Seattle, WA HOA Rules: CC&R Enforcement (2026)

Under WUCIOA (RCW 64.90), the association has broad authority to enforce covenants, conditions, and restrictions recorded in the declaration. Before imposing fines or suspending owner privileges, the board must provide written notice of the specific violation and an opportunity for a hearing. Fines must be reasonable, proportionate to the violation, and authorized by the governing documents or properly adopted rules. The association may also suspend an owner's right to use common elements (except access to the unit) for a reasonable period following persistent violations. Enforcement actions must be applied uniformly to avoid claims of selective enforcement. The association may recover attorney fees and costs incurred in enforcement proceedings. Liens for fines may be recorded against the unit but are subordinate to the priority assessment lien. WUCIOA prohibits certain covenant provisions, including those that unreasonably restrict the transfer of units or discriminate based on protected classes.