City of Sebastopol - Solar Access
Quick Summary
If you own or are buying into a newly subdivided parcel in Sebastopol, the city can require solar easements so your lot keeps access to sunlight for solar panels, solar water heating, or passive solar design. This helps protect your ability to install and benefit from solar without a neighbor's future building or trees blocking your sun. The protection is established during the subdivision approval process rather than something you apply for separately.
AI-generated summary • Updated 7/12/2026
Program Details
- Program ID
- 1108
- Last Updated
- 10/30/2023
Eligibility
Program Summary
As a condition of approval of a property subdivision parcel map, the City of Sebastopol has the right to ask for dedication of solar easements for the purpose of assuring that each parcel or unit in the subdivision receives sunlight for any solar energy system. Sebastopol also has the right to place restrictions on vegetation or building that would interfere with solar access. These easements can be required as long as they do not reduce allowable densities or the percentage of a lot that can be occupied by a structure according to applicable zoning laws. The easements do not apply to condominium projects subdividing airspace in an existing building.
Contact & Resources
Please verify current program details with the administering agency before making any financial decisions.