Solar Panels

Permits required for small solar projects

Before installing solar panels on your home or business, check the information on this page so you know what to expect, and to ensure your work process and solar collection system comply with regulations.

Getting started

Planning your solar energy system

  • Consider what type of solar energy system you want:
    • Photovoltaic or PV (most common type; uses the sun's light to make electricity). Eligible for HAT Smart rebates.
    • Solar thermal (uses the sun's warmth to heat water)

Solar systems diagram

  • Work with a solar energy professional to ensure the best system for your needs. A professional will obtain all permits and will apply for available rebates on your behalf.
  • Make sure your house is as energy-efficient as possible before adding solar collectors.
  • If you are buying a new property, consider the building's solar-readiness. Look for adequate roof space, utility room space and a pipe chase to connect the roof and utility room.

Connecting to the City's electric grid

  • If certain requirements are met, you can connect your solar photovoltaic system (microgenerator) to the City Electric system.
  • When you do not generate enough electricity to meet your needs, you buy the shortage from City Electric. When you generate more electricity than you need, you receive a credit with the City.
  • The City will not purchase excess electric generation from you, and you will still be required to pay the "base" electric fees included with your utilities.

To learn more about electric microgeneration, visit:

Microgeneration

Rebates

The HAT Smart program provides rebates to Medicine Hat residential utility customers who install solar PV systems on their homes. The rebate amount is awarded based on the size of the installed system.

To learn more about the HAT Smart program, visit:

HAT Smart

What permits do I need?

Required:

  • Building permit
  • Electrical permit

May be required:

  • Plumbing permit (needed for solar thermal systems; not photovoltaic systems)
  • Development permit (not typically required for solar panels installed on an existing building)

 

All required permits are included when you apply. See How to apply below.

If you wish to interconnect your solar PV system to the City's Electric Distribution System, you must meet all conditions specified by the Electric Utility Department, including inspections.

How to apply

Online

Apply online

New to ePermit?
See user guide

 We can help you apply online. Contact us by email or phone (403) 529-8374.

Additional links:

Payment methods

Online:

  • Visa or Mastercard

In-person:

  • Debit
  • Cash
  • Cheque
  • Credit Card (Visa or MasterCard)

Mail:

  • Cheque

Fees and charges

How long will it take to approve permits?

  • Building permits: Typically within 15 business days, provided that an approved Development permit (if required) has been issued. The timeline of a Building permit application will increase if amendments or resubmissions are needed from the applicant.
  • Trade permits: Typically within 5 business days, provided the associated Building permit (if required) has been issued.
  • Microgeneration application: Timelines vary.

Inspections

Safety Codes Officers will do a final inspection for the building permit and electrical permit. Afterwards, the City Electric department will inspect the microgeneration system.

Book online

To book required inspections for construction work, visit:

Inspections

Risks when permits are not obtained

By not obtaining permits for work done on your home, you are leaving yourself vulnerable to potential future legal and financial issues when selling your property or making an insurance claim. There could also be consequences if you do not correct the situation, such as:

  • Enforcement action issued by a Safety Codes Officer.
  • A fine for building without a permit.
  • Having to undo work that has been completed.
  • Future legal and financial issues when selling your property or making an insurance claim.
  • Having to do more work than was originally planned and budgeted, to fix deficiencies.
  • Potential liability to you, the homeowner, in the event of an accident.

As a homeowner, you are responsible for paying any penalties, even if you hired a contractor who assured you that permits were not required.