Kailua's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In Kailua, Hawaii, 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.

HOA Restrictions

Kailua homeowner associations cannot block solar panel installation on single-family homes or townhouses under Hawaii state law HRS Sec. 196-7.

Key details: State code: HRS Sec. 196-7. Preemption: Voids contrary CC&Rs. Efficiency limit: Max 25 percent reduction. Cost limit: Max 15 percent increase.

HOAs that enforce void restrictions risk civil actions by homeowners. Reasonable placement guidelines within the statutory limits remain enforceable.

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

Panel Permits

Kailua homeowners installing rooftop PV qualify for expedited permits under ROH Sec. 18-5.10; new homes must include solar-ready capacity for a 5kW AC array.

Key details: Code: ROH Sec. 18-5.10. Expedited: Clean energy projects. Solar-ready: Building Code Sec. R408. State reference: HRS Sec. 269-101 et seq..

Unpermitted PV installations can be red-tagged, require disconnection, and block Hawaiian Electric interconnection until permitting is cured with DPP.

The Bottom Line

Kailua'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 Kailua is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Kailua's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.