Mountain View, CA Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- Civil Code 714
- Cost threshold
- 10 percent or 1,000 dollars
- Efficiency threshold
- 10 percent reduction max
- Review deadline
- 45 days or auto-approval
- Aesthetic limits
- Reasonable conditions allowed
Summary
California Civil Code 714 prohibits Mountain View HOAs from unreasonably restricting residential solar. Aesthetic guidelines are allowed but cannot significantly raise cost or cut performance.
714. (a) Any covenant, restriction, or condition contained in any deed, contract, security instrument, or other instrument affecting the transfer or sale of, or any interest in, real property, and any provision of a governing document, as defined in Section 4150 or 6552, that effectively prohibits or restricts the installation or use of a solar energy system is void and unenforceable.
(b) This section does not apply to provisions that impose reasonable restrictions on solar energy systems. However, it is the policy of the state to promote and encourage the use of solar energy systems and to remove obstacles thereto. Accordingly, reasonable restrictions on a solar energy system are those restrictions that do not significantly increase the cost of the system or significantly decrease its efficiency or specified performance, or that allow for an alternative system of comparable cost, efficiency, and energy conservation benefits.
(f) Any entity, other than a public entity, that willfully violates this section shall be liable to the applicant or other party for actual damages occasioned thereby, and shall pay a civil penalty to the applicant or other party in an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).
Full Breakdown
California Civil Code Section 714 (the Solar Rights Act) preempts HOA covenants, conditions, and restrictions that significantly restrict the installation or use of solar energy systems. A restriction is deemed unreasonable if it increases system cost by more than 10 percent or 1,000 dollars over the system cost, or decreases efficiency by more than 10 percent. HOAs must approve or deny applications within 45 days or they are automatically approved. Common reasonable conditions include requiring conduit to run in enclosed channels, using low-profile rails, and placing inverters in inconspicuous locations. HOAs cannot require panels to face a less-efficient orientation solely for appearance. Mountain View condominiums and planned developments including San Antonio Place, Cuesta Park Village, and Whisman Station must comply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA require panels on the back of my house?
What if my HOA denies my solar application?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mountain View
California rules heatmap·Compare Mountain View to another location·View the California solar energy overview
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HOA Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Santa Clara County handle hoa restrictions.