Rhode Island HOA Solar Restrictions Limited by Statute

R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-40-2 declares that no instrument creating a restriction on land use shall prohibit installation of solar collectors used for heating or cooling. Such prohibitions are void and unenforceable as contrary to public policy. Homeowners associations and condominium associations cannot ban rooftop solar PV or solar thermal systems through covenants, conditions, or restrictions. HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic or placement guidelines that do not significantly increase cost or decrease efficiency. The statute applies uniformly statewide regardless of municipality, providing strong protection for residential solar installations.

HOA restrictions violating § 34-40-2 are void. Affected homeowners may seek declaratory and injunctive relief, and prevailing parties may recover litigation costs in some cases.