Santa Rosa, CA

• Created a streamlined process to approve certain solar permit applications over the counter
• Provided an online process for scheduling and responding to inspection requests
• Installed solar PV on local facilities
• Provided Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing for eligible properties

• Created an online permitting checklist, increasing transparency for community members and solar installers
• Reviewed local zoning codes and identified restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit solar PV development
• Allowed solar by-right accessory use in all zones (so solar installations don’t require special permits or hearings)
• Cross-trained both inspection and permitting staff on solar PV
• Provided a streamlined permitting pathway for small PV systems

In 2025, Santa Rosa earned their Charging Smart Gold designation. Santa Rosa is the first Charging Smart designee in California, and the first Gold designee on the west coast! This award was given in recognition of their work to remove barriers to EV charging infrastructure. Their actions included clarifying permitting processes for charging stations, training municipal staff in best practices, and more.