Refined association restrictions and roof definitions for solar energy system installations

The amended bill narrows the scope of protections for unit owners installing solar energy systems in condominiums and planned communities. It allows associations to restrict solar installations on detached roofs, so long as they do not outright prohibit them and adhere to reasonable regulatory bounds. The amendments also clarify the definition of a detached roof and exempt freestanding solar systems located on non-association property.

• Sections 2 and 4 (§ 3302(c) and § 5302(c)): Removed 'or restrict' from the general rule, prohibiting unit owners' associations from prohibiting solar energy system installations on detached roofs while permitting reasonable restrictions.
• Sections 2 and 4 (§ 3302(c)(7) and § 5302(c)(7)): Added a provision stating that the solar energy system rules do not apply to freestanding solar energy systems placed on land deeded to an entity other than the association.
• Section 1 (§ 3103): Added to the condominium definition of 'detached roof' that the roof 'is not maintained, repaired or replaced by the association'.
• Section 3 (§ 5103): Added to the planned community definition of 'detached roof' that the roof is not designated as 'controlled facilities' in the association's governing documents.