Will County, IL Solar Energy: HOA Restrictions (2026)

The Illinois Homeowners' Energy Policy Statement Act (765 ILCS 165/10), enacted 2011 and amended, requires every HOA, condo association, and common interest community to adopt an energy policy statement addressing solar energy systems. The Act voids any CC&R or board rule that prohibits rooftop solar collector installations. HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic and safety rules — approved placement on less-visible roof planes, color-matching of conduit, screening of ground-mount arrays — but restrictions that reduce system output by more than 10% from ideal or increase cost by more than $1,000 are deemed unreasonable and unenforceable. Review timelines: HOA must approve or provide written reasons for denial within 75 days of submittal; silence equals approval. This applies to all Will County HOAs in communities like Lakewood Falls (Plainfield), Liberty Commons (Bolingbrook), Wheatland Plains (Romeoville), Spencer's Crossing (New Lenox), Lakes of Frankfort, and subdivisions in Mokena and Lockport. Condo boards must also comply under the Condominium Property Act (765 ILCS 605/). Homeowners denied approval can sue for declaratory and injunctive relief plus attorney fees per 765 ILCS 165/20.