HOA Restrictions: Downers Grove vs Naperville
How do hoa restrictions rules compare between Downers Grove, IL and Naperville, IL?
Downers Grove and Naperville have similar restriction levels.
Downers Grove, IL
DuPage County
Illinois law requires homeowners associations to permit solar energy systems through reasonable policies, prohibiting outright bans or unreasonable restrictions on installations.
View full Downers Grove rules →Naperville, IL
DuPage County
Illinois law (765 ILCS 165, Solar Rights Act) limits HOA restrictions on solar installations. HOAs cannot completely prohibit solar panels but may impose reasonable aesthetic guidelines. Naperville's zoning supports solar in all districts for building-mounted systems.
View full Naperville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downers Grove | Naperville |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | 765 ILCS 165 | - |
| Required | Energy policy statement | - |
| Bans | Prohibited as unreasonable | - |
| Remedy | Civil action by owner | - |
| State Law | - | 765 ILCS 165 |
| HOA Ban | - | Prohibited by state law |
| Aesthetic Rules | - | Allowed if reasonable |
| Roof-Mounted | - | All zones, administrative |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downers Grove FAQ
Can my Illinois HOA prohibit solar panels?
No. Outright bans are unreasonable under 765 ILCS 165. HOAs must adopt policies allowing solar with only reasonable aesthetic or placement conditions.
What if my HOA refuses to approve panels?
You can file a civil action for declaratory or injunctive relief. Prevailing homeowners may recover attorney fees and costs against the association.
Naperville FAQ
Can my HOA ban solar panels in Naperville?
No. Illinois law (Solar Rights Act, 765 ILCS 165) prevents HOAs from completely prohibiting solar panels. They may impose reasonable aesthetic guidelines that do not significantly increase cost.
Do I need HOA approval for solar panels?
Most HOAs require architectural review board approval, but they cannot unreasonably deny solar installations under state law. Both HOA approval and a city building permit are needed.
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