San Francisco's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In San Francisco, 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.

HOA Restrictions

California Civil Code §714 (the Solar Rights Act) prohibits HOAs and CC&Rs from effectively banning solar energy systems. Any restriction that increases cost by more than $1,000 or decreases efficiency by more than 10% is void and unenforceable in San Francisco and statewide.

Key details: State Law: CA Civil Code §714 (Solar Rights Act). HOA Limits: Cannot ban solar or increase cost >$1,000. Efficiency: Cannot reduce efficiency >10%. Aesthetic Rules: Reasonable requirements allowed. Enforcement: Restrictions are void if non-compliant.

HOA restrictions that violate the Solar Rights Act are void and unenforceable. Homeowners may seek legal remedies if an HOA unlawfully blocks a solar installation.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find San Francisco gives residents more flexibility on hoa restrictions.

Panel Permits

San Francisco's Better Roofs Ordinance (Planning Code §427) requires new construction of 10+ stories or less to devote at least 15% of roof area to solar panels, living roofs, or a combination. A building permit from DBI is required for all solar panel installations.

Key details: Better Roofs Ordinance: Planning Code §427. Roof Requirement: 15% of roof area for solar or living roof. Applies To: New buildings 10 stories or less. Permit Process: Expedited OTC for standard residential. State Mandate: Title 24 solar also applies to new homes.

Failure to comply with the Better Roofs Ordinance can result in denial of building permits or certificates of occupancy. Unpermitted solar installations may require removal or retrofit and are subject to code enforcement penalties.

This is one of the stricter rules in San Francisco's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

San Francisco'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 San Francisco is broadly strict or permissive.

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