Ohio lawmakers have taken action on this issue. On June 14, 2022, the Ohio Legislature passed, and Governor Mike DeWine signed, Senate Bill 61 (SB 61). This law addresses local governments and homeowners’ associations that prevent homeowners from installing solar panels on their homes. Now, even homeowners in single-family developments with HOA rules about solar panels can challenge those rules under the new law. Although more than 60 days have passed since SB 61 became law on September 13, 2022, many Ohio residents still don’t know about their new right to go solar.
A Win for Solar Rights in Ohio
For years, Ohio homeowners have been denied the right to install solar panels because of concerns about aesthetics or restrictive covenants in their homeowners’ association agreements under prior versions of SB 61. However, under the newly amended law, HOAs will have no say in restricting solar energy systems.
The final version of SB 61 did not include a complete update of solar policies. Before 2022, HOAs in Ohio could almost always deny homeowners the right to allow solar access. Many HOAs, even those with official documents like Declarations or CC&Rs, did not mention solar at all. Decisions about solar were mostly left up to the HOA boards. Some big changes were suggested, but they will not happen now.
It may be time to put clear rules about HOA restrictions on solar panels into law, with some limits. The new law removes all HOA restrictions on solar panels, but does not allow HOAs to set unreasonable guidelines.
What the New Law Allows and What It Doesn’t
Under SB 61:
- HOAs cannot ban Rooftop Solar on homes they own.
- They may still enforce reasonable guidelines, such as:
- Placement requirements for safety
- Standards to maintain neighborhood aesthetics
- Rules that do not significantly increase cost or reduce system efficiency
- Homeowners gain a clearer, more predictable approval process.
Homeowners who want solar panels now have legal protections against HOAs that try to block them. HOAs can still enforce reasonable architectural guidelines for the neighborhood.
Why This Matters
As more people across the country choose solar energy, many homeowners have faced limits from HOAs and boards. Now, with SB 61, Ohio homeowners have the right to install solar panels on their homes. Rooftop solar is now a property right in Ohio, not just a privilege.
This shift could:
- Increase residential solar installations statewide
- Reduce energy costs for homeowners
- Support Ohio’s clean energy economy
- Improve grid resilience over time
This law is a step in the right direction for homeowners who want to go solar but feel it’s unfair.
What Homeowners Should Do Next
Many homeowners don’t know if their HOA has a policy on solar panels. You should check your HOA’s rules before starting a solar installation.
- Review your HOA’s updated guidelines
- Request approval using the new legal framework
- You are completing your solar installation with a reputable solar company who are well aware of the changes brought on by SB 61.
- Document all communication to ensure compliance
Ohio homeowners looking to install solar energy systems have new options and protections under changes to a state law.
Common Questions
Can your HOA stop you from installing solar panels? The answer depends on whether you live in a condo, townhome, or single-family home in Ohio. First, check your bylaws and deeds for any solar restrictions. If there are none, your HOA cannot stop you from installing solar panels because of SB 61.
Can An HOA Bar Solar Panels In Ohio? Under SB 61, an HOA cannot bar a solar installation unless solar is specifically regulated in the bylaws or deeds. But otherwise, solar installations are a homeowner’s right and HOAs can no longer block them. (SB 61, Ohio Legislation, Home Owner Association)
Need Help Working with Your HOA?
Some communities already have solar restrictions in place. If that’s the case, you’ll likely need to file a petition before installing panels. We offer resources and guidance to help you through that process.
Castle Energy’s experts have spent years talking with families and HOAs to help them learn about solar energy options for their homes. We are happy to meet with your HOA board, answer your questions, and show real examples of completed solar installations.
