Alameda County HOAs cannot prohibit solar under CA Civil Code 714 (Solar Rights Act). Only reasonable restrictions are allowed that do not significantly reduce efficiency or raise cost.
The California Solar Rights Act (Civil Code 714) voids any HOA rule that effectively prohibits or restricts solar energy systems. Reasonable restrictions are allowed only if they do not significantly decrease efficiency (defined as more than 10 percent reduction in output or more than 1,000 dollars increase in cost for photovoltaic systems). AB 634 (2017) clarified that HOAs cannot require solar on common roofs to go through full architectural review that effectively blocks installations. The HOA must approve or deny applications within 45 days, and failure to respond constitutes approval. HOAs in Dublin Ranch, Ruby Hill Pleasanton, and other Alameda County planned communities have lost challenges in court when they denied solar for purely aesthetic reasons. Homeowners may recover attorney fees and actual damages plus a civil penalty of up to 1,000 dollars for willful violations.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Alameda County, CA
Alameda County noise ordinance (Chapter 6.60) sets detailed dB limits by zone and time. Residential nighttime (10 PM–7 AM): 45 dBA for 30+ min/hr, up to 65 d...
Alameda County, CA
Outdoor music in unincorporated Alameda County requires compliance with residential decibel limits and typically a temporary use or special event permit for ...
Alameda County, CA
Alameda County unincorporated areas allow leaf blowers during general construction/maintenance hours. California AB 1346 bans the sale of new gas-powered lea...
Alameda County, CA
Unincorporated Alameda County regulates RV parking through zoning ordinance. 72-hour street limit applies. Specific requirements vary by PD and zoning district.
Alameda County, CA
Alameda County unincorporated areas require driveways to be paved, maintain clear sight lines, and not block sidewalks or public right-of-way. Encroachment p...
Alameda County, CA
Alameda County Zoning Code §17.52.430 limits fences to 4 feet in required front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards. A 2-foot limit applies within 30 fee...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle hoa restrictions.
See how Sunol's hoa restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.