Garden State Balcony Solar Act
Garden State Balcony Solar Act – By Chuck Graziano
On June 30, 2026, the NJ Legislature passed the Garden State Balcony Solar Act (S-2368/A-4836), which provides for the placement of portable solar generating devices on balconies or patios, provided they meet certain restrictions, which are included in the legislation. This new law appears to be part of the State’s effort to lower energy costs for homeowners by providing them with a means of producing their own clean energy for personal use.
On a vote of 79-0-1 in the Assembly and 40-0 in the Senate, the act requires that the portable solar generating device meet five standards:
1) They must have a maximum output of 1200 watts.
2) They must be designed to be connected to the electrical system through a standard 120 volt outlet.
3) They must be connected on the customer’s (unit owner/tenant’s) side of the electrical meter.
4) They must meet current standards of the National Electric Code (NEC).
5) They must be UL listed and certified in accordance with UL Standard 3700 (Safety Standards for Plug-In Solar Systems).
Similar to prior legislation such as the years-old satellite dish law and the EV charging station law, Community Associations and Landlords may not unreasonably restrict the installation of these systems within the unit, including balconies and patios, but may adopt reasonable regulations with respect to size, placement and manner of placement. While balconies and patios are generally not considered part of a unit in a condominium, it appears that like the satellite dish and EV charging station laws, the legislation is intended to include these limited common elements as permitted locations.
The act takes effect six months after enactment.
Wilkin Management Group tracks trends and changes in the industry on behalf of our clients and we will continue to watch for any regulations or updates that would be of interest on this new law.
UPDATE – September 2026
On September 1, 2026, Governor Mikie Sherrill signed the Garden State Balcony Solar Act (S-2368/A-4836) into law. Effective March 1, 2027, the law will allow New Jersey condominium and HOA residents to use qualifying portable solar devices on balconies, patios, and other permitted exterior areas.
Qualifying devices must:
- Produce no more than 1,200 watts.
- Connect through a standard 120-volt outlet.
- Be located on the resident’s side of the electric meter.
- Meet applicable electrical, building, and safety standards.
Community associations may no longer enforce rules that completely prohibit these devices. However, boards may adopt reasonable requirements governing their size, location, installation, and placement. Associations may also require owners or tenants to indemnify the association for property damage or injuries caused by negligent installation, maintenance, or use.
Before the law takes effect, boards should consult association counsel, review their governing documents, and establish a clear policy addressing placement, safety, common elements, documentation, and owner responsibility.