HI HB1879

Establishes solar shade control protections in Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 196 to prevent trees and shrubs on adjacent properties from blocking sunlight to solar energy systems.

Prohibits trees or shrubs planted after solar collector installation from casting shadows greater than 10% of the collector's absorption area between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Requires solar collector owners to notify adjacent property owners by certified mail no more than 60 days before installation, using a standardized notice form with installation details and contact information.

Allows solar collector owners to bring civil actions within 2 years for injunctive relief or actual damages (including attorney fees) if adjacent property owners fail to remove or alter violating trees after written notice.

Exempts trees or shrubs planted before solar installation, replacements of pre-existing trees removed for health/safety/environmental reasons, and any vegetation subject to county tree preservation ordinances that conflict with this state law.