Grove City, OH Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- No solar access preemption
- Relevant Statute
- ORC 5312 / 5311
- Failed Bill
- HB 450 (2022)
- Common Rule
- Rear-roof only
- Enforcement
- Private HOA action
Summary
Ohio has no statewide solar access law preventing HOAs from restricting solar panels. HOA covenants in Grove City planned communities (Pinnacle, Hoover Crossing, Grove City Station, Buckeye Parkway) may require architectural review or prohibit front-facing panels.
(A) Unless specifically prohibited in the declaration, any owner may install a solar energy collection device on the owner's dwelling unit or other location within the owner's lot if either of the following conditions apply: (1) The cost to insure, maintain, repair, and replace the unit's roof or alternative location within the lot is not a common expense of the owners association and is instead the owner's responsibility. (2) The declaration specifically allows for and regulates the types and installation of solar energy collection devices within the planned community and establishes responsibility for the cost to insure, maintain, repair, and replace such devices. (B) Notwithstanding division (A) of this section, an owners association may establish reasonable restrictions concerning the size, place, and manner of placement of solar energy collection devices. (C) Prior to imposing a charge for damages or an enforcement assessment pursuant to this section, the board of directors shall give the owner a written notice, which may be in the form of electronic mail to an electronic mail address previously provided by the owner in writing that includes all of the following: (1) A description of the property damage or violation; (2) The amount of the proposed charge or assessment; (3) A statement that the owner has a right to a hearing before the board of directors to contest the proposed charge or assessment; (4) A statement setting forth the procedures to request a hearing; (5) A reasonable date by which the unit owner must cure the violation to avoid the proposed charge or assessment. (D) As used in this section, "solar energy collection device" has the same meaning as in section 5311.192 of the Revised Code.
Full Breakdown
Unlike 29 states with solar access laws, Ohio does not limit HOA authority. HB 450 (2022) proposed limits but did not pass. Homeowners in Grove City deed-restricted communities must check their CCRs and submit plans to the Architectural Review Committee before installation. Common HOA rules: panels only on rear-facing roof slopes, no ground mounts, integrated (BIPV) tiles preferred, screening of inverters. Non-HOA Grove City neighborhoods (older R-1/R-2) have no such restrictions beyond City zoning.
Violations & Fines
HOA violation: private enforcement through deed restrictions, potential liens, attorney fees under ORC 5312 (planned communities) or 5311 (condos). City does not enforce HOA rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA stop me from installing solar in Grove City?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Grove City
Compare Grove City to another location·View the Ohio solar energy overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
HOA Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Franklin County handle hoa restrictions.