New York State Real Property Law §425-b (the Solar Access Act) limits the ability of HOAs and condominium associations to prohibit solar installations but allows reasonable aesthetic requirements. NYC co-op boards have broader authority to restrict alterations under proprietary leases. Landmark buildings require LPC approval.
New York State's Solar Access Act (Real Property Law §425-b) provides that homeowner associations and condominium boards cannot unreasonably restrict solar installations, but may impose reasonable aesthetic requirements regarding placement, angle, and screening. However, NYC's dominant housing form — co-ops — operates differently. Co-op boards have broad authority under proprietary leases to approve or deny alterations, and solar panel installation typically requires board approval for any rooftop work. Condo boards may impose similar rules through their bylaws. In NYC Landmark districts and on individually designated landmarks, the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) must approve any visible rooftop installations. LPC has guidelines for solar panel installations on landmarks that may require panels to be set back from the roof edge or not visible from the street. NYCHA (public housing) has its own solar programs but individual tenant installations are not permitted. NYC's Building Code requires structural review for rooftop installations to ensure the building can support the added load.
Installing without board approval in a co-op/condo: breach of proprietary lease or bylaws, potential removal at owner's expense. LPC violation for unapproved installation on a landmark: fines and mandatory removal. DOB violation for structural non-compliance.
New York, NY
New York City enforces strict noise rules under Administrative Code Title 24, Chapter 2 (the NYC Noise Code, rewritten by Local Law 113 of 2005). Sound excee...
New York, NY
NYC bans commercial vehicles on residential streets 9 PM-5 AM and caps any commercial-vehicle parking at 3 hours per block (NYC Admin Code §19-170). 'Commerc...
New York, NY
In NYC residence districts, Zoning Resolution §23-44 limits fences in front yards to 4 feet above adjoining grade and permits walls up to 8 feet (not roofed ...
New York, NY
Section 161.05 of the New York City Health Code requires every dog in any public place, or in any open or unfenced area abutting a public place, to be effect...
New York, NY
All consumer fireworks are illegal in New York City, including sparkling devices that are legal in much of New York State. NYC Fire Code Section FC 5601.3.2 ...
New York, NY
New York City has no ordinance specific to residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on private property. Landmark Preservation Commiss...
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