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Washington Statewide Rule

Washington HOA Solar Panel Protections and Reasonable Rules

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Key Facts

HOA statute
RCW 64.38.055
Condo/WUCIOA statute
RCW 64.90.510
Shielding limit
10% performance loss max
Expiration
RCW 64.38.055 ends Jan 1, 2028

Summary

Washington RCW 64.38.055 voids homeowner association rules prohibiting solar panel installation, allowing only reasonable placement rules. RCW 64.90.510 gives the same protection to condominium and WUCIOA communities. The RCW 64.38.055 protection expires January 1, 2028.

(1) The governing documents may not prohibit the installation of a solar energy panel by an owner or resident on the owner's or resident's property as long as the solar energy panel: (a) Meets applicable health and safety standards and requirements imposed by state and local permitting authorities; (b) If used to heat water, is certified by the solar rating certification corporation or another nationally recognized certification agency. Certification must be for the solar energy panel and for installation; and (c) If used to produce electricity, meets all applicable safety and performance standards established by the national electric code, the institute of electrical and electronics engineers, accredited testing laboratories, such as underwriters laboratories, and, where applicable, rules of the utilities and transportation commission regarding safety and reliability.

Source: RCW 64.38.055 - HOA solar panel installation protectionsView official code

Full Breakdown

RCW 64.38.055 makes void and unenforceable any HOA governing document that prohibits installation of a solar energy panel. Associations may impose reasonable rules on placement and dimensions, but may require shielding of a ground-mounted panel only if the shielding does not prevent economic installation or degrade performance by more than ten percent. RCW 64.90.510 extends the same protection to condominium and WUCIOA communities. RCW 64.38.055 is set to expire January 1, 2028. Aggrieved owners may seek injunctive relief and recover attorney fees.

Violations & Penalties

HOA enforcement of prohibited solar restrictions exposes the association to injunctive orders, voiding of restrictive covenants, and mandatory attorney fee awards to prevailing homeowners under RCW 64.38.055(3).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Washington HOA require panels on the back roof only?
An HOA may set reasonable placement rules, but RCW 64.38.055 bars ground-mounted-panel shielding rules that degrade performance by more than ten percent, and it cannot prohibit installation outright.
What if my HOA ignores Washington solar protection law?
You may sue under RCW 64.38.055 for injunctive relief voiding the restriction. Prevailing homeowners are entitled to recover reasonable attorney fees and litigation costs.

Sources

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