Aurora, CO Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- CRS 38-30-168
- Cost Limit
- 10% or $1,500
- Efficiency Limit
- 10% reduction max
- HOA Response
- 60 days
Summary
Colorado CRS 38-30-168 preempts HOAs from prohibiting solar panels; HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic guidelines but cannot effectively ban installations.
38-30-168. Unreasonable restrictions on renewable energy generation devices - definitions. (1) (a) A covenant, restriction, or condition contained in any deed, contract, security instrument, or other instrument affecting the transfer or sale of, or any interest in, real property that effectively prohibits or restricts the installation or use of a renewable energy generation device is void and unenforceable. (b) As used in this section, "renewable energy generation device" means: (I) A solar energy device, as defined in section 38-32.5-100.3;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Colorado Revised Statutes 38-30-168 protects homeowners' rights to install solar energy devices. HOAs and covenants cannot prohibit solar panels or impose restrictions that significantly increase cost (more than 10 percent or 1,500 dollars, whichever is less) or significantly decrease efficiency (more than 10 percent). HOAs may require panels be mounted flush to the roof, use non-reflective materials, or adopt reasonable placement guidelines when alternatives are equally effective. Written HOA approval processes must respond within 60 days. Aurora does not add local restrictions beyond state law. Homeowners denied solar can appeal to the HOA board and ultimately pursue civil remedies.
Violations & Fines
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Aurora code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA require specific panel colors?
What if my HOA denies my application?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Aurora
Compare Aurora to another location·View the Colorado solar energy overview
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