York County, SC Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- State Protection
- None in South Carolina
- HOA Ban
- Enforceable by covenant
- Approval
- Architectural review common
- No HOA
- No private restriction
Summary
South Carolina has no solar access law. Unlike Texas, Florida, or California, no statute stops a homeowners association in York County from restricting or banning rooftop solar. A properly recorded covenant that limits panels is enforceable here.
Except as otherwise provided in this section, in order to be enforceable, a homeowners association's governing documents must be recorded in the clerk of court's, Register of Mesne Conveyance (RMC), or register of deeds office in the county where the property is located.
Full Breakdown
South Carolina is a state without a solar rights or solar access statute. Bills to void HOA solar bans were introduced repeatedly, in 2019, 2021, 2023, and again in 2025, but none has been enacted, so there is no state protection overriding a homeowners association covenant. Under the South Carolina Homeowners Association Act, a recorded declaration or rule is enforceable, and in the many governed subdivisions across the fast-growing Fort Mill, Tega Cay, and Lake Wylie side of York County, an association may require architectural review, limit panel placement, or prohibit roof-mounted solar outright. A homeowner outside any HOA faces no such private restriction and needs only the county building and electrical permits.
Violations & Fines
Installing panels against an enforceable recorded covenant exposes the owner to HOA fines, forced removal, and liens. The association can seek injunctive relief and, under many declarations, recover attorney's fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my York County HOA ban solar panels?
How do I avoid an HOA solar dispute?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in York County
Compare York County to another location·View the South Carolina solar energy overview
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