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Solar Energy

Santa Monica's Solar Energy: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles solar energy a little differently. In Santa Monica, 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

Santa Monica requires solar installations and offers automated permitting via SolarAPP+ for qualifying systems. The city's solar ordinance (SMMC §8.106) requires new construction to install solar PV: 1.5x sq ft for single-family, 2.0x for multi-family/commercial.

Key details: New SF Homes: 1.5x sq ft solar PV required. New MF/Commercial: 2.0x building footprint. SolarAPP+: Automated permitting available. Code: SMMC §8.106.

Installation without permit: retroactive permit required plus fines $200 to $1,000. Electrical code violations: correction order. Failure to obtain utility interconnection: system must be disconnected.

HOA Restrictions

CA Civil Code §714 (Solar Rights Act) prohibits HOAs from banning solar panels in Santa Monica. HOAs may only impose reasonable restrictions that do not significantly increase cost or decrease efficiency of solar installations.

Key details: HOA Bans: Prohibited by state law. State Law: CA Civil Code §714. Restrictions: Only reasonable ones allowed. Cost Impact: Cannot significantly increase cost.

HOA fines for non-compliance with aesthetic guidelines: varies by CC&Rs. Installing without HOA approval where required: typically $50 to $200 fines until resolved. HOA illegally blocking solar: homeowner may recover legal costs.

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

The Bottom Line

Santa Monica'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 Santa Monica is broadly strict or permissive.

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