Fontana vs San Bernardino
How do hoa restrictions rules compare between Fontana, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Fontana and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
California Civil Code 714 (Solar Rights Act) preempts HOA solar bans in Fontana. HOAs cannot increase cost over $1,000 or cut performance over 10 percent, and must decide applications in 45 days.
View full Fontana rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
California Civil Code 714 limits HOA authority over rooftop solar in San Bernardino. HOAs cannot unreasonably restrict solar, impose costs over 1,000 dollars, or reduce system efficiency below designed output.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Law | Civil Code 714 (Solar Rights Act) | - |
| Cost Threshold | $1,000 cost increase | 1,000 dollars significant |
| Performance Threshold | 10% efficiency loss | - |
| Review Window | 45 days (Civil Code 714.1) | - |
| Penalty | Up to $1,000 + fees | - |
| Governing Statute | - | Civil Code 714 and 714.1 |
| Efficiency Threshold | - | 10% significant |
| ARC Decision Window | - | 45 days (deemed approved) |
| Attorney Fees | - | Prevailing party recovers |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Can my Fontana HOA deny my solar panels?
Only if the HOA's restriction does not significantly increase system cost or decrease performance. Outright prohibition is illegal under Civil Code 714.
What if my HOA ignores my solar application?
Under Civil Code 714.1, the application is deemed approved if the HOA fails to approve or deny within 45 days of receipt.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can my San Bernardino HOA make me put solar on the back roof only?
Only if doing so does not significantly reduce system efficiency (more than 10 percent) or increase cost (more than 1,000 dollars). Most north or shaded roof placements violate these thresholds and would be unenforceable.
What happens if my HOA ignores my solar application?
Under Civil Code 714(e)(2), if the HOA fails to issue a decision within 45 days of a complete application, the installation is deemed approved. Document the submittal and timeline carefully in case of dispute.
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