My neighbor's trees shade my solar panels. Does California's Solar Shade Act protect me?

What the Law Says

California’s Solar Shade Control Act (Civil Code §§ 714–714.1) prohibits a property owner from allowing trees or shrubs they plant or maintain to shade more than 10% of a qualifying solar energy system located on a neighboring residential property during the period of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., solar time. Crucially, the law applies only if the solar system was installed *before* the tree was planted—or before it was pruned or allowed to grow in a way that caused the new shading. It does not apply to commercial systems, systems installed after the tree was planted, or shading caused by natural growth of pre-existing trees that were already present when the solar system was installed. The Act also explicitly excludes trees planted before January 1, 1982, and does not authorize removal of existing trees—only prospective control of future growth or pruning.

Practical Steps

First, document the shading: obtain a professional solar site assessment showing percentage and timing of shade (ideally with a certified solar installer or engineer), and confirm your system’s installation date and the neighbor’s tree planting or major pruning date. Next, send a written notice to your neighbor citing Civil Code § 714 and requesting corrective action (e.g., selective pruning), as courts often require a good-faith effort to resolve disputes informally. If unresolved, you may file a civil complaint in Superior Court seeking injunctive relief (e.g., an order requiring trimming). Note: local ordinances (e.g., some city tree protection laws) may impose additional restrictions, so check municipal codes. Mediation through your county’s dispute resolution program is strongly recommended and often faster and less costly than litigation.

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