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Overview

  • Screening shall be required for any rooftop or ground-mounted mechanical equipment. Refer to the Zoning Guidance below
  • After you have completed and gathered all of the required documents, you will need to submit your permit application and plans electronically through the IrvineReady! Online Permit Submittal portal

Building Code Guidance

Zoning Guidance

  • Storage areas and equipment shall not be located in any required setback area or side yard except for electrical or telephone equipment installed by the utilities.

Overview

  • The City of Irvine offers two rooftop solar system options:

    • Same-Day Permits: PermitsDIRECT! powered by Symbium is a web-based platform that makes it possible to get permits for residential solar and battery storage systems the same day. Permits can be paid online and are issued automatically, without manual review or an in-person visit. To qualify for same-day permits, the application must be:

Overview

  • There are two types of grading permits:  preliminary and precise.
  • A preliminary grading permit is required for any of the following and where no construction is proposed on or above the ground surface: 
    • Alteration of natural drainage patterns,
    • Earthwork exceeding 50 cubic yards,
    • Removal of pavement exceeding 3,000 square feet,
    • Removal of underground storage tanks,
    • Stockpiles.

Overview

  • We recommend confirming the zoning information for the property before proceeding with your design plans. Refer to the Zoning Guidance below
  • After you have completed and gathered all of the required documents, you will need to submit your permit application and plans electronically through the IrvineReady! Online Permit Submittal portal

Building Guidance

The City of Irvine has adopted a Sign Ordinance, which may be found in Division 7 of the Zoning Ordinance. Certain types of signs require a permit, while other types of signs are prohibited. Some signs, like digital messaging signs, require review and approval from the Zoning Administrator, Planning Commission, and/or City Council.

Overview

  • For information regarding storage battery installations, please review article 480 of the California Electrical Code

  • Review the Site Plan/Floor Plan Guidance (below) while preparing your documents and drawings

  • Your Homeowners Association may have its own approval process. Review your HOA policies and procedures before proceeding with your design plans

  • Structural calculations may be required depending on the battery installation location

Overview

  • There are height limits for retaining walls, depending on where they are constructed (refer to the Zoning Guidance below)
  • Certain construction materials/finishes are prohibited under the Irvine Zoning Ordinance (refer to the Zoning Guidance below)
  • Structural plans and calculations are required for retaining walls holding back a slope or surcharge from an existing or proposed structure
  • Your Homeowners Association may have its own approval process. Review your HOA policies and procedures before proceeding with your design plans

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