weeks): Contractors file plans through the Tucson Development Center Online. Residential projects outside a Historic Preservation Zone (HPZ) or Neighborhood Preservation Zone (NPZ) may qualify for the faster SolarAPP+ pathway.
- Utility Interconnection (TEP): A TEP Interconnection Application is required before connecting the system to the grid.
- Permit Issuance and Installation: Once the city and TEP grant approval, installation moves forward.
- Inspection: The City of Tucson conducts a final inspection to confirm code compliance.
- Permission to Operate (PTO): TEP installs a new meter and issues authorization to energize the system.
Important Information
- Fees: Solar permit fees in Tucson vary depending on system size and project scope.
- HOA: Arizona law prevents HOAs from prohibiting solar installations, though placement guidelines may still apply.
- Requirements: All projects must include complete electrical, structural, and site plan documentation.
- Licensing matters. Solar Permit Solutions works well with Arizona-licensed electrical contractors, so every project meets the state’s strict requirements from day one. When you work with Solar Permit Solutions, you get more than a permit. You get an experienced team of solar designers and permitting professionals who know Tucson’s process inside and out. We handle submissions, coordinate inspections, and manage utility paperwork so your project moves forward smoothly and without delays.
Solar Permit Design Services in Tucson
Our team delivers end-to-end solar permit design solutions for residential and commercial projects across Tucson, AZ. Each permit package we prepare is precisely engineered to meet local building codes and AHJ standards , so your project moves through the approval process without delays or setbacks.
Site Plans
Detailed site plans tailored for Tucson permit applications, covering accurate array placement, mandated setbacks, and clearly established property boundaries.
Electrical Drawings
Code-compliant electrical one-line and three-line diagrams designed and engineered to satisfy Tucson and Arizona’s electrical code standards.
Structural Calculations
Tucson-ready structural calculations and engineering reports, stamped by a licensed PE and prepared to meet the City of Tucson’s building department requirements.
Why Solar Permit Solutions for Your Tucson Solar Permit?
- Professional Engineers licensed and experienced across Arizona
- Nationwide coverage in all 50 states, one dedicated team for every project
- Expertise in residential, commercial, and off-grid solar systems
- Most plan sets delivered within 2 to 4 business days
- Permit-ready drawings done right the first time, reducing revision cycles
- PE stamps provided for every state that requires engineering certification
- In-depth knowledge of City of Tucson Development Services and Pima County Development Services requirements
Solar Permit Fees in Tucson
Solar permit fees in the City of Tucson are generally low for standard residential projects, often costing around $125.50 for systems with up to 30 panels, with no plan review fees for basic setups
Using the SolarAPP+ system typically allows for expedited permits (within 24 hours) for a small additional processing fee.
- Residential Fees: Standard rooftop systems with 1 to 30 panels typically range from $116.63 to $125.50 in permit fees.
- Larger Systems: Systems with 31 to 100 panels generally carry a permit fee of approximately $190.46.
- Permit Application: All applications are submitted through the City of Tucson Development Center Online (TDC Online).
- SolarAPP+: Projects using the SolarAPP+ automated review pathway are subject to a $35 PV permit fee, or $25 for combined PV and storage installations.
- Inspection: A reconnect permit may also be required, with costs running approximately $135.59.
- Additional Fees: Extra costs may apply for electrical panel upgrades or roof-mounted and ground-mounted system configurations depending on installation requirements.
For the most accurate and current pricing, fees should be confirmed directly through the City of Tucson Development Center Online prior to submitting your application.
Our Solar Permit Design Services in Tucson, AZ
- Permit-Ready Residential Solar Plan Sets for Tucson homeowners
- Commercial Solar Permit Plans for businesses in Tucson
- PE-Stamped Structural and Electrical Drawings
- Utility Interconnection Documentation (Tucson Electric Power (TEP))
- City of Tucson Development Services/Pima County Development Services compliant plan sets
- Ground-Mount and Rooftop System Designs
- Rapid Shutdown and Power Optimizer compliance drawings
- Fast 2–4 business day turnaround on most projects
Ready to Start Your Solar Project in Tucson, AZ?
Get professional, permit-ready plan sets designed for your local building department requirements. PE-stamped plans delivered in 2-5 business days.