How Long Does It Take to Get a Long Island Solar Permit?
The timeline to get a solar permit on Long Island varies because individual towns and villages manage their own approvals. Most installations have a permitting process lasting between 2 and 4 weeks after the initial submission.
Choosing an experienced Long Island solar installer can streamline the process and eliminate delays.
What Can Cause Suffolk or Nassau County Solar Permit Delays?
There are two potential reasons for solar installation permit delays on Long Island:
- A high backlog at the local Building Department (rare, but periods of high demand can extend the permitting process to about 6 weeks).
- Incorrect or incomplete applications (the most common cause of delays).
Power Solutions is a trusted Long Island solar contractor. We have connected thousands of businesses and families to solar and have in-depth experience with the permitting process across all local municipalities. We include all necessary documentation to eliminate delays when obtaining permits.
Most importantly, we handle all the paperwork after your initial application, so you won’t be stuck going back and forth with local authorities.
Is There a Unified Solar Permitting Process on Long Island?
Long Island did have a Unified Solar Permitting Initiative (LIUSPI), which was most active in the early 2010s. While this initiative isn’t relevant today, it has had long-lasting effects on municipalities. Its main goal was to streamline the hugely inconsistent permitting rules across different areas of Nassau and Suffolk Counties, and it was successful in doing so.
Today, the requirements are mostly unified throughout Long Island, making it faster and easier to obtain solar permits.
Are There Fire Codes for Solar Panels?
Yes, every new solar panel installation on Long Island must comply with the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code.
- Panels must be at least 36 inches away from the peak/roof ridge. This may be reduced to 18 inches if the solar panel array covers less than 33% of the total roof area.
- Solar panels can’t cover the entire roof. There needs to be a continuous pathway measuring 36 inches wide from the edge of the roof to the ridge.
These rules are designed so that firefighters have safe and immediate access to the roof in an emergency.
Failing to adhere to these rules will result in a failed permit application. Choosing an experienced local solar contractor will ensure that your system is designed in compliance with all regulations, preventing delays.
Is a Permit the Same as PSEG Interconnection Approval?
The solar installation permitting process is separate from the PSEG interconnection approval.
- Your solar permit allows Power Solutions to move forward with the installation. It is an essential step in which plans are reviewed for compliance with local regulations.
- The PSEG Interconnection Approval is a separate process after your solar panel installation. PSEG will check your system to confirm it is safe and ready to connect to the electrical grid. It’s the final stage before your system is permitted to operate (PTO).
How to Ensure Your System is Compliant and Free of Connection Delays
The easiest way to get a fully-compliant solar installation on Long Island is to choose a trusted and licensed solar panel installer. Power Solutions is the best team for an efficient, compliant, and dependable solar installation. Your system will be overseen by a NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional, and our business is a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association. We’re a top-rated solar installer near you.
Insist on the best team to prevent permit delays and keep your solar installation on track. Start with a free consultation and estimate from Power Solutions today.
