Across the U.S., about 370,000 homeowners associations (HOAs) oversee 40 million homes. With so many communities under HOA regulations, many homeowners interested in solar may wonder: Do I need HOA approval for solar panels?
In some cases, excited solar shoppers find their installation plans stalled by HOA solar panel guidelines. Many HOAs aim to maintain a uniform neighborhood appearance, and solar panels don’t always fit their vision. Unfortunately, this can discourage homeowners from switching to solar and slow industry growth.
Understanding HOA solar panel restrictions—and how to work with them—is crucial for solar companies. By navigating HOA solar guidelines effectively, you can help more homeowners go solar, boost sales, and expand renewable energy adoption. Let’s dive into the key considerations.
With over ten years of experience, GreenLancer is an expert in solar permitting and engineering work. Our team can assist you in navigating complex solar permit, ensuring smooth and efficient project approvals with solar plan sets, engineering reviews, and engineering stamps.
Can HOAs Enforce Solar Panel Restrictions?
Homeowners associations aim to maintain property values and a cohesive neighborhood aesthetic. To do this, they establish covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) that dictate how residents can modify their homes—including solar installations.
In the past, many HOA solar panel guidelines made it difficult for homeowners to go solar. However, solar access laws in several states now limit HOA solar panel restrictions, protecting homeowners' rights to install solar. Still, some HOAs have specific solar panel guidelines that residents must follow. Understanding these rules is key to ensuring a smooth installation process.
Solar Access Laws & HOA Solar Panel Guidelines
HOA restrictions on solar panels can’t outright ban solar installations in many states, thanks to solar access laws. However, these laws vary, and HOA solar panel guidelines can still impact the design, placement, and aesthetics of solar systems. Many states allow HOAs to enforce “reasonable” rules regarding solar equipment size, visibility, and location.
For example, HOA guidelines for solar panels may require setback distances, restrict panel types for aesthetic reasons, or prevent installations from extending above the roofline. Some HOA solar panel restrictions mandate that panels be mounted flush to the roof or that conduit be hidden from street view.
States With Laws Impacting HOA Guidelines for Solar Panels
As a solar installer, it’s essential to understand the HOA solar panel guidelines in the states where you operate. States with solar access laws limiting HOA solar panel restrictions include:
Arizona | California | Colorado |
Connecticut | Delaware | Florida |
Hawaii | Idaho | Illinois |
Indiana | Louisiana | Maine |
Maryland | Massachusetts | Michigan |
Missouri | Nevada | New Jersey |
New York | Ohio | Oregon |
Texas | Utah | Vermont |
Virginia | Washington |
Solar Easements & HOA Guidelines for Solar Panels
Shading is a major obstacle to solar energy production, which is why solar easements exist—they give homeowners the right to negotiate for unobstructed sunlight on their property. These agreements can be influenced by HOA guidelines for solar panels, depending on the neighborhood’s rules. Once in place, a solar easement is legally tied to the property, ensuring future owners also benefit from the agreement.
For example, if a neighbor’s trees cast shade on a solar array, a solar easement could require them to be trimmed or removed once they reach a certain height. While this can help protect solar production, easements are voluntary—even in states that allow them—so the neighbor must agree. Often, compensation is offered in exchange for signing the agreement.
Currently, 30 states, including California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Oregon, and Washington, have laws permitting solar easements. However, these agreements are not exclusive to properties governed by HOA solar panel restrictions—any property owner can negotiate one.
HOA Restrictive Covenants & Solar Panels
HOA restrictive covenants outline what homeowners can and cannot do with their property. These agreements often cover landscaping, rentals, holiday decorations, vehicles, pets, noise, storage, and exterior modifications—including solar energy systems. HOA solar panel restrictions may dictate placement, visibility, or even prohibit installations altogether in some cases.
For example, a restrictive covenant may require homeowners to maintain their lawn, limit the number of vehicles parked outside, or regulate backyard structures. While these rules are intended to maintain neighborhood aesthetics and property values, they can sometimes make it harder for homeowners to go solar.
Failure to follow HOA guidelines for solar panels or other CC&Rs can lead to fines or even a property lien. To understand how HOA rules may impact a solar installation, homeowners should obtain a copy of their covenants, conditions, and restrictions to check for any HOA solar panel guidelines before moving forward with a project.
The California Solar Rights Act
The California Solar Rights Act, established in 1978, prevents HOA restrictions on solar panels by prohibiting HOAs from outright banning solar panel installations. While HOA solar panel guidelines can still apply, they must not increase costs by more than $1,000 or reduce system efficiency by over 10%.
This law applies not only to HOAs but also to local governments, ensuring that HOA solar panel restrictions or municipal rules do not hinder solar energy systems. It protects homeowners' rights to install solar panels while balancing aesthetic concerns and functionality.
Common HOA Solar Panel Guidelines
HOA restrictions on solar panels can vary by association, but here are some of the most common HOA solar panel guidelines that homeowners may encounter:
Prior Solar Approval Requirement: Many HOAs require homeowners to obtain approval before installing solar panels. This often involves submitting solar plan sets, system specifications, and other documentation to ensure compliance with HOA solar panel restrictions.
HOA Solar Panel Placement Restrictions: HOAs may impose rules on where solar panels can be installed, such as limiting installations to specific areas of the roof or yard.
Design and Aesthetic Considerations: To maintain community consistency, HOA guidelines for solar panels may dictate the design, color, and appearance of solar panels to ensure they align with the neighborhood's architecture and overall aesthetic.
Size and Quantity Limitations: HOAs might set limitations on the number and size of solar panels a homeowner can install. This could include restrictions on the total square footage or the system's capacity.
Safety and Maintenance Requirements: HOAs may require homeowners to meet specific safety and maintenance standards, such as regular inspections, compliance with local building codes, and proper installation techniques.
Landscaping Considerations: Some HOA solar panel guidelines may address landscaping requirements around solar panels, such as requiring screening or vegetation to minimize visibility. However, this can lead to shading issues that reduce system performance.
Roofing Restrictions: Certain HOAs may have rules regarding the types of roofing materials used for solar panel installations. These restrictions aim to ensure compatibility with existing roof structures and minimize damage risks during installation.
Reasons HOAs Restrict Solar Panels
HOA restrictions on solar panels are often motivated by a few key factors:
County Or Neighborhood Laws
Local governments regulate land use and development through documents like zoning laws, which can impact solar panel installations. In some cases, these laws don’t specifically address solar energy systems, leaving room for interpretation and potential restrictions.
In neighborhoods with historic buildings or designated historic districts, local laws may require preserving the visual character of the area. This can limit where solar panels can be installed. For example, HOA solar panel guidelines may prohibit panels from being visible from the street, while allowing them to be installed in less visible areas, such as the back of the property.
Aesthetics
One of the primary reasons for HOA solar panel restrictions is the desire to maintain a consistent aesthetic within the community. HOAs may be concerned about how solar panels affect the neighborhood's appearance or property values. Often, CC&Rs (covenants, conditions, and restrictions) include clauses that limit changes to the exterior appearance of homes, and solar panels are sometimes viewed as disruptive to the uniformity the HOA is trying to preserve.
Alternatives To Home Solar Systems
If an HOA doesn’t allow a solar system in a neighborhood, it might be possible for this customer to join a community solar farm. With this setup, the solar systems are not located on members’ properties.
Another alternative is a ground-mounted solar system. This means the solar panels are mounted in the yard or perhaps as a carport or trellis. Unfortunately, this often has a higher cost because it requires additional labor and mounting hardware.
Getting HOA Approval For Solar Panels
Depending on the CC&Rs, homeowners may need to submit paperwork to the HOA before installing a solar system. Some solar installation companies assist by handling the paperwork, including submitting proposals and system images. Taking charge of this process can help increase sales since some homeowners may be hesitant to approach HOAs.
To ensure a smooth process, find out early if the HOA solar panel guidelines include placement restrictions. If there are solar access laws in their state, educate the HOA about them.
Establishing a positive relationship with the HOA can help. Show that you're open to feedback and educate them on the benefits of solar energy, like increased property values.
Flexibility is key when working with an HOA. For example, all-black panels may be more likely to be approved than those with silver frames. Installing a front skirt can help conceal hardware, ensuring a tidy appearance. Listen to concerns and assess if modifications are feasible.
FAQs on HOA Restrictions on Solar Panels
Read on to learn about installing solar systems in planned communities.
Do HOAs allow solar panels?
Homeowners' associations have varying rules regarding the installation of solar panels. Some HOAs allow solar panels but may restrict their placement, design, and installation. These restrictions could include requirements such as having the panels placed on the back of a home's roof to ensure they are not visible from the street. Homeowners in planned communities should familiarize themselves with their HOA's guidelines and possibly seek approval before installing solar panels on their units.
Do I need HOA approval for solar panels?
Whether your client needs approval from their HOA for solar panels depends on the rules and regulations of the specific HOA. Some HOAs require approval for any exterior modifications, including solar panel installations, while others may not have strict regulations regarding solar panels. It's essential to review the HOA's guidelines and potentially seek approval before proceeding with the solar installation to avoid any conflicts or penalties.
Are there HOA guidelines for solar panels?
HOA guidelines for solar panels can vary significantly depending on the specific HOA's rules and regulations. Some HOAs may have detailed guidelines outlining acceptable types, sizes, colors, and placements of solar panels. These guidelines may also cover aspects such as aesthetics, safety, and compliance with local building codes.
What if my HOA violates a solar access law?
If your state has a solar access law and your HOA is violating it, homeowners can challenge the non-compliant policies through legal channels. The legislation supports homeowners' rights to install solar panels, and pursuing legal recourse can ensure the HOA complies with the law. This process may involve mediation or court action to uphold the homeowners' rights and ensure the HOA adheres to state regulations.
Help Clients Get HOA Approval For Solar Panels
With HOA restrictions on solar panels affecting 40 million homes, it's crucial to navigate HOA solar panel guidelines to grow your business. To move solar projects forward with HOAs, you'll need to know the local laws, submit necessary paperwork, and be flexible with the solar system design. Even in areas with solar access laws, homeowners may still need to adjust to HOA solar panel restrictions to get approval.
A common question homeowners may ask is, "Do I need HOA approval for solar panels?" The answer is often yes, especially if HOA solar panel restrictions exist in their neighborhood.
If you complete work successfully and build a good reputation in a neighborhood, it can lead to valuable referrals. Establishing a positive relationship with the HOA board will also make it easier to get approval for future solar projects.
GreenLancer is dedicated to accelerating solar energy deployment by helping remove roadblocks for solar installers. Our permit-ready solar plan sets and engineering services help contractors scale their operations with on-demand solar energy solutions. Complete the form below to learn more about how to get started using our solar design, permitting, and engineering services.