Washington Solar Permit and Local Approval Limitations

RCW 64.04.140 declares that the economic and environmental benefits of solar energy are in the public interest and authorizes privately negotiated solar easements to protect access to sunlight. RCW 64.38.055 voids HOA governing documents that prohibit solar panels on an owner's property, allowing only reasonable placement rules; RCW 64.90.510 extends the same protection to condominium and WUCIOA communities. Cities and counties may require building and electrical permits and apply the Washington State Energy Code, but the association protections make covenant-based solar bans unenforceable.

HOA enforcement of prohibited solar restrictions exposes the association to injunctive relief and attorney fee awards, with covenants deemed void and unenforceable to that extent.