Solar Energy in Bakersfield, CA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Bakersfield or are thinking about moving there, solar energy are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Bakersfield has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of solar energy, and some of them might surprise you.

HOA Restrictions

California's Solar Rights Act (Civil Code §714) severely limits HOA restrictions on solar energy systems. HOAs in Bakersfield cannot prohibit solar installations and may only impose reasonable restrictions that do not significantly increase cost or decrease efficiency. Any restriction that reduces system output by more than 10% is presumed unreasonable.

Key details: State Law: CA Civil Code §714 (Solar Rights Act). Efficiency Cap: Restrictions cannot reduce output by >10%. Cost Cap: Cannot increase cost by >$1,000. HOA Prohibition: Cannot ban solar installations. Remedy: Damages and attorney fees for violations.

HOAs that violate the Solar Rights Act may be liable for actual damages and reasonable attorney fees. Homeowners can challenge unreasonable solar restrictions in court. HOA fines for compliant solar installations are unenforceable under state law.

Panel Permits

Bakersfield requires building permits for solar panel installations but follows California's Solar Permitting Act (AB 2188/SB 1222) mandating streamlined permitting. The city must process residential rooftop solar permits within specified timeframes. California's Solar Rights Act prevents unreasonable restrictions on solar installations.

Key details: Permit Required: Building and electrical permits. Streamlined: AB 2188/SB 1222 mandate fast processing. New Construction: Solar required on new homes since 2020. State Protection: CA Solar Rights Act. Application: Online submission required by law.

Installing solar panels without permits violates the California Building Code. Unpermitted systems may need to be removed or brought into compliance. The city cannot impose unreasonable restrictions or excessive fees on solar installations under the Solar Rights Act. HOA violations are handled separately through CC&Rs.

The Bottom Line

Bakersfield's solar energy rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Bakersfield is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Bakersfield's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.