A homeowner planning to install solar panels a few at a time received a warning about an often-overlooked part of the project. Local zoning and inspection requirements could mean budgeting for engineering plans.

Here's what to know

A homeowner's post on Reddit's r/SolarDIY community focused on a solar installation that could grow over time, where they discussed their research.

"My plan is to build a few panels at a time and slowly expand," they wrote.

With plans to leave the wiring to an electrician, the self-described moderately handy homeowner was considering two options. They were a DIY kit or ground mounts and racks they would build themselves.

A commenter cautioned that local zoning and inspection rules could require engineering plans. That could end up making construction of the mounts potentially the easier task than getting everything approved.

Residential solar can potentially lower electricity bills, and, depending on the property and agreement, $0-upfront solar leases may deliver savings of hundreds of dollars per month. For homeowners comparing routes beyond DIY, EasyHome offers a free explorer tool to estimate possible savings and find vetted local installers.

More background

The original poster laid out their setup goals in their post.

"Not looking to power the whole house up front, just looking to offset, initially," the original poster explained.

Other commenters warned them not to fall into the trap of buying a kit without a well-defined plan.

"For the love of god don't sink $$$ in some 'kit' that will lay around in the garage for years," they warned.

They similarly pushed the OP to get engineering plans and approvals, while emphasizing the importance of buying quality equipment for the setup.

What can be done?

Checking with local zoning and inspection officials about engineering plans could help the homeowner address the concerns raised in the discussion. Understanding those requirements could also help them decide what would be the better fit for their setup.

A couple of posters expressed satisfaction with modest "solar generators" that could power a fridge or air conditioning with the aid of some panels.  

If the OP wanted to do more than that, the poster who disparaged kits had some blunt advice.

"To get some sort of decent system, you'll need 10-12 panels at minimum or what's the point of going through the hassle. It will cost you about 7-10k complete," they advised.

Another commenter shared a lengthy breakdown of all the steps they had to take to pull off a setup for around $15,000.

The homeowner's staged approach also creates an opportunity to consider storage while exploring the overall setup. EasyHome offers battery-storage exploration options for homeowners weighing that addition.

Pairing solar panels with appropriately configured batteries can help manage electricity costs while providing backup power during outages.

Where can I learn more?

Other homeowners planning DIY solar projects have also asked about permits, structural plans, and installation costs. 

• A New York homeowner learned local permits determine whether DIY solar installations are allowed.

• A Santa Ana DIYer questioned whether ground-mount footing plans were needed for 16 panels.

• A California homeowner considered skipping a $3,000 contractor fee while weighing a friend's solar plan.

• A Connecticut homeowner weighed whether a two-story DIY solar installation would justify the effort.

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