A PE stamp means a licensed Professional Engineer has reviewed a document and taken responsibility for it. Whether a solar project needs one depends on the location, the type of system and sometimes the roof itself.

Structural stamps

A structural review confirms that the roof or ground structure can carry the added load of the array, including wind and snow. Jurisdictions often ask for one when the roof framing is unusual or unknown, when the array is large, or when the design does not follow a prescriptive method.

Electrical stamps

An electrical stamp covers the single-line diagram and calculations. It is more common on commercial systems, larger residential systems, battery storage and interconnections that need extra review.

How to find out

• Check the AHJ's solar permit checklist or ask the permit desk directly
• Ask whether the requirement differs by system size
• Plan for the stamp early so it does not delay the submission

Working with a team that already has structural and electrical engineers in most states means the stamp can be delivered together with the design.