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
- Include:
- DC string wiring & shutdown devices
- Inverter outputs
- Disconnects, panels, meters, junction boxes
- Grounding & bonding
- Conductor specs and overcurrent protection
🔹 6. Voltage Drop & Wiring Calculations
- AC/DC wire lengths, materials (Cu/Al), conduit sizing
- 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
- AHJ and utility contacts
- Code references (NEC 2023, IBC, IFC, IECC)
🔹 2. Site Layout Plan
- Array groupings, inverter pads, CT cabinets, transformers
- 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 helps solar 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.
🔧 Ready for Permit-Approved Plansets?
✅ First-time approval in 95% of U.S. jurisdictions
⏱️ Turnaround in just 24–48 hours
📍 Compliant in all 50 states
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