CA AB2188

Requires cities and counties to adopt expedited, streamlined permitting processes for small residential rooftop solar systems by September 30, 2015, including published checklists and electronic application options.

Reduces the threshold for "significant" cost increases on solar systems from 20% to 10% (capped at $1,000) for water heating systems and from $2,000 to $1,000 for photovoltaic systems.

Shortens the approval timeline for solar permit applications from 60 days to 45 days and deems applications approved if not denied in writing within 45 days.

Prohibits cities, counties, and homeowner associations from conditioning solar system approval on association approval or using aesthetic design review to block installations.

Requires solar water heating systems to be certified by accredited listing agencies rather than specific certification corporations and limits inspections to one consolidated inspection for eligible systems.