HOA Restrictions: Redmond vs Seattle
How do hoa restrictions rules compare between Redmond, WA and Seattle, WA?
Redmond and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Redmond, WA
King County
Washington RCW 64.38 and RCW 64.90 limit HOA authority to ban solar devices. Redmond HOAs can set reasonable aesthetic rules but cannot flatly prohibit residential solar installations.
View full Redmond rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Washington state law (RCW 64.38.055) prohibits HOAs from banning solar installations, and Seattle's building code supports solar access with height exemptions, making it one of the most solar-friendly jurisdictions.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redmond | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| State law | RCW 64.38 and 64.90 | - |
| HOA ban | Generally unenforceable | - |
| Aesthetic rules | Reasonable rules allowed | - |
| City review | No aesthetic block | - |
| State Protection | - | RCW 64.38.055 prohibits HOA solar bans |
| HOA Authority | - | May impose reasonable aesthetics but cannot effectively prohibit solar |
| Enforcement | - | Anti-solar CC&Rs are void and unenforceable under state law |
| City Support | - | No city aesthetic restrictions beyond building code safety |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Redmond FAQ
Can my Redmond HOA stop me from installing solar?
No, Washington RCW 64.38 prohibits HOAs from unreasonably prohibiting residential solar, though reasonable placement rules are allowed.
What if my CC&Rs say no roof additions?
Those provisions are generally unenforceable against solar collectors under state law; consult an attorney for disputes.
Seattle FAQ
Can my HOA prevent me from installing solar panels in Seattle?
No. Washington state law (RCW 64.38.055) prohibits homeowners associations from banning solar energy installations. Your HOA may impose reasonable aesthetic guidelines, such as preferred placement locations, but they cannot effectively prevent you from installing solar panels or make the installation economically infeasible.
What if my HOA denies my solar installation request?
If your HOA denies a solar installation in violation of state law, the restriction is void and unenforceable. You may proceed with the installation after obtaining required city permits. Homeowners may also recover attorney fees in legal actions to enforce their solar access rights under RCW 64.38.055.
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