Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Solar Energy

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

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In Delano, California, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Panel Permits

Solar permits in Delano are processed under California's Solar Rights Act (Cal. Civ. Code §714) and AB 2188's expedited permitting requirements (Cal. Gov't Code §65850.5). The Building Department issues residential rooftop solar permits over-the-counter for systems up to 10 kW.

Key details: State Law: Cal. Civ. Code §714; Gov't Code §65850.5. Local Code: Delano DC §20.10.330. Expedited Cap: ≤10 kW residential.

Solar Rights Act §714 invalidates HOA or local rules that 'significantly increase the cost' or 'decrease the efficiency' of a solar system.

Delano is more permissive than most cities when it comes to panel permits. That said, there are still limits.

HOA Restrictions

Cal. Civil Code §714 (Solar Rights Act) preempts HOA and CC&R restrictions that significantly increase the cost or decrease the efficiency of a residential solar energy system. Delano CC&Rs are subject to this state law.

Key details: State Code: Cal. Civil Code §714. Approval Window: 45 days (HOA). Attorney Fees: Available to prevailing applicant.

HOA violations are private civil disputes; §714(f) authorizes attorney fees to prevailing solar-rights applicants.

The rules around hoa restrictions in Delano lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Delano 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 Delano's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.