Texas Property Code Section 202.010 significantly limits HOA authority over solar panels in Baytown. HOAs cannot prohibit solar energy devices and may only impose restrictions that do not increase installation cost by more than 10% or decrease efficiency by more than 10%. Deed restrictions attempting to ban solar panels are void and unenforceable.
Texas Property Code Section 202.010 provides strong protections for homeowners wishing to install solar energy devices. A property owners' association may not include or enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument that prohibits or restricts a property owner from installing a solar energy device. HOAs may adopt reasonable rules regarding placement that do not increase the cost of the device by more than 10%, decrease the efficiency by more than 10%, or prevent installation entirely. The law applies to rooftop panels, ground-mounted arrays, and solar water heating systems. Any deed restriction, covenant, or HOA rule that effectively bans solar panels is void under state law. Homeowners in Baytown HOA communities who face denial of solar panel installation can cite this statute. The law does not require the HOA to approve the installation — it prevents the HOA from blocking it. However, homeowners should still submit architectural review applications when required by their HOA to document compliance. Disputes may be resolved through mediation or civil court. The Texas Attorney General's office can provide guidance on property owners' association disputes.
HOAs that enforce solar panel bans or impose unreasonable restrictions violating Texas Property Code Section 202.010 face legal liability. Homeowners can seek declaratory judgment that the restriction is void. Courts may award attorney fees to prevailing homeowners. HOAs cannot fine homeowners for compliant solar installations.
Baytown, TX
Baytown Code of Ordinances Chapter 14 (Animals) addresses barking dogs as a nuisance. A dog that barks, howls, or makes excessive noise continuously for an e...
Baytown, TX
Baytown Code of Ordinances Chapter 34 (Nuisances) regulates construction noise in residential areas. Construction activities producing loud noise are restric...
Baytown, TX
Baytown Code of Ordinances Chapter 34 (Nuisances) prohibits unreasonably loud or disturbing sounds including amplified music. Sound from loudspeakers, PA sys...
Baytown, TX
Baytown enforces noise regulations under its Code of Ordinances. Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM in residential areas. Located near major ExxonMobil and Chevro...
Baytown, TX
Baytown does not have a specific ordinance restricting leaf blower use. Gas-powered and electric leaf blowers are permitted for residential and commercial la...
Baytown, TX
Baytown has relatively permissive street parking rules. There are no residential parking permits, no general time limits for street parking, and no alternate...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle hoa restrictions.
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