Seattle, WA HOA Rules: Architectural Review (2026)

Architectural review in Seattle HOAs is conducted by Architectural Control Committees (ACCs) established through each association's declaration. WUCIOA (RCW 64.90) requires that all committee meetings, including architectural review meetings, be open to owners. Associations must maintain written architectural guidelines and apply them consistently across all owners to avoid selective enforcement claims. Under RCW 64.90.510, associations may regulate the use, maintenance, repair, replacement, and modification of common elements and units, but restrictions must be reasonable and applied uniformly. WUCIOA protects the right to display the U.S. flag and limits restrictions on certain political signs during election periods. Associations must provide written notice of any architectural denial, including the specific provisions violated and the basis for the decision. Seattle does not impose municipal-level architectural review beyond its own building permit and zoning requirements, which apply independently of HOA rules.