SLO COUNTY BUILDING COMPLAINT ABOUT DIAGRAMS |
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| This is a subsection of a web site cataloging the many problems we have had obtaining building permits in the County of San Luis Obispo. Here is the main page. This page was last updated 8/5/2025. |
| Our specialty is design and installation of off-grid solar power systems. I started installing solar electric in 1984 when grid-tied technology was not available. Off-grid systems are more complicated than modern grid-tied only systems. We have excelled in the field by virtue of studying the equipment codes and industry resources. We have installed over 60 off-grid systems. Here is a link to our portfolio page. |
| I personally prepare all plan sets for submission for permitting. I understand the necessity of building department plan checkers reviewing our installation plans. Occasionally I will leave off a detail and I am happy to fill in requested information. |
| Matt Varvel has been reviewing our plans for some years now and it is obvious he is not qualified to do so. This would not be a problem if Varvel recognized this fact. Indeed I would be happy to coach him. However when Varvel does not understand what we are proposing rather than asking for clarification he demands we make changes to a system that is correct. Below are but a few examples. |
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Your single line is not drawn per industry standards. |
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There are no published requirements for any given standard. My drawings are clear, concise, complete and arguably superior to any manufacturer’s drawings. If there is something specific missing from my plan set, point it out. Can we drop this now? |
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6 Remove the note that all breakers are 50 amp UNO. |
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This would be a bad idea and needlessly clutter the drawing. I suggest the plan reviewer reconsider. |
| Diagram from the manufacturer |
My diagram My diagram uses line-value and colors to provide clarity. My power flow is from left to right or indicated by arrowheads. Most power systems do not have two way power flow so the uninitiated might not realize the necessity of arrow indicators. I fit a lot cleanly on one sheet. To do this I need to use "unless noted otherwise" notation and this is common in the industry. I include conduit fill. My drawings are demonstrably better than most industry drawings. During a recent counter session Jerry Trotter, Building Division Supervisor, complemented me on my drawing skills. There is no basis for Varvel's criticism. |