HOA Restrictions: Martinez vs Pittsburg
How do hoa restrictions rules compare between Martinez, CA and Pittsburg, CA?
Martinez and Pittsburg have similar restriction levels.
Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Homeowner association restrictions on rooftop solar in unincorporated Contra Costa County are governed by California Civil Code 714 (Solar Rights Act). HOAs cannot effectively prohibit or significantly limit residential solar installations.
View full Martinez rules →Pittsburg, CA
Contra Costa County
California Civil Code §714, the Solar Rights Act, strongly protects homeowners from HOA restrictions on solar panels. HOAs cannot prohibit solar systems or impose restrictions that reduce efficiency by more than 10% or add more than $1,000 (or 10% of system cost) in costs. These rights apply to all Pittsburg HOAs.
View full Pittsburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Martinez | Pittsburg |
|---|---|---|
| Governing law | CA Civil Code 714 | - |
| Efficiency floor | HOA cannot reduce output >10% | - |
| Cost cap | Restrictions cannot raise cost >$1,000 | - |
| Review timeline | 45 days — automatic approval if missed | - |
| Penalty | Up to $1,000 + damages + attorneys' fees | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Martinez FAQ
Can my HOA require solar panels only on the back of my house?
Only if relocating does not reduce efficiency by more than 10 percent or increase cost by more than $1,000 over the roof-side the homeowner selected. Otherwise the restriction is void under Civil Code 714.
What if my HOA refuses to approve my solar installation?
The HOA must decide within 45 days of a complete application; failure to act means automatic approval. If they deny improperly, you may sue for up to $1,000 plus actual damages and attorneys' fees.
Pittsburg FAQ
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