Are Solar Panels Generally Permitted In Housing Covenants

Reasonable limitations of hoas or accs.

Are solar panels generally permitted in housing covenants.

38 30 168 addresses the authority of hoas to regulate the installation and use of solar energy devices which are defined as. The main concern of hoa boards are that solar panels may drastically lower home values especially in cases where only a few homes within a community have panels installed. Most relevant to cc rs the code states that p rivate restrictions on solar energy systems such as homeowner s association covenants or restrictions shall not be permitted 28 to view the provision see laramie wy code of ordinances 15 14 030 a 1 b 2017. In states with solar easements property owners can negotiate with their neighbors to protect their right to sunlight and prevent obstructions such as trees or structures on a neighbor s lawn that cast shade on their panels.

Under house bill 2008 1270 hoas that are subject to ccioa cannot preclude the use of solar panels. Two dozen states including maryland have solar access rights laws that limit homeowner associations from banning solar panels. A solar collector or other device or a structural design feature of a structure which provides for the collection of sunlight and which comprises part of a system for the conversion of the sun s radiant energy into thermal chemical mechanical or electrical energy solar panels clearly fall within this definition. First they ll need to gain permission from their condominium board of directors or homeowners association hoa by confirming that solar will not damage their building s roof and if it does it is covered under a warranty and will increase the property s value.

Hoas can utilize reasonable architectural controls for the installation of solar panels. While solar access laws protect your right to install solar on your roof solar easements provide a legal avenue for homeowners to protect their home s access to sunshine.