Colorado C.R.S. §38-30-168 and §38-32.5-100.3 prohibit HOAs from banning solar panels. Reasonable aesthetic guidelines (location, color matching) allowed. HOAs cannot require ground mounts if rooftop is feasible.
Colorado's solar rights laws (C.R.S. §38-30-168 and §38-32.5-100.3) apply to all Denver HOAs and condominium associations. These statutes void any covenant or restriction that effectively prohibits or significantly increases the cost of a solar energy device. HOAs may adopt reasonable aesthetic rules — flush-mounted panels on the roof plane, preference for black frames/modules, conduit run inside attics where practical — but cannot outright ban rooftop solar or require relocation that reduces output by more than 10%. HOA review must complete within 60 days or approval is deemed granted. Architectural review must use objective written standards. Battery storage (Powerwalls, Enphase) is also covered under the broader 'solar energy device' definition. Denver has active HOAs in Stapleton/Central Park, Green Valley Ranch, Lowry, and Green Valley Ranch that apply aesthetic guidelines.
HOA illegal ban: homeowner may sue for damages plus attorney fees under C.R.S. §38-30-168(4). Denial beyond 60 days: deemed approved. HOA over-reach on aesthetics: unenforceable.
See how Denver County's hoa restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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