Baltimore, MD Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)

(b) (1) A restriction on use regarding land use may not impose or act to impose unreasonable limitations on the installation of a solar collector system on the roof or exterior walls of improvements, provided that the property owner owns or has the right to exclusive use of the roof or exterior walls.

(2) For purposes of paragraph (1) of this subsection, a restriction on use is unreasonable if application of the restriction on use to a particular proposal:

(i) Increases the installation cost of the solar collector system by at least 5% over the projected cost of the initially proposed installation; or

(ii) Reduces the energy generated by the solar collector system by at least 10% below the projected energy generation of the initially proposed installation.

(3) (i) The owner shall provide documentation that is satisfactory to the community association to show that the restriction is unreasonable under paragraph (2) of this subsection.

(ii) The documentation required under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph shall be prepared by an independent solar panel design specialist who:

1. Is certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners; or

2. Has attested by affidavit to designing at least 30 solar collector systems in the course of trade within the prior 3 years.

(4) (i) A community association may prohibit or restrict the installation of a solar collector system in the common area or common elements within the real estate development served by the association.