Free tool · Washington
Is my HOA fine valid in Washington?
In Washington, WUCIOA lets an association fine only after notice and an opportunity to be heard, and only under a schedule of fines the board adopted in advance and furnished to owners. (WUCIOA fully governs communities created on or after July 1, 2018; older ones may look to RCW 64.38 or 64.34.)
This is general information, not legal advice, and it does not decide whether your fine is valid. For your specific situation, a licensed Washington attorney is the right resource.
Check your notice
Answer a few questions about the Washington fine or violation notice you received, and see how it compares to what the law requires.
What Washington law requires before an HOA can fine you
Governing framework: Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act (RCW 64.90).
The fine must follow a schedule of fines the board previously adopted and furnished to owners — the board cannot improvise an amount.
“in accordance with a previously established schedule of fines adopted by the board of directors and furnished to the owners” — RCW 64.90.405(2)(l)
Statute: RCW 64.90.405(2)(l)
The association may impose reasonable fines only after notice and an opportunity to be heard.
Statute: RCW 64.90.405(2)(l)
The fine must be reasonable and tied to a violation of the governing documents.
Statute: RCW 64.90.405(2)(l)