If you are thinking about installing solar panels on the roof of your home in Sacramento, California, you may be worried about what your HOA would say. Rightly so! HOAs are concerned with the aesthetics of the neighborhood, which could interfere with your plans. Therefore, you should be aware of your rights when it comes to embracing solar energy.
History of The California Solar Rights Act
This Act was enforced back in 1978. The gist is that no HOA, public entity, or common interest development can prevent someone from installing solar panels. They may impose some restrictions. As per 2014 revisions, restrictions on a solar energy system are allowed only to the extent to which they do not add more than $1,000 to the cost, or limit the efficiency of the system by 10%.
This Act may be helpful for you to know as, for example, your HOA’s decision to plant a tree or build a structure that would block access to sunlight on your property’s solar equipment would be illegal.
Solar Panels and Your Rights
What if your neighbor’s tree grows too high and prevents the sunlight from reaching your solar panels? This is where solar easements come into play.
To begin with, what’s an easement? This is your right to make some use of land that isn’t yours. An easement could also prohibit the owner of another property from using their land in a way that would come into conflict with your rights.
There are two major types of easements: affirmative and negative. An affirmative easement would give you a non-possessory right to use your neighbor’s land. A negative easement would restrict your neighbor from using their property in some manner.
When it comes to solar easements, these are often negative easements. They would prevent your neighbor from using their property in such a fashion that would make it impossible for solar light to reach your solar panels.
Solar Panels and HOAs
When it comes to getting solar panels installed, you may still need to get permission from your HOA. You might need to send an application for installation, provide documents describing what solar panels you are planning to use, and give an outline of the planned installation process.
At North Valley LLC, we will be happy to help you choose the most cost-efficient panels for your home.
Importance of Solar Panels
Installing solar panels is an incredible way to reduce your energy bills. In fact, as a homeowner, you could reduce your energy bills by up to 62%. You could also contribute to a greener environment. No homeowner should be prevented from harnessing solar energy to help combat climate change.
If you are seeking a reliable contractor in Sacramento, California to install solar panels on your home’s roof or in your backyard, our experts at North Valley LLC are ready to roll their sleeves up. Contact us today for a consultation. Let’s get the sun rolling!
