Texas Property Code Section 202.010 prohibits HOAs from banning solar energy devices on residential property. HOAs may adopt reasonable restrictions on panel placement but cannot prevent installation or substantially increase cost. Restrictions cannot reduce system output by more than 10% or increase total cost by more than 10%. The Texas Solar Rights Act ensures homeowners can install solar panels even in deed-restricted communities, and Austin's pro-solar policies align with state protections.
Solar access rights in Austin are protected by Texas state law, which limits the ability of homeowners associations to prohibit or unreasonably restrict solar panel installations. While HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic guidelines (such as panel color, placement optimization, or screening from certain views), they cannot: ban solar panels outright, require approval processes that take more than 30–60 days, mandate changes that reduce system output by more than 10%, or impose conditions that increase installation costs by more than $1,000–$2,000. Architectural review applications for solar must be processed within a reasonable timeframe. Denials must cite specific, objective architectural standards. Roof-mounted panels are generally protected more strongly than ground-mounted arrays. Some state laws also protect solar water heaters and small wind systems.
HOA enforcement of illegal solar restrictions may expose the HOA to liability. Homeowners can file complaints with the state real estate commission or attorney general's office.
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See how Austin's hoa restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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