London ON Solar Permits & Bylaw Guide

Utilities and Infrastructure Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of Ontario

In London, Ontario, homeowners who plan rooftop or ground-mounted solar installations must follow municipal building rules and provincial electrical requirements. This guide explains which permits are typically required, who enforces the rules, available incentives, and practical steps to apply and stay compliant.

Overview

Residential solar work commonly involves both building-code and electrical approvals: a building permit for structural or roof alterations and an electrical inspection/permit for the PV electrical connection. The City of London issues building permits and inspects construction work, while the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) enforces electrical safety rules for installations in Ontario.City building permits[1] ESA renewable energy guidance[2]

Start permit conversations before signing contractor contracts.

Permits & Approvals

Common permitting expectations:

  • Building permit for structural changes, roof penetrations, or changes to load paths.
  • Electrical permit and inspection via ESA for PV interconnection and electrical work.
  • Possible planning approvals if the property is in a heritage area or subject to site-plan control.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement roles and remedies:

  • Enforcer: City of London Building Services and By-law Enforcement for building and municipal bylaw matters; ESA enforces electrical compliance.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence treatment not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to stop work, orders to make repairs, and court prosecution powers are available; specific powers and procedures are described on enforcement pages.

Inspection, complaints, and appeals:

  • To report work or request an inspection, contact City of London Building Services and By-law Enforcement via the City's permit and complaints pages.City building permits[1]
  • Appeals and reviews: appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page.
Work without required permits can lead to stop-work orders and enforcement action.

Applications & Forms

Typical application details:

  • Building permit application: see the City of London building permit application page for required documents and submission instructions.Application details[1]
  • Electrical permit: ESA issues permits/inspections for electrical work; check ESA guidance for required forms and whether your installer must submit a notification.ESA guidance[2]
  • Fees and deadlines: specific fees and formal deadlines are not specified on the cited pages; consult the City's permit fee schedule and ESA for current charges.

Incentives & Utility Connections

Provincial or federal incentives may apply and your local utility will have interconnection rules and net-metering or export tariff processes. Confirm incentives and utility connection requirements with your electricity distributor and check provincial incentive portals for current programs.

Utility interconnection approval is separate from municipal permitting.

How-To

  1. Confirm project scope and determine if structural or electrical alterations are needed.
  2. Contact City of London Building Services to confirm building permit requirements and submit the building permit application if required.City building permits[1]
  3. Ensure electrical work is registered with ESA and that an electrical inspection/permit is obtained for the PV installation.ESA guidance[2]
  4. Schedule required inspections and maintain records of permits, inspections, and manufacturer documentation.
  5. Apply for incentives and arrange utility interconnection after passing inspections.

FAQ

Do I need a building permit for rooftop solar?
Often yes, if the installation involves roof penetrations, alteration of roof structure, or changes to load paths; confirm with City Building Services.
Do I need an electrical permit?
Yes, electrical work for PV systems must comply with provincial electrical rules and typically requires ESA notification and inspection.
What are the penalties for installing without permits?
Penalties and enforcement steps are defined by the City and ESA; specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited pages.

Key Takeaways

  • Check both building and electrical permit requirements early.
  • Keep permit documents and inspection records on file.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of London - Building permits & inspections
  2. [2] Electrical Safety Authority - Renewable energy guidance

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data