Bill > H3996

This bill aims to strengthen solar energy access rights in Massachusetts by modifying zoning laws and homeowners' association (HOA) regulations. Specifically, the bill requires that local authorities prove any potential damage to public health, safety, and welfare in court if they want to restrict solar system installations, effectively raising the legal bar for limiting solar energy projects. The legislation also prohibits HOAs from unreasonably refusing or delaying the installation of solar energy systems or structures that facilitate solar energy collection on roofs. While HOAs are still permitted to impose reasonable restrictions on solar installations, they cannot arbitrarily block homeowners from implementing solar technology. This bill represents an effort to remove barriers to renewable energy adoption at the residential level by ensuring homeowners have more freedom to install solar systems, which can help reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable energy practices.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3996