Seattle, WA HOA Rules: Architectural Review (2026)

RCW 64.90.510 — Regulatory authority — Limitations — Governing documents — Association may adopt certain rules. (1)(a) An association may not prohibit display of the flag of the United States, or the flag of Washington state, on or within a unit or a limited common element, except that an association may adopt reasonable restrictions pertaining to the time, place, or manner of displaying the flag of the United States necessary to protect a substantial interest of the association. [...] (2) An association may not prohibit display of signs, including outdoor signs, regarding candidates for public or association office, or ballot issues, on or within a unit or limited common element, but an association may adopt reasonable rules pertaining to the placement and manner of those displays. (3) The association may not prohibit the installation of a solar energy panel on or within a unit so long as the solar panel: (a) Meets applicable health and safety standards and requirements imposed by state and local permitting authorities [...]. (4) The association may not prohibit a unit owner from storing containers for municipal or private collection, such as compost, garbage, and recycling receptacles, in any private garage, side yard, or backyard reserved for the exclusive use of a unit. However, the association may adopt and enforce rules requiring that such receptacles be screened from view and establishing acceptable dates and times that such receptacles may be presented for collection. [...] (10) An association may adopt rules that affect the use or occupancy of or behavior in units that may be used for residential purposes, only to: (a) Implement a provision of the declaration; (b) Regulate any behavior in or occupancy of a unit that violates the declaration or adversely affects the use and enjoyment.