Politics & Government

Permit Fees for Energy Efficiency Projects in Encinitas Waived, Reduced

The city just launched a pilot program, which makes now a very good time to go green.

If you’ve been dabbling with the idea of making your home more green, now is a good time to do it.

In an effort to promote sustainability, the city of Encinitas just rolled out a one-year pilot program that waives or reduces permit fees for energy-efficient projects, including:

  • Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems
  • Solar water heating systems
  • Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE)
  • Clean Natural Gas (CNG) home refueling systems

All permitting fees for basic installations of these systems will be waived, according to a news release from the city. For installations that require more complex permitting and inspection—such as those in fire hazard areas—a fee reduction equivalent to the basic permitting fee amount will be provided.

Find out what's happening in Encinitaswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

A permit for a solar panel or solar water heater typically costs about $320 and a permit for an electric vehicle charging station costs about $275, according to a city staff report that was presented in May to Encinitas City Council,

After the one-year trial, city staff will report back to the city council so it can decide whether to extend, eliminate or change the program.

Find out what's happening in Encinitaswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The program runs Aug. 1, 2012 through July 31, 2012. The effort is possible thanks to a partnership with EsGil Corporation, a local company that handles permitting and inspection under a contract with the city.

For more information, please contact the City of Encinitas Planning and Building Department at (760) 633-2710.


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