Washington HOA Limits: Solar, Flags & Political Signs (WUCIOA RCW 64.90.510 / HOA Act RCW 64.38.033, .034, .055)

For WUCIOA communities, RCW 64.90.510 provides that "an association may not prohibit the installation of a solar energy panel," "may not prohibit display of the flag of the United States, or the flag of Washington state," nor prohibit signs regarding candidates or ballot issues, though reasonable time/place/manner rules are allowed. For older HOAs, RCW 64.38.055 says "the governing documents may not prohibit the installation of a solar energy panel" (with placement limits; it expires January 1, 2028); RCW 64.38.033 bars prohibiting "outdoor display of the flag of the United States"; and RCW 64.38.034 bars prohibiting "outdoor display of political yard signs" before any primary or general election. These are state-law floors that supersede conflicting covenants.

An HOA rule or covenant that flatly bans solar panels, the U.S./Washington flag, or pre-election political signs is unenforceable to that extent. Owners may rely on these statutes to defend against fines or forced removal, though reasonable placement/size rules still apply.