California Limits HOA Bans on Efficient Windows

New state laws restrict homeowners associations from blocking energy-saving windows, electric appliances and EV charging stations.

Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Appliances

Gouache-painted editorial illustration of a tall window in a pale wall with a coiled charging cable resting in warm afternoon light. — California Governor signed Senate Bill 908 barring homeowners associations from completely banning energy-efficient windows, with new statutes taking effect in 2027. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should HOAs be allowed to ban energy-efficient upgrades to your home?

California has enacted Senate Bill 908, which bars homeowners associations from completely banning energy efficient windows, along with related bills affecting appliances and electric vehicle charging. The new statutes take effect in 2027.

Why it matters

The laws expand protected home upgrades under the Davis-Stirling Act, giving California homeowners clearer rights to pursue energy-saving improvements despite HOA rules. They also reflect the state's broader push to electrify homes and expand charging infrastructure.

Senate Bill 908 adds a 22nd protected use and Senate Bill 222 adds a 23rd to the Davis-Stirling Act, with a 10% cost or efficiency threshold separating reasonable from unreasonable HOA window rules. The statutory text itself is the source, and the practical effect in disputes remains untested.

The players

California Legislature

The state legislative body that enacted Senate Bills 908, 222 and 1267 amending the Davis-Stirling Act.

The details

Civil Code Section 4754 bars HOAs from completely banning energy efficient window installation and treats all residence windows the same regardless of ownership category. Civil Code Section 4737 prevents HOAs from blocking replacement of fuel-gas appliances with permitted electric models meeting building codes, and Senate Bill 1267 requires EV charger installers to indemnify the HOA for installation losses.

2026: California legislature enacts the three HOA-related bills.
2027: New HOA protection laws take effect.

Roadmap

These bills extend the Davis-Stirling Act, which already protects a list of owner improvements, by adding energy efficient windows, electric appliances and EV charging stations. The changes continue a state pattern of using HOA law to advance home electrification and efficiency goals.

California homeowners in HOA communities may soon be able to install energy-efficient windows and electric appliances that previously faced blanket bans. Owners who make such changes must permanently maintain and repair replaced windows, and associations cannot charge for filing the maintenance agreement.

The takeaway

Homeowners in California HOAs should review their association rules before planning window or appliance upgrades. Understanding the 10% cost and efficiency thresholds can help determine whether a restriction is enforceable.