Unlike many states, Ohio has not enacted a solar-rights statute, so HOAs and condominium associations may legally restrict or prohibit solar panels on private homes.
Ohio is one of a minority of states without a solar-access or solar-rights law. ORC Chapter 5311 (condominiums) and ORC Chapter 5312 (planned communities) allow homeowner associations to enforce architectural restrictions including those that ban or limit solar panel installations on roofs and yards. Multiple Ohio bills have been introduced (such as HB 197 in past sessions) but none have been enacted. HOAs in Ohio can require panel placement, color, or completely deny installation through covenant restrictions enforceable as private contracts. The Ohio Power Siting Board jurisdiction under ORC 4906 applies only to utility-scale projects, not private homes.
HOA covenant violations can result in fines, liens, and lawsuits to compel removal. Owners installing solar against covenants face full enforcement under ORC 5312.11 dispute procedures.
See how Liberty Township's hoa restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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