Attorney Kelly Elmore outlines Indiana's solar panel legislation to Carmel community

In the heart of Carmel's city hall, a pivotal discussion unfolded as Kelly Elmore, a principal at PSN Law, addressed the City Council on June 3, 2025. The focus of the meeting was the solar panel legislation passed by the Indiana legislature, a topic that has sparked interest and concern among residents across the state.

Elmore began by clarifying the intent of the law, which was originally enacted in 2022. It aims to address complaints from homeowners who faced obstacles when trying to install solar panels due to restrictions imposed by their homeowner associations (HOAs). Many residents had been denied permission based on existing provisions in their community's governing documents. The new legislation provides a pathway for homeowners to seek approval for solar panel installations, but it does not guarantee automatic approval.

Under the law, homeowners must navigate a detailed process to obtain permission. They are required to submit comprehensive plans and specifications for their proposed solar panel installations, similar to what is needed for construction projects. This includes information about the vendor, property boundaries, and even the color of the solar system. Once the necessary documentation is prepared, homeowners must gather signatures from their neighbors, achieving a level of approval that mirrors the requirements for amending community governing documents, often set at 67% or 75%.

Elmore noted that despite the law's introduction, only a handful of homeowners have successfully completed the process since its enactment. This highlights the challenges residents face in navigating the approval requirements, which can be daunting and complex.

In addition to the solar panel legislation, Elmore mentioned the recent approval of a rental cap ordinance by the city council, indicating ongoing efforts to address housing issues within the community. She also invited attendees to an upcoming mayoral roundtable, where local leaders would discuss HOA-related topics, further emphasizing the city's commitment to engaging with its residents on important community matters.

As the meeting concluded, it became clear that while the solar panel legislation offers a potential avenue for homeowners, the path to installation remains fraught with challenges. The council's discussions reflect a broader commitment to balancing community standards with the growing interest in sustainable energy solutions.