Washington Statewide Rule

Washington Statewide EV Charging Infrastructure Mandates

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Washington requires EV-ready parking in new construction and prohibits HOAs from banning EV charging stations, establishing baseline requirements that supersede conflicting local rules.

Key Facts

HOA Preemption: RCW 64.38.055
Building Code: EV-ready parking required
Tenant Rights: RCW 19.28.281
Accessory Use: Allowed in parking zones

Source: Washington State Legislature

Full Breakdown

RCW 64.34.073 and RCW 64.38.055 prohibit condominium and homeowner association governing documents from banning the installation of EV charging stations on units or limited common elements where the owner has the right to install them. The state building code, adopted under RCW 19.27, requires EV-ready or EV-capable parking spaces in new multifamily and commercial construction. RCW 19.28.281 allows tenants to request landlord permission to install charging stations. Counties and cities must permit EV charging as an accessory use in zones where parking is allowed.

Violations & Penalties

HOAs or landlords that unreasonably deny EV charging installations may face civil penalties and be required to pay attorney fees in enforcement actions brought by unit owners or tenants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Washington HOA prohibit me from installing a Level 2 EV charger?

No. RCW 64.38.055 voids HOA rules that prohibit EV charging station installation, though the HOA may impose reasonable restrictions on placement, aesthetics, and electrical safety standards.

Are new apartment buildings in Washington required to have EV charging?

Yes. The Washington State Building Code requires a percentage of parking spaces in new multifamily construction to be EV-capable or EV-ready, with conduit and panel capacity for future chargers.

Sources

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Washington HOA prohibit me from installing a Level 2 EV charger?

No. RCW 64.38.055 voids HOA rules that prohibit EV charging station installation, though the HOA may impose reasonable restrictions on placement, aesthetics, and electrical safety standards.

Are new apartment buildings in Washington required to have EV charging?

Yes. The Washington State Building Code requires a percentage of parking spaces in new multifamily construction to be EV-capable or EV-ready, with conduit and panel capacity for future chargers.