Do You Need a Permit to Go Solar in Canada? Here’s What to Know
Written by Solenery
2 min read
Introduction
So, you’re ready to put solar panels on your roof—congrats! But before the panels go up and the savings roll in, there’s a crucial (and often overlooked) step: permits. Whether you’re in Toronto, Calgary, or Charlottetown, getting solar installed legally in Canada involves municipal paperwork and electrical approvals.
The good news? Once you understand what’s needed, it’s pretty manageable—especially with a good installer in your corner. This article breaks down which permits you need, who applies for them, how long they take, and what varies by province. Let’s simplify solar compliance so you can power up with peace of mind.
What Permits Do You Actually Need?
There are two main types of permits most homeowners will need:
Types of Permits
- Electrical Permit: Required everywhere in Canada. It ensures your solar system is installed safely and up to code.
- Building Permit: Required if the installation affects your home’s structure—like reinforcing a roof or mounting racking.
Depending on where you live, you might also need:
Other Potential Requirements
- Zoning clearance (for homes in heritage districts or urban zones).
- Structural engineering reports (especially for older homes or snow-heavy regions).
Quick rule of thumb: If you’re installing solar panels on your roof—assume you’ll need at least an electrical permit, possibly both.
Who Applies for the Permits?
In most cases, your solar installer handles this—but always confirm it’s included in your quote.
What a Good Contractor Does
- Submits applications to the right municipal or provincial authority.
- Pays any permitting fees (or includes them in your invoice).
- Schedules inspections as required.
- Ensures everything is up to electrical and building code.
Tip: Ask this during the quoting process:
“Do you take care of all permitting and approvals, or do I need to do anything myself?”
Permitting by Province: What Changes Where?
Permitting processes vary from province to province (and even city to city). Here’s a snapshot:
Province-by-Province Requirements
| Province | Electrical Permit | Building Permit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | Yes – through ESA | Sometimes | ESA inspection required before connection. |
| British Columbia | Yes – via Technical Safety BC | Yes in most municipalities | Some cities (like Vancouver) have additional solar bylaws. |
| Alberta | Yes – municipal level | Often required | Varies by municipality (e.g., Calgary vs. Red Deer). |
| Nova Scotia | Yes – NS Power rules | Likely | Must meet net metering + permit standards. |
| Quebec | Yes – via licensed electrician | Yes (RBQ rules apply) | Heritage zoning can affect timelines. |
| PEI | Yes | Often | Permit rules are tied to rebate eligibility. |
Real Example: In Toronto, you need an ESA permit and may also need a building permit if your racking system affects the roof’s structure. In Victoria, BC, your solar array must meet local aesthetic rules in heritage zones.
How Long Do Permits Take?
Typical permitting timelines range from 1 to 4 weeks, depending on:
What Affects Permit Timing?
- Your municipality’s review speed.
- Time of year (spring and summer are busiest).
- Quality of your installer’s application (incomplete drawings = delays).
Estimated Timelines
- Small town or rural: 1–2 weeks.
- Mid-sized city: 2–3 weeks.
- Large urban centre (Toronto, Vancouver): 3–4 weeks.
Tip: If your project is urgent, ask your contractor if they offer expedited permitting (some do—for a fee).
What Can Go Wrong—and How to Avoid It
Permitting is one of the most common causes of project delays. Here’s how to avoid setbacks:
Common Issues
- Incomplete applications or missing diagrams.
- Unlicensed electricians submitting permits.
- Roofs that don’t meet structural load requirements.
- Property in heritage district with extra rules.
How to Prevent Problems
- Hire an installer who has worked in your municipality before.
- Ask for digital copies of all permit approvals.
- Schedule your install only after permit sign-off.
Conclusion
Permits may not be the most exciting part of going solar—but they’re essential to ensuring your system is safe, compliant, and eligible for rebates. The good news is, with a qualified installer, most of the heavy lifting is handled for you.