City of Austin Solar Permit Guide
In the City of Austin, rooftop solar needs a city electrical permit plus Austin Energy sign-off. Because Austin Energy is your utility, the city and utility steps are tightly linked.
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Permits you’ll need
An Auxiliary Power Electrical Permit from the City of Austin, tied to an approved Distributed Generation Planning Application (DGPA) from Austin Energy. That one electrical permit covers solar, battery storage, and grid-tied generators.
How to submit
Apply through the Austin Build + Connect (AB+C) online portal. Attach the approved DGPA and your wiring/single-line diagram; the interconnection agreement and a meter photo help.
Fees & timeline
Residential solar permits typically run about $200–$400 and take roughly two to four weeks. Austin Energy must inspect every grid-tied system before you can switch it on.
Worth knowing
Because Austin Energy is both your utility and the inspecting authority, the permit and interconnection move together. Austin Energy doesn’t require separate DG approval for systems under 25 kW — most rooftops — though the city electrical permit still applies.
Outside city limits
In unincorporated Travis County (outside Austin city limits), you permit through Travis County Development Services instead.
Permit in hand? The next step is requesting grid interconnection from Austin Energy — see its rates, buyback, fees, and application links. Or go back to the full Texas solar guide.