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Clarksville, TN Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)

Heavy Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

State solar access law
T.C.A. 66-9-201 to 66-9-208
HOA override statute
None in Tennessee
What the law provides
Voluntary recorded easements only
Protected displays
Flags and water safety signs
City role
Zoning only, not private covenants

Summary

Tennessee has no solar access law that overrides private covenants. The Solar Access Law of 1979 only enables voluntary recorded easements between neighbors, so a Clarksville homeowners association may restrict or prohibit rooftop panels outright.

Any easement obtained pursuant to this part shall be in writing and shall be recorded with the register of deeds in the county in which the land is situated.

Source: City of Clarksville Code of OrdinancesView official code

Full Breakdown

The Solar Access Law of 1979 runs from T.C.A. 66-9-201 to 66-9-208 and covers a short title, legislative findings, a definition of solar energy system, the contents of easement instruments, how the easement runs with the land, the writing and recordation requirement, solar power facility agreements, and TDEC website guidance. Nothing in it voids a restrictive covenant. Tennessee's dedicatory instrument statutes at 66-27-602 and 66-27-603 protect flag display and water safety signs against association rules, and the Homeowners' Association part at 66-27-701 through 66-27-706 covers voting records, leasing rights and assessments. Solar appears in none of them. Read your recorded declaration before signing an installation contract.

Violations & Fines

Covenant enforcement is private, not municipal. An association may levy fines, sue for injunctive relief, or record a lien under its declaration. Clarksville code enforcement plays no part.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my HOA ban solar panels in Tennessee?
Yes. Tennessee has no statute limiting association restrictions on solar. The Solar Access Law of 1979 creates only voluntary easements, so a recorded declaration may prohibit panels.
What does a solar easement actually do?
It secures a neighbor's agreement not to block sunlight reaching your collector. It must be in writing and recorded with the register of deeds, and it runs with the land.
Does a Clarksville zoning approval beat my covenants?
No. Zoning Ordinance 5.3.7 permits solar panels as a utility accessory use, but city approval never overrides a private recorded declaration. The two operate independently.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Clarksville

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsPanel PermitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSignificant RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Exotic PetsSignificant Restrictions

All Clarksville rules

Compare Clarksville to another location·View the Tennessee solar energy overview

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