Installing solar systems in Oregon can be done by individual homeowners (see below for details) and by licensed installation companies using licensed installers.

If you have any questions regarding legal installations contact the Building Codes Division (BCD) at: www.oregonbcd.org

Oregon License Issues

Solar systems installed in the state of Oregon require proper permits and systems installed by contractors require properly licensed businesses and installers. Consumers should verify the licenses of the people doing work on their homes to protect themselves and their investment. You should always ask for references in addition to proper licenses.

A person is not required to obtain a license to make an electrical installation on residential or farm property that is owned by the person or a member of the person's immediate family if the property is not intended for sale, exchange, lease or rent. You are still required to pull a proper permit. Contact the BCD if you have questions regarding homeowner installations.

You can check licenses very easily at links below.

For a more comprehensive guide on how to become a legal solar installer in the state of Oregon, please refer to the Solar Installations in Oregon white paper.

All Solar Systems

Solar Electric Systems

1. All businesses installing electric systems must have an electrical contractor license (in addition to the CCB license above). There are 2 legally allowed contractor electrical licenses for solar electric installations: General Electrical Contractor (C) and  Limited Renewable Energy Contractor (CLR). You can verify these licenses at: http://www.oregonbcd.org/licensesearch.html

2. All electrical contractors installing solar electric systems must use licensed electricians. There are 3 licenses legally allowed to install solar electric systems: General Journeyman (J), a Limited Renewable Energy Technician (LRT), and a Limited Residential Electrician (LR). You can verify these licenses at: http://www.oregonbcd.org/licensesearch.html

Solar Hot Water Systems

1. All businesses installing solar hot water systems must have a Plumbing Business registration (in addition to the CCB license above). You can verify this 'PB' number at: http://www.oregonbcd.org/licensesearch.html

2. All contractors installing solar hot water systems must use licensed plumbers. There are 2 licenses legally allowed to install solar hot water systems: general journeyman plumber and a Solar Heating and Cooling Specialty Plumber (SOL). You can verify these licenses at: http://www.oregonbcd.org/licensesearch.html