Massachusetts protects solar from municipal zoning but not from private HOA covenants. Chapter 40A Section 3's ban on unreasonable regulation applies to cities and towns, not homeowner associations, so Essex County condo and subdivision associations may restrict panel placement through their recorded bylaws.
Unlike several states, Massachusetts has no solar-access statute that voids homeowner association restrictions. MGL Chapter 40A, Section 3 restrains only municipal zoning, leaving private covenants fully enforceable. Essex County condominium and subdivision associations regulate panel visibility, roof placement, and ground-mount screening through recorded bylaws and architectural review committees. Owners must obtain association approval and review the master deed before installing.
Installing panels without association approval breaches the recorded covenants, exposing the owner to fines, forced removal, and a lien or civil action by the association.
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