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☀️ Solar Energy/HOA Restrictions

Ontario vs San Bernardino

How do hoa restrictions rules compare between Ontario, CA and San Bernardino, CA?

Ontario and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.

Ontario, CA

San Bernardino County

Few Restrictions

California Civil Code 714 (Solar Rights Act) bars Ontario HOAs from banning rooftop solar, and aesthetic rules cannot add over 1,000 dollars in cost or cut output by more than 10 percent.

View full Ontario rules →

San Bernardino, CA

San Bernardino County

Few Restrictions

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

FactOntarioSan Bernardino
StatuteCivil Code 714 (Solar Rights)-
Cost capMax $1,000 added cost-
EfficiencyMax 10% output reduction-
Review45 days deemed approved-
Governing Statute-Civil Code 714 and 714.1
Cost Threshold-1,000 dollars significant
Efficiency Threshold-10% significant
ARC Decision Window-45 days (deemed approved)
Attorney Fees-Prevailing party recovers

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Ontario FAQ

Can my HOA require panels on the back of the roof?

Only if rear placement does not reduce output by more than 10 percent or cost more than 1,000 dollars to install.

What if my HOA ignores my application?

After 45 days with no decision, your application is deemed approved under Civil Code 714 and AB 2188.

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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