This bill mandates that local governments in Minnesota with populations exceeding 5,000 residents establish residential instant solar permitting platforms to streamline the permitting process for residential photovoltaic systems. The platforms must automate plan reviews, issue code-compliant approvals, and allow for online payments, thereby eliminating the need for manual reviews for applications that meet the criteria. The bill specifies that these platforms should be capable of processing at least 75% of residential photovoltaic permit applications for existing constructions. Additionally, it requires local governments to submit compliance reports and annual reports to the state department, detailing their use of the permitting platform and the number of permits issued.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the inspection process for projects permitted through these platforms, allowing for remote inspections and limiting the number of required inspections to one unless the first fails. It also includes a self-certification requirement for local governments seeking funding from the department, with non-compliance potentially affecting their eligibility for funding opportunities. An exemption is provided for local governments that do not require permits for residential photovoltaic systems. The provisions of this bill will take effect on July 1, 2026.