Solar Energy in Santa Monica, CA (2026)
2 verified solar energy rules for Santa Monica, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
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.
Santa Monica Solar Panel Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsHOA 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.
Santa Monica Solar Panel HOA Rules
Few RestrictionsCalifornia Civil Code Section 714 (Solar Rights Act - HOA Solar Restrictions Void)
714. (a) Any covenant, restriction, or condition contained in any deed, contract, security instrument, or other instrument affecting the transfer or sale of, or any interest in, real property, and any provision of a governing document ... that effectively prohibits or restricts the installation or use of a solar energy system is void and unenforceable. (b) This section does not apply to provisi...
Looking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Santa Monica city rules.
Solar Energy in Los Angeles County →