Your HOA Rights as a Homeowner in Washington
Based on RCW 64.90.495 · Last reviewed 2025
Quick reference
$50/violation
$50 per day per violation, maximum $2,000 aggregate per violation unless the declaration authorizes higher fines
10 days
10 days written notice must be provided before imposing a fine
Yes — required
Homeowner must be given opportunity to be heard before the board before a fine is imposed
Not required
CC&Rs may still require reserves
What your HOA can fine you for
In Washington, your HOA's authority to fine homeowners comes from its governing documents — your CC&Rs, bylaws, and any board-adopted rules and regulations. State law sets the outer boundaries (including a $50 per-violation cap), but the specific violations that can be fined, and the fine amounts, are defined in your community's own documents.
Common categories include: landscaping and property appearance, parking, noise, pet rules, short-term rentals, architectural modifications, and common area use. If a violation isn't defined in your governing documents, your HOA generally cannot fine you for it.
Your rights before a fine is imposed in Washington
- Written notice: Washington law requires your HOA to give you at least 10 days written notice before a fine takes effect. 10 days written notice must be provided before imposing a fine
- Hearing rights: Washington law requires your HOA to give you an opportunity to appear before the board before imposing a fine. Homeowner must be given opportunity to be heard before the board before a fine is imposed
- Fine schedule: Most states require the board to adopt and distribute a fine schedule. Your HOA generally cannot fine you for an amount not listed in the adopted schedule.
- Daily accrual: In Washington, continuing violations may accrue $50/day after the initial fine. Address violations promptly to prevent fines from compounding.
What to do if you think a fine is wrong
- 1
Request a hearing
Washington state law entitles you to appear before the board. Submit a written request to the board as soon as you receive the fine notice.
- 2
Review your CC&Rs
Locate the specific rule your HOA claims you violated. If the violation isn't defined in your governing documents, or the fine exceeds what the schedule allows, you have grounds to dispute it.
- 3
Dispute in writing
Send a written letter to the board explaining why you believe the fine was issued in error. Reference the specific CC&R section. Keep a copy of everything.
- 4
Request mediation
Many states, including Washington, offer or require alternative dispute resolution before escalating to litigation. Check your CC&Rs for any mediation clauses.
- 5
Consult an HOA attorney
If the fine is significant or the board is unresponsive, an HOA attorney can review your situation and advise on your options under state law.
Useful tools for homeowners
Are you on the board managing violations in Washington?
LotWize enforces Washington's notice requirements automatically — sending compliant violation notices with the correct cure period and hearing options built into the workflow.
Start 14-Day Free TrialAre you a board member? See the Washington HOA board compliance guide.
Washington board guideThis page provides general information about Washington HOA law from a homeowner perspective — not legal advice. Laws change frequently and may vary by community type, HOA structure, and governing documents. Consult an HOA attorney for advice specific to your situation.