Avoid rejections. Speed up approvals. Build with confidence.
When it comes to solar project execution, your permit planset isn’t just paperwork—it’s the foundation for fast, frictionless approval from the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). A well-prepared planset can mean the difference between immediate approval and costly delays.
At Arka360, we support thousands of solar installers across the U.S. with permit-ready plansets that are built to get approved. This blog breaks down what your residential or commercial planset should include, helping you standardize submissions, meet local and national codes, and get approvals right the first time.
🏡 Residential Planset Checklist
For rooftop systems typically between 3–15 kW
Residential solar PV systems are subject to strict requirements for safety, aesthetics, and code compliance. Use this checklist to ensure your planset covers what most AHJs expect.
🔹 1. Cover Sheet
Client name, project address, and installer/engineer details
System overview: size, technology, mounting type
Reference to applicable codes (NEC, IBC, IRC, IFC)
Utility interconnection requirements
🔹 2. Site Layout Plan
Property layout with arrays, inverters, trenching paths, and conduit runs
Placement of disconnects, meters, and fire access zones
Include a north arrow and mark obstructions like chimneys and vents
🔹 3. Array Construction Details
Roof or ground-mount structure description
Tilt angle, mounting hardware, rafter/pile specs
Load calculations: wind, snow, dead load, point loading
🔹 4. String Diagram
Grouping of modules into strings per MPPT
String count, max voltage (VOC), and current (ISC)
Ensure safe inverter loading
🔹 5. Three-Line or Single-Line Diagram
Full electrical flow: PV modules → utility interconnect
Ambient temp derating, voltage drop %, fuse/breaker sizing per NEC 240/310
🔹 7. Signage & Labeling Plan
Placement of NEC/IFC-required labels:
Rapid shutdown
Dual power sources
Disconnects & hazard warnings
Use UL-listed, weatherproof materials
🔹 8. Datasheets
UL-listed manufacturer specs for:
PV modules, inverters, optimizers, racking
Disconnects, meters, CT cabinets
🏢 Commercial Planset Checklist
For ground or rooftop systems typically above 30 kW
Commercial solar systems have more stakeholders, higher voltages, and complex compliance requirements. A complete planset helps avoid costly redlines and utility rejections.
🔹 1. Cover Sheet
Project scope, AC/DC size, contractor & engineer info
Trench paths, roads, setbacks, and fire access zones
Underground conduit locations
🔹 3. Array Construction Details
Ground-mount type (ballast, driven pile, pier)
Tilt angle, row spacing, height from grade
Structural loading based on ASCE and soil reports
🔹 4. String Diagram
String configurations per MPPT/inverter
Combiner box or homerun routing
VOC, ISC, module groupings
🔹 5. Three-Line or Single-Line Diagram
Full system from modules to interconnect
Include:
Solar load center, CT meter wiring
Surge protection devices
Grounding electrode conductor
Utility disconnect specs
Conductor and breaker sizing
🔹 6. Voltage Drop & Wiring Calculations
Conduit type, conductor size, derating, OCPD
Voltage drop across DC/AC segments
NEC-compliant load flow verification
🔹 7. Signage & Labeling Plan
Labeling across all disconnects, combiner boxes, meters, inverters
Use NEC 690/705 and utility-specific metal tags
🔹 8. Datasheets
UL-listed specs for:
Smart inverters (UL1741 SA), racking, switchgear
Disconnects, CT meters, combiner boxes
🚀 Why a Complete Planset Matters
Permitting delays can cost your business time, money, and credibility. A thorough, code-compliant planset reduces the chance of rejections or revision requests—giving your team more time to focus on what they do best: building solar.
Arka360’s advanced solar design software helps professionals submit permit-ready designs that pass 95% of AHJs on the first try, nationwide. And with a 24–48 hour turnaround, you stay ahead of schedule.
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