Solar Permit Checklist for Canadian Homeowners: Step by Step

This solar permit checklist walks you through every approval a typical Canadian home solar project needs, in the order you'll need them. Your installer will handle most of the applications, but you're the one who has to live with the result. Use this list to make sure nothing is missed and every document ends up in your files.

Before you sign a contract

• Check local rules. Ask whether your home is in a heritage district, and whether zoning limits height or ground-mount locations. See our guide to solar bylaws in Canada.
• Get condo, strata or landlord approval if you don't own the whole roof.
• Confirm who applies. Get it in writing: which permits the installer will apply for and whether fees are included.
• Check the installer's licences. The electrical work must be done by a licensed contractor. See what certifications your solar contractor should have.
• Look up incentives. Some programs require you to apply or register before installation. Check NRCan's directory of provincial and territorial incentives.

Before installation starts

• Utility connection application submitted and approved. Most utilities require approval before installation. See how the solar interconnection process works.
• Building permit issued, if required. In Ontario, rooftop arrays of 5 m² or more need a building permit and an engineered design. See the City of Ottawa's solar collector permit page as an example of what cities ask for.
• Electrical permit filed. In Ontario, the contractor files a notification of work with the Electrical Safety Authority before starting. In BC, permits come from Technical Safety BC or your city.
• Heritage or zoning approval received, if needed.
• Final design shared with you. Ask for the roof layout, the single-line electrical diagram and equipment spec sheets.

During and after installation

The last items on your solar permit checklist cover inspection and connection.

• Building inspection passed, if a building permit was issued.
• Electrical inspection passed. In Ontario, ESA must authorize the connection before the utility connects the system.
• Utility connection completed. The utility installs or reprograms the meter and confirms in writing that you can start operating.
• The system is not switched on for export until the utility says it can be.

Documents to keep

• Signed contract and final system design
• Building permit and inspection sign-off (if applicable)
• Electrical permit and inspection record or certificate
• Utility approval and connection agreement
• Equipment spec sheets and warranties (panels, inverter, racking)
• Invoices and proof of payment for incentive claims
• Photos of the installation, roof and electrical panel

Our guide to solar approval documents by province explains what each document is and who prepares it.

Why every item on the solar permit checklist matters

Skipping a permit can delay your grid connection, cause problems with an insurance claim or a home sale, and lead to orders to correct or remove the work. Some incentive programs also ask for proof of permits and inspections. A complete file protects your investment.

The bottom line

Work through this solar permit checklist with your installer: local rules and approvals first, then utility approval and permits before installation, then inspections and connection. Keep a copy of every document. For how long each stage usually takes, see our solar installation timeline. If you're also adding a heat pump, read our heat pump permit guide.

Frequently asked questions