How does SolarAPP+ impact our existing permit fees?

How Permitting Fees Work with SolarAPP+

The fee collection process depends on which SolarAPP+ model your jurisdiction selects. In both cases, SolarAPP+ does not affect the fees your city or county collects — your existing permit fee structure stays intact.

1. Standalone Model

AHJs using the standalone model register for a Stripe Connect account directly through the SolarAPP+ onboarding dashboard. When an installer submits a project in your jurisdiction, they are prompted to pay at the end of the application — this includes both the SolarAPP+ administrative fee and your jurisdiction's permitting fee.

Key details:

• Your permitting fee is processed by Stripe and deposited directly into your jurisdiction's bank account
• SolarAPP+ never handles or holds funds — only Stripe does
• Your jurisdiction owns the Stripe account and has full access to financial reporting

2. With GovTech

For jurisdictions already using an online permitting portal (such as Accela, Tyler EnerGov, eTRAKiT, or similar), the contractor continues paying permitting fees directly in your existing portal — no change to that workflow. The SolarAPP+ application fee is collected separately within the SolarAPP+ platform.

Key details:

• The contractor applies for an automated permit in your existing portal using the SolarAPP+ approval documents
• Permitting fees are handled by the payment vendor associated with your existing system
• SolarAPP+ collects only its own administrative fee — your fee structure and payment workflow remain unchanged