DeSoto, TX Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)

Texas Property Code Chapter 202 (Section 202.010) strongly protects homeowners' rights to install solar energy devices on their property regardless of HOA deed restrictions. Under Texas SB 398 (2011), a homeowners' association may not prohibit a property owner from installing a solar energy device. HOAs may impose only limited reasonable restrictions related to location — generally, they can require roof-mounted systems to be located on the rear or sides of the roof not visible from the street if doing so does not reduce the device's estimated annual energy production by more than 10% versus the owner's preferred location. HOAs may also require panels to conform to the roof slope, not extend above the roofline, have frames and visible piping of a color matching the roof or a silver/bronze/black finish, and not void roof warranties. HOA restrictions that effectively prohibit solar or increase costs by more than $1,000 or 10% are void. Owners should submit an Architectural Control Committee application with product spec sheets demonstrating compliance.