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

Costa Mesa maintains 105 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with solar energy. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Costa Mesa falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Panel Permits

Costa Mesa offers an expedited, streamlined permitting process for small residential solar energy systems complying with AB 2188 and the California Solar Rights Act. Systems up to 10 kW AC on single-family or duplex dwellings qualify for simplified plan check through the city's online TESSA portal.

Key details: Permit Portal: TESSA online system. Small System: Up to 10 kW AC or 30 kW thermal. Eligible Dwellings: Single-family or duplex. Processing Time: 7-21 days typical. Building Safety: (714) 754-5245.

Installing solar panels without a permit may result in removal orders and fines. Unpermitted systems may also cause issues with utility interconnection and insurance. Contact Costa Mesa Building Safety at (714) 754-5245.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Costa Mesa gives residents more flexibility on panel permits.

HOA Restrictions

California's Solar Rights Act and AB 2188 protect Costa Mesa homeowners from unreasonable HOA restrictions on solar panel installations. HOAs may impose only reasonable restrictions that do not increase system cost by more than $1,000 or decrease efficiency by more than 10%, and must review applications within 45 days.

Key details: Governing Law: CA Civil Code §§714, 714.1. Cost Impact Limit: Cannot exceed $1,000 increase. Efficiency Limit: Cannot reduce by >10%. HOA Review Period: 45 days max. Non-Response: Deemed approved after 45 days.

HOAs that impose unreasonable restrictions on solar installations may face legal action from homeowners under the Solar Rights Act. Homeowners may recover actual damages plus attorney fees. Contact the California Department of Consumer Affairs or a real estate attorney for enforcement assistance.

Costa Mesa is more permissive than most cities when it comes to hoa restrictions. That said, there are still limits.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Costa Mesa gives residents more room on solar energy. 2 of the 2 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

This guide is based on Costa Mesa's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.