Homeowners associations and solar access in Florida

Homeowners associations (HOA) typically define a neighborhood’s aesthetic rules and sometimes attempt to restrict your ability to go solar. Florida laws protect homeowners’ rights to generate solar energy.

Learn the basics

Homeowners associations in Florida

Florida Statute 163.04 forbids any binding agreement (between HOAs or otherwise) to prohibit a property owner from installing solar. An HOA may restrict where you place your solar panels, but not if the system’s performance suffers as a result. House Bill 697 expanded upon this legislation to allow condominium boards to install solar on their properties to benefit unit owners without their prior approval. It also allows the unit owners to install solar within their own condos.

Florida Statute 704.07 allows for the negotiation of solar easements to guarantee that a property owner’s solar panels get enough exposure to the sun.

Take action

Join the Florida Listserv

Having trouble with your HOA? The Solar United Neighbors of Florida Listserv is filled with fellow solar homeowners and solar supporters ready to help! Post to the listserv and get advice from our solar community in Florida.

Florida resources

Florida Solar Rights: Developed by the Florida Solar Energy Research & Education Foundation, this flier outlines your solar rights with regards to HOAs.

Questions to consider for multi-tenant buildings before approaching your HOA: developed by Solar United Neighbors