Illinois Homeowners Solar Rights Act (765 ILCS 165) prohibits HOAs and CC&Rs from effectively banning rooftop solar. HOAs in Lake Forest, Vernon Hills, Libertyville, and Gurnee may impose reasonable aesthetic rules but cannot block installation outright.
The Illinois Homeowners' Energy Policy Statement Act, 765 ILCS 165/, and the Homeowners' Solar Rights Act specifically protect a homeowner's right to install solar energy systems in common-interest communities. HOAs cannot prohibit rooftop solar, impose conditions that increase cost by more than 10% or reduce output by more than 10%, or require aesthetic changes beyond what is strictly necessary. HOA boards must decide on a solar application within 75 days and must state objective, written grounds for any denial. Common-interest communities in Lake County — including Four Lakes (Lisle/Lake County line), Cambridge at Hawthorn Woods, and many Libertyville and Vernon Hills developments — have adopted solar-friendly policies to comply. Ground-mount systems receive less protection and may face stricter HOA setback/screening requirements. Battery storage (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase) is also protected. Violating the Solar Rights Act exposes an HOA to actual damages, court costs, and attorney fees recoverable by the homeowner.
HOA unlawful denial: homeowner recovers costs, damages, and attorney fees under 765 ILCS 165. Unreasonable delay past 75 days: application deemed approved. Aesthetic fines that effectively ban solar: unenforceable.
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