Utilities

This is a friendly reminder that ALL Homeowners must get a sign off from the City Inspector if you have a permit for your generator, solar or propane conversion.

All Permits need to get a sign off from the city inspector.

You may call for an appointment for the City Inspector at (310) 544-5279

Or here is the link for the inspection request: https://www.rpvca.gov/FormCenter/Community-Development-5/Inspection-ERequest-57

The City is aware that several homes in the landslide area have installed, without permits, alternative utilities such as generators, propane conversions, solar, and holding tanks in response to recent utility shutoffs. Improperly installed equipment may cause fire, electrocution, or other health and safety threats.

Residents who have already installed or plan to install alternative utilities MUST obtain a no-cost, expedited permit and follow-up inspection from the City’s Building and Safety Division.  This is critical to ensure the health and safety of all residents in your neighborhood.

For questions or to obtain a permit, please contact Building and Safety at 310-544-5280 or BuildingSafety@rpvca.gov.

It is early days of solar installation, but some folks have already completed solar installations. It would be helpful if folks shared their early experiences. My understanding is that most of the systems installed in at least the LA area have been designed to work with the Grid. Solar panels need power/electricity to supply energy to a home. Batteries are therefore essential to work with these systems, and even with a battery, if that battery drains completely the house can potentially need a “jump” to reenergize. My early experience is that even the solar companies installing these systems are not always clear on how to engineer these systems to work completely off grid.

Long story short BEWARE, and if you are working with a solar company that either has a handle on this or does not, please share.

One of your neighbors has used and recommended Eduardo Canela who does Residential & Commercial Electric work. License# 1059257 active and good through 10/31/25

Contact: 424-213-9497 eduardo@canelaelectricinc.com