Washington Statewide Rule

Washington HOA Solar Panel Protections and Reasonable Rules

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

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.

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

Source: RCW 64.38.055 - HOA solar panel installation protections

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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Washington HOA Solar Panel Protections and Reasonable Rules

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Full Breakdown

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.