City of Spokane launches solar permit software [Video]

SPOKANE, Wash. – The City of Spokane announced a solar permit software program Tuesday which will standardize the residential permit application process for solar technology users.

According to the city, the new Solar Automated Permit Processing Plus program will make it far easier for Spokane residents to have their solar panel installations approved.

“SolarAPP+ allows for an instantaneous permit application review, reducing wait times for residential rooftop solar systems by at least two weeks,” the city said.

The city will waive the typical $25 processing fee for solar applications if residents use SolarAPP+, though manual applications will still be offered through the municipal Department of Building and Planning.

Solar systems have expanded rapidly throughout Spokane since 2019. The city says that it issued just 72 permits in 2019 compared to over 500 in 2022 and 2023.

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