HOA Restrictions & Guidelines for Solar Panels
- Sarah Lozanova
- Jul 31
- 8 min read
Across the U.S., about 370,000 homeowners' associations (HOAs) oversee 40 million homes. Many of these communities have rules that affect exterior home changes. That’s why homeowners often ask: Do I need HOA approval for solar panels?
In some cases, solar installation plans are delayed or denied because of strict HOA solar panel guidelines. These rules are meant to maintain a consistent neighborhood appearance, but they can discourage solar adoption. HOA restrictions on solar panels may limit system placement, design, or visibility, creating extra hurdles for homeowners.
For solar contractors, it's important to understand HOA solar panel restrictions and how to work within them. By helping homeowners navigate HOA guidelines for solar panels, you can keep projects on track and support the growth of clean energy.
GreenLancer helps contractors get solar projects approved faster with permit-ready solar plan sets, engineering reviews, and PE stamps. We also provide solar repair services for homeowners, including those with orphaned or underperforming systems.
Table of Contents
Can HOAs Enforce HOA Restrictions on Solar Panels?
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.
How Solar Access Laws Limit HOA Solar Panel Restrictions
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 That Limit HOA Restrictions on 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
District of Columbia
Florida
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
Ohio
Oregon
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
Solar Easements & How They Interact with HOA Solar Panel Guidelines
Shading is one of the most common issues that reduce solar system performance. That’s where solar easements come in. A solar easement is a legal agreement that gives homeowners the right to access unobstructed sunlight by securing sunlight exposure across property lines. This can be especially useful when working around HOA solar panel guidelines, which may limit panel placement options.
For example, if a neighboring tree shades a rooftop array, a solar easement could require the tree to be trimmed or removed once it reaches a certain height. These agreements are legally binding and stay with the property when it is sold. However, they are voluntary—even in states that permit them—so the neighbor must agree to the terms, often with compensation.
As of 2025, at least 30 states have laws that allow property owners to create solar easements, including California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Oregon, and Washington. These agreements are not limited to properties under HOA solar panel restrictions, but they can be especially valuable in HOA-governed communities where panel placement is already limited.
Understanding how solar easements interact with HOA guidelines for solar panels can help homeowners protect system performance and avoid future conflicts over shading.
HOA Restrictive Covenants & Their Impact on Solar Panel Installations
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.
California Solar Rights Act: Limiting HOA Solar Panel Restrictions
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 Guidelines for Solar Panels
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.
Why HOA Restrictions on Solar Panels Exist
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 When HOA Guidelines Restrict Solar Panels
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.
How to Get 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?
Yes, many homeowners’ associations allow solar panels—but often with conditions. HOA restrictions on solar panels can include placement limitations, aesthetic requirements, and installation guidelines. For example, some HOA solar panel guidelines require panels to be installed only on the back side of the roof or not be visible from the street. These restrictions are meant to preserve the visual uniformity of the community.
Before starting a project, homeowners should review their community’s HOA guidelines for solar panels and seek written approval if required.
Do I need HOA approval for solar panels?
In most cases, yes. Many HOAs require formal approval before any exterior modifications, including solar energy systems. If HOA solar panel restrictions exist in the community, your client may need to submit design plans, system specifications, or visual mockups for approval.
Some HOAs have flexible processes, while others are more stringent. Failing to follow HOA solar panel guidelines can result in fines or delays, so it's best to verify the rules early in the process.
Are there HOA guidelines for solar panels?
Absolutely. HOA guidelines for solar panels often include rules about panel placement, color, mounting hardware, conduit visibility, and system size. These rules are typically included in the HOA’s covenants, conditions, and restrictions and aim to balance individual homeowner rights with community aesthetics and safety standards.
Some associations also require panels to be installed flush with the roof or painted to match the roof material.
What if my HOA violates a solar access law?
If a homeowner lives in a state with solar access laws and their HOA is enforcing overly strict or illegal restrictions, they may have legal options. These laws limit HOA restrictions on solar panels by protecting the right to install a solar energy system.
If an HOA is in violation, homeowners can challenge the policy through mediation, administrative complaints, or court action. It's important to document all communications and consult legal resources or local solar advocacy groups when necessary.
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.
Whether you're a solar contractor looking for fast, code-compliant permit plan sets or a homeowner in need of expert solar repairs or upgrades, GreenLancer has you covered. Our U.S.-based team and nationwide network of licensed professionals deliver reliable support for every stage of your solar projects.
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