Solar Energy in Kirkland, WA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Kirkland or are thinking about moving there, solar energy are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Kirkland has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of solar energy, and some of them might surprise you.

Panel Permits

Kirkland allows only ground- or roof-mounted solar collectors in residential zones. Ground-mounted units are capped at six feet tall and must sit behind the front facade of the home, per KZC 115.137.

Key details: Allowed mounting types: Ground or roof only. Ground-mount height limit: 6 feet above grade. Ground-mount location rule: Behind front facade plane. Roof-mount authority: KZC 115.60(2) height exception.

A ground-mounted solar collector installed forward of the required setback plane or above the six-foot height limit is a zoning code violation enforceable under KMC 1.12.045, carrying civil fines of $100 per day for days 1-15, $250 per day for days 16-30, and $500 per day thereafter, up to $50,000 per violation.

HOA Restrictions

Washington's RCW 64.38.055 and RCW 64.90 limit how Kirkland homeowners associations can restrict rooftop solar, protecting reasonable installations from outright bans while allowing design guidelines.

Key details: Key Law: RCW 64.38.055. Condo Law: RCW 64.90. Allowed: Reasonable design rules. Prohibited: Effective bans. City Permit: Still required.

The Bottom Line

Kirkland's solar energy rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Kirkland is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Kirkland's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.