Sanger, CA Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)

California Civil Code 714 establishes strong protections for solar energy system installations against HOA restrictions. Any CC&R provision, architectural committee rule, or HOA policy that effectively prohibits or unreasonably restricts solar energy systems is void and unenforceable. HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic requirements such as screening, orientation, or color specifications, but only if those requirements do not increase the total system cost by more than $1,000 or reduce system efficiency or output by more than 10 percent. The Solar Rights Act applies to all common interest developments governed by the Davis-Stirling Act, including single-family homes, condominiums, and planned unit developments within Sanger. HOAs cannot require solar panels to be placed in a less optimal location if doing so would significantly reduce energy production. The architectural review process must be completed within a reasonable timeframe and cannot be used to indefinitely delay installation. Civil Code 714.1 extends similar protections to solar energy system installations on common area roofs in condominiums when the system benefits the unit owner. Homeowners who believe their HOA has unreasonably restricted their solar installation may seek damages including attorney fees under Civil Code 714(f). Government Code 65850.5 reinforces these protections at the municipal level.