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Alameda County, CA Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)

Few Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: California Civil Code 714 →

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Key Facts

Governing law: Civil Code 714 Solar Rights Act
Efficiency threshold: 10 percent output / 1,000 dollars
Review deadline: 45 days, silence = approval
Common roofs: Protected by AB 634

City-specific rules exist: Berkeley, San Leandro, Fremont, Livermore, Hayward, and Oakland have their own hoa restrictions rules that differ from Alameda County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Alameda County HOAs cannot prohibit solar under CA Civil Code 714 (Solar Rights Act). Only reasonable restrictions are allowed that do not significantly reduce efficiency or raise cost.

Full Breakdown

The California Solar Rights Act (Civil Code 714) voids any HOA rule that effectively prohibits or restricts solar energy systems. Reasonable restrictions are allowed only if they do not significantly decrease efficiency (defined as more than 10 percent reduction in output or more than 1,000 dollars increase in cost for photovoltaic systems). AB 634 (2017) clarified that HOAs cannot require solar on common roofs to go through full architectural review that effectively blocks installations. The HOA must approve or deny applications within 45 days, and failure to respond constitutes approval. HOAs in Dublin Ranch, Ruby Hill Pleasanton, and other Alameda County planned communities have lost challenges in court when they denied solar for purely aesthetic reasons. Homeowners may recover attorney fees and actual damages plus a civil penalty of up to 1,000 dollars for willful violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my HOA require specific panel colors?

Only if it does not reduce efficiency by more than 10 percent or add more than 1,000 dollars in cost. All-black panels are typically acceptable, but restrictive tile-matching rules often fail this test.

What if my HOA delays my solar application?

Under Civil Code 714, failure to respond within 45 days constitutes approval. Document your submittal date and proceed if no decision is issued.

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See how Alameda County's hoa restrictions rules stack up against other locations.

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Alameda County, CA Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

California Civil Code § 714(a)–(b)

Full Breakdown

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Related Alameda County Ordinances

Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours

Noise Ordinances: Outdoor Music

Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules

Parking Rules: RV & Boat Parking

Parking Rules: Driveway Rules

Fence Regulations: Height Limits

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