Ormond Beach, FL Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)

F.S. §163.04 is one of the nation's strongest solar access laws. It provides: (1) no deed restriction, covenant, or homeowner's association rule may prohibit the installation of solar energy devices; (2) HOAs may determine the specific roof location, but only if the alternate location does not impair the system's performance by more than 10% from the homeowner's preferred location; (3) the statute applies to all HOAs including condo associations, mandatory HOAs, and deed-restricted communities. This applies to all Volusia County HOAs including large master-planned communities (LPGA International, Victoria Park, Spruce Creek Fly-In, Venetian Bay). HOAs may still impose reasonable aesthetic conditions like requiring black-on-black panels, black frames, or conduit painted to match, but cannot use aesthetics to effectively block installation. Ground-mounted systems may face more HOA scrutiny than roof-mounted. Approval timelines vary by CC&Rs but must be 'reasonable' under Florida case law. Battery storage falls under similar protection as part of the PV 'system'.