Instructions for Installing a Solar System in Burbank
The rules and guidelines for installing solar varies by city. The following steps will provide you with a complete guideline to installing a solar system at a home or business in Burbank.
Step 1: Review City of Burbank Solar Requirements
The City of Burbank may have requirements that differ from neighboring electric utilities. Some common misconceptions include:
1. Performance meter requirements. Burbank requires performance meters for properties with solar, with exceptions for certain solar systems with battery storage.
2. Meter collars. Burbank does not allow meter collars.
3. Labeling requirements for multi-family buildings. Please refer to Drawing S-825A regarding labeling requirements for Burbank.
Step 2: Get Confirmation of Services Document
Please download the instructions and details for receiving the Confirmation of Electric Service document. You'll need to submit this document and a full set of plans to the Burbank Building & Safety Division.
Step 3: Electrical Interconnection & Metering Agreement
Download and complete an Interconnection and Metering Agreement. Email the completed documents to BWP’s Service Planning Team at ERES@burbankca.gov for residential projects or ECOM@burbankca.gov for commercial projects. BWP staff will reply with a meter spot and confirmation number to use when applying for a permit.
Step 4: Apply for a Permit
A building permit is required for the installation of any solar system in Burbank. Permits are handled through the City of Burbank Building & Safety Division.
Residential PV Systems
Once you have obtained your BWP meter spot and confirmation number from Step 2, visit the Building & Safety Division’s Instant Residential Solar Permits web page to begin your instant solar permit application. You should have your meter spot available to upload and reference in your application. Please send an email to ERES@burbankca.gov if you experience any technical issues with your BWP confirmation number.
Commercial PV Systems
Require a Tier 2 permit application with plan check: Once you have obtained a BWP meter spot, please contact the Building and Safety Division at eplancheck@burbankca.gov for access to the online review portal named ProjectDox. For additional information about Tier 2 permits and ProjectDox, visit the Building Permits page.
Step 5: Install the Solar System!
After receiving an approved permit, you can install the solar system. Pay close attention to labeling requirements for solar systems to avoid additional inspection costs and delays. For labeling questions, contact BWP’s Electric Test Shop at (818) 238-3585 Mondays through Fridays between 7 am and 4 pm.
Step 6: Schedule Inspections & Finalize Permit
After the solar system is installed, you will need to schedule an inspection at least one day in advance. Set up or login to the Burbank Online Permits portal and schedule an inspection. For questions, contact the Building & Safety Division at building@burbankca.gov or (818) 238-5220.
Step 7: BWP Installs the Performance Meter
The Building & Safety Division will notify BWP once a final permit is issued. BWP will schedule an onsite visit to install the performance meter and perform various safety tests on the solar system.
Step 8: The Solar System is Connected!
After installing the performance meter and connecting the solar system to the grid, BWP will leave a door hanger on the home or business owner’s door letting them know that their solar system is up and running.
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