The purpose of this chapter is to establish an expedited, streamlined solar permitting process that complies with the solar rights act and AB 2188 (chapter 521, statute 2014) to achieve timely and cost effective installations of small residential rooftop solar energy systems. The provisions of this chapter encourage the use of solar systems by removing unreasonable barriers, minimizing costs to property owners and the city, and expanding the ability of property owners to install solar energy systems. The provisions of this chapter further allow the city to achieve these goals while protecting the public health, safety and welfare by providing a means of enabling the installation of solar systems in such a manner that they are compatible with the architectural characteristics of the city. Solar systems have been proven to be one of the most efficient means of conserving nonrenewable energy resources, and this chapter is not to be construed as discouraging the installation of any type of solar system. (Ord. 2813, 2015)