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Can You Put Solar Panels on a Townhouse in Florida?

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Thinking about adding solar panels to your Florida townhouse? Good news—you can. But there’s a catch. While Florida law protects your right to install solar at your Tampa townhouse, Homeowners Associations (HOAs) still have a say in how it happens. So, you’ll likely need to jump through a few hoops before getting the green light. Here’s what you need to know:

Florida Law Is on Your Side

Florida isn’t just the Sunshine State in name—it’s one of the best places in the country for solar energy. And thanks to the Florida Solar Rights Act (FSRA), your HOA cannot outright ban you from installing solar panels.

But here’s where it gets tricky. HOAs can enforce reasonable restrictions on placement and appearance. That means your HOA may try to dictate where your panels go, how they look, and whether they’re visible from the street.

HOA Rules: What They Can (And Can’t) Do

Wondering what your HOA can and can’t do regarding your decision to switch to solar? Your HOA can:

  • Require that your panels be installed in a way that blends with the roof’s aesthetics.
  • Suggest placement locations—as long as they don’t make your system inefficient.
  • Have an approval process for solar installations.

Your HOA cannot:

  • Ban solar panels outright.
  • Force you to put them in a location that reduces their effectiveness.
  • Demand that you conceal them in a way that adds cost or lowers performance.

Florida law ensures that solar panels must be allowed within 45 degrees east or west of due south, meaning you can maximize energy production no matter what your HOA says.

Townhouse vs. Condo: Know the Difference

Not all attached housing is the same when it comes to solar rights. You need to know whether you’re truly in a townhouse or a condo.

  • If you live in a townhouse, you own the roof, meaning solar is an option (as long as you follow HOA guidelines).
  • If you live in a condo, the roof is considered shared property, and installing solar panels may require full HOA board approval or a legal agreement with other owners.

Townhouse owners have more freedom when it comes to solar—but you still need HOA approval before starting the installation process.

Steps for Getting HOA Approval for Solar Panels

Wondering how you can get the approval for solar panels from your HOA? Here’s our guide on getting the process started:

  1. Read Your HOA’s Covenants & Guidelines: Check your community’s rules to see if they outline specific solar policies.
  2. Work With a Solar Provider Who Knows HOA Rules: Solar Bear of Tampa has experience handling HOA approvals, making the process much smoother.
  3. Submit Your Application: Most HOAs require a formal request with design plans, which your solar provider can help prepare.
  4. Push Back (If Needed): If your HOA denies your request in a way that violates Florida law, you can challenge it. In some cases, legal assistance may be necessary.

Yes, You Can Go Solar in a Townhouse—Call Us to Get Started

Florida law is on your side. Your Tampa HOA may have some say in how your system looks, but they can’t stop you from installing panels that actually work. So, want to cut your electric bill and power your home with the Florida sun? Solar Bear of Tampa can help you tackle the HOA approval process and install a system that works for you. Get started today by calling us at (727) 471-7442—your townhouse is ready for solar!