Solar Energy in Bellingham, WA (2026)
2 verified solar energy rules for Bellingham, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Panel Permits
Bellingham is one of the most solar-friendly permit jurisdictions in Washington — the city created the first photovoltaic building permit exemption program in Washington State in 2009. Residential and commercial solar PV is permitted through the Permit Center at 210 Lottie Street under BMC Title 17, which adopts the Washington State Building Code (WAC 51-50 IBC, WAC 51-51 IRC, WAC 51-54 IFC) as required by RCW 19.27. The Washington State Energy Code (WAC 51-11C / 51-11R) is also adopted by reference. Electrical work is permitted and inspected separately by Washington Labor & Industries under RCW 19.28 and Chapter 296-46B WAC. Net metering is administered by Puget Sound Energy under Chapter 480-108 WAC.
Solar Panel Permits in Bellingham
Few RestrictionsHOA Restrictions
Washington state law sharply limits what a Bellingham HOA may do to a solar installation. RCW 64.38.055 declares that the governing documents of a homeowners' association 'may not prohibit the installation of a solar energy panel by an owner or resident on the owner's or resident's property,' subject to applicable state and local permitting and to reasonable rules on placement and manner that do not significantly increase cost or significantly decrease performance. Condominiums get a parallel protection for solar (and a separate EV-charging right) under RCW 64.34.395. WUCIOA Act communities (associations formed July 1, 2018 or later) are similarly governed by RCW 64.90.510.
Solar HOA Restrictions in Bellingham
Few RestrictionsLooking for Whatcom County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Bellingham city rules.
Solar Energy in Whatcom County →