HOA Design Law, State by State
Architectural guidelines sit on top of state law — and the same design standard can be fully enforceable in one state and partly void in another. Start with your state below, or open the full 50-state comparison to see how every jurisdiction treats solar, EV charging, and water-wise landscaping.
State-specific deep-dives
In-depth breakdowns of the statutes that shape architectural review in each state. More states are added regularly.
A firm statutory right to solar under A.R.S. §33-1816 — but no explicit xeriscape protection, which trips up many desert communities.
The Davis-Stirling Act regulates the review process itself, with strong carve-outs for solar (§714), EV charging (§4745), and low-water landscaping (§4735).
The 2024 reforms tightened Chapter 720. Solar (§163.04) and Florida-friendly landscaping are protected; EV rights differ between HOAs and condos.
The full 50-state comparison
Search and filter every state by region and statutory framework, and see at a glance how each one treats solar access, EV right-to-charge, and native or drought-tolerant landscaping.
Open the 50-state guideWhy state law matters for design guidelines
Three forces decide whether your architectural standards hold up.
Statutory framework
Some states regulate HOAs in detail — including review timelines and notice — while others leave nearly everything to the CC&Rs.
Preemption carve-outs
State law often overrides guidelines on solar, EV chargers, and water-wise landscaping. Rules that ignore these expose the board to liability.
Climate & risk overlays
Strong standards reflect local conditions — wildfire defensible space, hurricane and wind, snow load, or water conservation.
Need guidelines that fit your state?
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Start a conversationDisclaimer: This page is a general informational overview compiled June 2026 and is not legal advice. HOA statutes and preemption laws change frequently and vary by locality. Always confirm the current law with a licensed community-association attorney in the relevant state before drafting, adopting, or enforcing governing documents.