Understanding Additional Requirements in SolarAPP+
Some jurisdictions have requirements that fall outside of the standard SolarAPP+ process. We call these Additional Requirements.
In plain terms: Additional Requirements are extra rules, documents, or steps a jurisdiction enforces that go beyond SolarAPP+’s standard automated checks.
In the spirit of transparency, SolarAPP+ always shares as much information as possible about these requirements. Depending on the jurisdiction, you may see different categories of information displayed.
If you encounter a requirement that is not documented in SolarAPP+, please let us know by emailing support@gosolarapp.org.
Why Additional Requirements Matter
- Ensure your system is compliant with local codes.
- Avoid project delays from missing documents or steps.
- Helps you know what to expect even if you've never worked in the jurisdiction.
Examples of Additional Requirements
These can vary by jurisdiction, but may include:
- Additional permits needed
- Extra structural calculation forms
- Additional inspections beyond a final inspection
Where to Find Additional Requirements
Additional requirements can be accessed at several points in the process: before, during, and after your application.
Before Starting an Application
- Log in to your SolarAPP+ account.
- Navigate to your Jurisdiction Licenses page.
- Find the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) you’d like to review.
- Click the three dots on the right-hand side and select View Requirements.
- A pop-up window will appear with:
- A link to the jurisdiction’s website
- A link to any documents with additional code requirements (if available)
- The jurisdiction’s design requirements to help you prepare your system design
- The additional requirements section, which lists any non-standard requirements
While Completing an Application
On the first page of the application, scroll to the Jurisdiction Requirements section to see additional requirements for your AHJ.
After Completing an Application
Once your application is complete, you can access requirements again on the Project Review page:
- Click View on an approved project
- Find Jurisdiction Requirements under the "Project Information section"
- Click the blue View Requirements button to open a pop-up window with this information
Email Notifications
If additional requirements are in place, your SolarAPP+ approval email will also include a copy of them. This ensures you are fully aware of what’s needed to successfully complete your project, even if the jurisdiction operates outside of the standard SolarAPP+ process.
FAQs
- What if I don’t see any Additional Requirements listed?
- Not all jurisdictions have them — if none are listed, you can proceed with the standard SolarAPP+ process.
- What if the jurisdiction’s requirements is outdated?
- Please contact support@gosolarapp.org so we can update it.
- Do Additional Requirements replace SolarAPP+ checks?
- No — they are in addition to the automated SolarAPP+ process.
- Who creates the Additional Requirements?
- They are provided by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) — SolarAPP+ does not set or create them, but we display them to keep you informed.
- Can I complete my project without meeting the Additional Requirements?
- No. These requirements are mandatory for that jurisdiction and must be followed, even if you already have SolarAPP+ approval.
- Why do some jurisdictions have Additional Requirements?
- The vast majority of jurisdictions using SolarAPP+ rely entirely on the standard SolarAPP+ process with no extras. Only a small percentage of jurisdictions add their own additional requirements. When this happens, SolarAPP+ makes them visible so you can plan ahead and avoid surprises.
- Are Additional Requirements always documents?
- Not always — they may include forms, code references, design standards, or inspection requirements.
- Do Additional Requirements change often?
- Yes, they can. Jurisdictions may update their codes or processes at any time. SolarAPP+ updates what we display as soon as we receive new information.
- Can I get notified when a jurisdiction updates their Additional Requirements?
- Currently, updates are reflected in SolarAPP+ and your approval email. If you’re concerned about frequent changes, we recommend checking the Jurisdiction Requirements pop-up before every new project.