Minneapolis, MN Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing Law
- MN Stat 500.215
- Blanket Ban
- Unenforceable
- Allowed Rules
- Reasonable aesthetic conditions
- Condo Roofs
- Common element, board approval
- Enforcement
- Civil action, not city
Summary
Minnesota Statute 500.215 voids HOA covenants that unreasonably restrict solar energy systems. Minneapolis condo and townhome boards cannot ban rooftop solar outright.
500.215 LIMITS ON CERTAIN RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY RIGHTS PROHIBITED; FLAG DISPLAY. Subdivision 1. General rule. (a) Any provision of any deed restriction, subdivision regulation, restrictive covenant, local ordinance, contract, rental agreement or regulation, or homeowners association document that limits the right of an owner or tenant of residential property to display the flag of the United States and the flag of the State of Minnesota is void and unenforceable. (b) "Homeowners association document" includes the declaration, articles of incorporation, bylaws, and rules and regulations of: (1) a common interest community, as defined in section 515B.1-103(10), regardless of whether the common interest community is subject to chapter 515B; and (2) a residential community that is not a common interest community, as defined in section 515B.1-103(10). Subd. 2. Exceptions. (a) This section does not prohibit limitations narrowly tailored to protect health or safety. (b) This section does not prohibit limitations that restrict: (1) the size of the flag to be displayed to a size customarily used on residential property; (2) the installation and display of the flag to a portion of the residential property to which the person who displays the flag has exclusive use; or (3) illuminating the flag. Subd. 4. Recovery of attorney fees. If an owner or tenant of residential property is denied the right provided by this section, the owner or tenant is entitled to recover, from the party who denied the right, reasonable attorney fees and expenses if the owner or tenant prevails in enforcing the right.
Full Breakdown
Under MN Stat 500.215, any deed restriction, covenant, or HOA rule that impairs the reasonable use of a solar energy system is unenforceable. Associations may impose reasonable aesthetic conditions (color-matched racking, conduit routing, placement on rear roof slopes where feasible) but cannot prohibit solar or impose standards that significantly raise cost or reduce output. Condo associations with shared roofs have more latitude because the roof is common element; owners typically need board approval for common-element alteration. Townhome owners with individual roof ownership have stronger rights. Minneapolis does not separately enforce HOA solar disputes; enforcement is through civil action in district court.
Violations & Fines
HOAs enforcing prohibited restrictions face civil liability, attorney fees, and voided rules. Homeowners may seek declaratory judgment and damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Minneapolis condo board deny solar?
What if my HOA threatens fines?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Minneapolis
Compare Minneapolis to another location·View the Minnesota solar energy overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.