Why HOAs review exterior changes
HOAs typically review exterior modifications to maintain community appearance and property values. Solar is simply one of many improvements that may require approval — it's not homeowner-versus-HOA by default.
What Florida homeowners should know
Florida Statutes § 163.04 addresses this directly. It provides that no deed restriction, covenant, declaration, or similar binding agreement may prohibit or have the effect of prohibiting solar collectors, clotheslines, or other energy devices based on renewable resources from being installed on a building.1
That protection is not unlimited, and the distinction matters. The same statute provides that a homeowners’ association may determine the specific location where solar collectors are installed on the roof — but only within an orientation to the south, or within 45° east or west of due south, and only if the determination does not impair the effective operation of the collectors.1
In plain English: your association generally cannot use its approval process to prohibit solar outright, but it may have a say in placement within those statutory limits. The statute also provides for the award of costs and reasonable attorney fees to the prevailing party in litigation arising under it.1
Read the statute and your own governing documents, and seek legal advice if you have questions about your specific circumstances. HomeSolarGrid provides education, not legal advice.
The architectural review process
- Submit plans.
- HOA reviews the request.
- Questions or revisions may be requested.
- Approval is issued.
Common HOA questions
- Will the panels be visible from the street?
- Where will conduit be installed?
- Will roof color matter?
- Can equipment be screened?
Requirements vary by community.
Preparing before you apply
- Roof information
- Site plans
- Equipment specifications
- Installer drawings
- HOA application forms
Preparation often makes the process smoother.
Federal consumer guidance also flags this step: the FTC advises homeowners to check whether their homeowners’ association has rules about solar installations before moving ahead.2
What people get wrong
SolarFit™ asks whether your home is part of an HOA so your personalized report can include HOA planning guidance, questions to ask your association, and helpful resources before requesting proposals — so you feel prepared, not surprised.
Related guides
- Getting StartedIs Solar Right for Your Home?
The factors that determine whether solar may be a good fit for your specific home — from roof to utility to long-term plans.
- Your HomeShould You Replace Your Roof Before Installing Solar?
How roof age, condition, and remaining lifespan affect the timing of a solar installation — and when waiting is smarter.
- Planning Your ProjectHow to Compare Solar Quotes
The line items that matter, the assumptions to question, and how to spot a proposal that doesn't hold up.
- Planning Your ProjectSolar Scams Every Homeowner Should Know About
High-pressure tactics, misleading savings claims, and financing traps — with clear guidance on how to protect yourself.
- Costs & IncentivesFlorida Solar Incentives Explained
The federal tax credit, Florida sales and property tax exemptions, and utility programs — in plain English.
Live in an HOA community?
Take the free SolarFit™ Assessment to receive personalized guidance, including HOA-related planning tips before you request installation proposals.
An HOA shouldn’t be viewed as a roadblock. It should be viewed as another step in the planning process.
Sources
The authoritative sources used for the factual claims on this page. Rules, rates, and programs change — always confirm details with the official source before you make a decision.
- 1.Florida LegislatureFlorida Statutes § 163.04 — Energy devices based on renewable resourcesLimits on ordinances and deed restrictions that would prohibit solar collectors.
- 2.Federal Trade CommissionSolar Power for Your HomeFederal consumer guidance on bids, licensing checks, fixed utility charges, leases, and PPAs.