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Suffolk, VA Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

State Law
Va. Code 55.1-1820.1
Default Rule
HOA cannot ban solar
Exception
Recorded declaration may prohibit
Reasonable Limits
Size, place, manner allowed
Unreasonable Test
5% cost or 10% output

Summary

Virginia protects rooftop solar from HOA bans. Under Va. Code Section 55.1-1820.1, a Suffolk homeowners association cannot prohibit solar collectors unless its recorded declaration says so, though it may impose reasonable size and placement rules.

No association shall prohibit an owner from installing a solar energy collection device on that owner's property unless the recorded declaration for the association establishes such a prohibition.

Source: Suffolk Code of OrdinancesView official code

Full Breakdown

Virginia's solar-access protection sits in the Property Owners' Association Act, Va. Code Section 55.1-1820.1. It bars an association from prohibiting an owner from installing a solar energy collection device unless the recorded declaration itself establishes that prohibition. An association may still adopt reasonable restrictions on the size, place, and manner of placement. The statute makes a restriction unreasonable if it increases installation cost by 5 percent or more, or reduces energy production by 10 percent or more, from the owner's proposed design. So in Suffolk's many HOA subdivisions, panels are generally allowed subject to architectural review, unless the recorded declaration expressly forbids them.

Violations & Fines

An owner installing panels against an enforceable recorded prohibition, or ignoring approved reasonable restrictions, risks HOA fines, forced removal, and liens. An association that unlawfully bans solar can be challenged in court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Suffolk HOA ban solar panels?
Only if the recorded declaration expressly prohibits them. Otherwise Virginia Code 55.1-1820.1 bars the association from prohibiting solar, though it may set reasonable size and placement rules.
What counts as an unreasonable HOA solar restriction?
One that increases your installation cost by 5 percent or more, or reduces the system's energy output by 10 percent or more, from your proposed design.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Suffolk

Animal Ordinances: Chickens & LivestockHeavy RestrictionsFence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Neighbor Fence RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Exotic PetsSome Restrictions

All Suffolk rules

Compare Suffolk to another location·View the Virginia solar energy overview

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