Do I need a permit for solar panels in Gilbert?

No — solar PV systems installed by an Arizona licensed contractor are exempt from permit per Gilbert's local amendment to IBC §105.2 (Building item 16). The same exemption applies to solar water heating system replacements. If the installer does not hold an AZ ROC license, a permit is required and fees are calculated from the standard valuation-based Building Permit Fee table.

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System — Permit Exemption in Gilbert, Arizona

Solar photovoltaic systems installed by an Arizona licensed contractor are EXEMPT from permit in the Town of Gilbert per local amendment IBC §105.2 Building item 16 (cross-referenced in IBC Appendix K §K103.2 Exception 7 for electrical). This exemption is explicitly stated in the Town of Gilbert Technical Codes 2020 Edition. If a permit IS required (e.g., for work performed without a licensed contractor or for battery storage systems that may require separate review), the permit fee is calculated from the standard valuation-based Building Permit Fee table; verify with Development Services.

Verified 2026-06-29 · Source

When you need this permit

If installed by an Arizona licensed contractor: NO PERMIT REQUIRED per IBC §105.2 Building item 16 as locally amended
Installer must hold a current Arizona ROC license
All electrical work must comply with 2017 NEC as amended by Town of Gilbert Code Chapter 10-32
If a battery storage system is included, verify with Development Services whether separate review is required

Required documents

Opt
Solar Permit Application (if permit required)
Submitted through OneStopShop at onestopshop.gilbertaz.gov if a permit is required

Fee schedule

Fee type	Amount	Notes
Solar Permit Fee (when a permit is required)	Calculated from the standard valuation-based Building Permit Fee table; $50.00 minimum for work valued $1.00–$1,100.00	Source: Town of Gilbert Development Services Fee Schedules (doc 5883), Building Permit and Plan Review Fees Table, effective July 1, 2025, Resolution 4563. The current adopted fee schedule (doc 5883) does not list a separate solar flat fee — solar permits when required are assessed under the standard valuation-based table. Contact Development Services at (480) 503-6700 to confirm fee for a specific solar project.

Review timeline

~1–3 business days

Typical estimate — confirm current times with the Gilbert building department

Inspection process

1
Electrical Inspection (if permit required)
Inspection of solar PV electrical connections if a permit is issued

Tips

Solar PV systems installed by an Arizona licensed contractor are permit-EXEMPT in Gilbert per IBC §105.2 item 16. This is a significant local departure from the base IBC.
The exemption also covers like-for-like replacements of solar water heating systems by AZ licensed contractors.
Verify with Development Services at (480) 503-6700 if your system includes battery storage, as this may require separate review.
Apply for any required permits through OneStopShop at onestopshop.gilbertaz.gov.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for solar panels in Gilbert?: No — solar PV systems installed by an Arizona licensed contractor are exempt from permit per Gilbert's local amendment to IBC §105.2 (Building item 16). The same exemption applies to solar water heating system replacements. If the installer does not hold an AZ ROC license, a permit is required and fees are calculated from the standard valuation-based Building Permit Fee table.

Sources & verification

Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-06-29.

Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Gilbert building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.

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