Bill strengthens condo owners’ ability to install solar power systems.

 

 

[view:node_ad=5]Governor Schwarzenegger has signed a bill authored by Assemblyman Cameron Smyth that prohibits Home Owners Associations (HOAs) and Common Interest Developments (CIDs) from barring homeowners from installing solar energy and solar water heating systems.

 

“I am very pleased that I received such great bi-partisan support on this significant piece of legislation,” said Smyth.  “With Californians facing record heat waves, the ability to utilize solar power is a very important option for homeowners.”

 

Civil Code 714 currently prohibits CIDs/HOAs from including language in their declarations and other recorded documents that bans the installation of solar energy systems.  However, the prohibition in CC 714 does not include the governing }documents/operating rules of a CID /HOA.  This bill clarified the ambiguity to guarantee that these documents are included in the CC 714 prohibition.  

 

“The solar power option is truly a win/win for the people of California.  It will allow them to reduce their energy costs while at the same time helping the environment.”