Bill > SB120

This bill modifies Maryland law regarding solar collector systems and restrictions imposed by community associations. The legislation defines a solar collector system as a device primarily used for collecting, storing, and distributing solar energy for various purposes like electricity generation and heating. The bill establishes that restrictions on installing solar collector systems are considered unreasonable if they increase installation costs by at least 5% or reduce energy generation by at least 10% compared to the initially proposed installation. Property owners must provide documentation from a certified solar panel design specialist to demonstrate an unreasonable restriction. Community associations are now authorized to prohibit or restrict solar collector system installations in common areas and can establish reasonable guidelines about the number, size, placement, and installation of such systems. Additionally, the bill allows community association boards to have discretion in installing solar collector systems in common areas, provided the installation is not prohibited by other laws. The legislation also maintains provisions for property owners to negotiate solar easements, which must be documented in writing and include specific details about solar access, restrictions, and potential revisions. Importantly, these provisions do not apply to historic properties listed in or eligible for the Maryland Register of Historic Properties. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0120?ys=2025RS