Washington's RCW 64.38.055 and RCW 64.90 limit how Kirkland homeowners associations can restrict rooftop solar, protecting reasonable installations from outright bans while allowing design guidelines.
Homeowners associations in Kirkland cannot categorically prohibit rooftop solar panels. Washington state law at RCW 64.38.055 and parallel sections in RCW 64.90 (the Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act) restricts HOA, condo, and common interest community rules that prohibit or effectively prohibit the installation of solar panels on a homeowner's roof. Associations may adopt reasonable rules related to placement, color coordination of hardware, preference for roof slopes not facing the street, and safety review, but those rules cannot significantly increase cost or decrease energy production. Written architectural review guidelines are common and generally enforceable as long as they allow a working system. If a Kirkland HOA denies a solar application, the homeowner should request the denial in writing with references to specific CC&R provisions and then consider mediation or a civil action. Homeowners must still secure all city and state building and electrical permits; HOA approval does not replace government permits. Condo owners of top-floor units with exclusive roof use may have broader rights than limited common element roofs. Legal advice is recommended for contested cases. The Washington State Attorney General provides consumer guidance; reviews by HOA counsel are typical before adopting solar design rules.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
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