Dallas, TX Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- TX Property Code Sec. 202.010
- HOA Cannot Ban
- Solar device prohibition is void
- Allowed Restrictions
- Roofline conformance, color, HOA review
- 10% Rule
- Owner can petition if alternate site boosts output 10%+
- HB 431 (2025)
- Solar roof tiles now protected
Summary
Texas Property Code Sec. 202.010 prohibits HOAs from banning solar energy devices on residential properties. HOAs may regulate placement (roof-mounted must match roofline slope, cannot extend above roofline), color (silver, bronze, or black tones), and may require architectural review. Ground-mounted systems cannot extend above the fence line. If an owner proves an alternative placement increases energy production by more than 10% using the NREL PVWatts Calculator, the HOA must allow it. HB 431 (2025) added solar roof tiles to protections.
Sec. 202.010. REGULATION OF SOLAR ENERGY DEVICES. (a) In this section:(1) "Development period" means a period stated in a declaration during which a declarant reserves:(A) a right to facilitate the development, construction, and marketing of the subdivision; and(B) a right to direct the size, shape, and composition of the subdivision.(1-a) "Residential unit" means a structure or part of a structure intended for use as a single residence and that is:(A) a single-family house; or(B) a separate living unit in a duplex, a triplex, or a quadplex.(2) "Solar energy device" has the meaning assigned by Section 171.107, Tax Code. The term includes a solar roof tile.(b) Except as otherwise provided by Subsection (d), a property owners' association may not include or enforce a provision in a dedica...
Full Breakdown
Most states have enacted solar access or solar rights laws that limit HOA restrictions on solar panel installations. These laws typically prevent HOAs from banning rooftop solar systems outright or imposing conditions that significantly increase cost or decrease efficiency. HOAs may have reasonable aesthetic guidelines such as preferred placement, color matching, and screening from street view, but cannot effectively prohibit installation. Architectural review committees must use objective criteria. Ground-mounted systems may face more HOA restrictions than roof-mounted panels. Battery storage systems may have separate HOA guidelines. CC&R provisions that contradict state solar access laws are generally unenforceable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Dallas HOA block solar panels?
What can my HOA still regulate about solar panels?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas to another location·View the Texas solar energy overview
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HOA Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle hoa restrictions.