Solar Panel Rules in Spokane, WA (2026)
Solar panel installation rules, mandate status, HOA restrictions, and permit process for Spokane, WA.
Spokane, WA does not currently have a solar installation mandate. Solar panels are a permitted use on residential and commercial properties subject to standard building permit requirements. Property owners in Spokane must obtain a permit before installing solar panels. HOA restrictions on solar are limited by state law. Spokane offers permit review for residential solar installations. Below you will find the current solar mandate status, HOA rules, permit process, and any historic district restrictions that apply to solar installations in Spokane.
Solar Mandate Status
No Solar Mandate in Spokane: Spokane does not currently have a solar installation mandate for new or existing construction. Installing solar is voluntary and subject to permit requirements. Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) may apply — consult a tax professional for current incentive information. Spokane's drier climate (Eastern WA, rain shadow of the Cascades) makes it more suitable for solar than Seattle. Avista Utilities is a regulated investor-owned utility serving Eastern Washington and northern Idaho — different from the deregulated Western WA markets. Spokane's lower housing costs mean solar payback periods are comparable to Seattle despite slightly lower electricity rates.
HOA Restrictions
HOA Restrictions on Solar in Spokane: Washington RCW 64.38.055 restricts HOAs from prohibiting solar installations that comply with reasonable standards. HOAs may impose aesthetic requirements that do not significantly impair operation or increase cost.
Permit Process
Permit Process in Spokane: Spokane Planning electrical permit required. Avista Utilities interconnection agreement required for grid-tied systems. Spokane receives significantly more sunshine than Seattle — approximately 169 sunny days vs 144 in Seattle. Avista's net metering program offers bill credits for excess generation. Washington State's sales tax exemption on solar equipment applies throughout the state including Spokane.
Historic District Considerations
Historic District Considerations in Spokane: Spokane has historic districts in the Browne's Addition neighborhood and downtown. Contact Spokane Planning for solar installation requirements in designated historic overlay zones. If your property is located in a historic district, contact the City of Spokane Planning Department before designing your solar system — placement restrictions may affect system output.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Spokane property?
Yes. Washington HB 1337 (2023) requires Spokane to allow at least 2 ADUs per single-family lot by-right, without owner-occupancy requirements. ADUs are limited to 1,000 sqft. No owner-occupancy requirement. Spokane has updated its Municipal Code to comply with state law. The permit must be processed ministerially. Contact Spokane Planning or Building Services for specific requirements.
How is Spokane different from Seattle?
Spokane and Seattle are both major Washington cities but are very different places. Spokane is in Eastern Washington, 280 miles east of Seattle across the Cascade Mountains, which create a rain shadow making Spokane dry and semi-arid. Seattle receives 37 inches of rainfall per year; Spokane gets 17 inches but 50 inches of snow. Seattle's median home price is roughly double Spokane's. Avista Utilities serves Spokane's electric and gas needs — completely different from Seattle City Light or Puget Sound Energy. Spokane's economy is driven by healthcare, education, and government rather than tech.
Who provides electricity in Spokane?
Avista Utilities provides both electric and natural gas service to Spokane. This is different from most of Western Washington, which is served by Puget Sound Energy or municipal utilities like Seattle City Light. Avista is a regulated investor-owned utility headquartered in Spokane. For solar installations, you'll need both a permit from Spokane Building Services and an interconnection agreement with Avista.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Spokane?
Yes. Short-term rentals are allowed in Spokane with a license ($150/year). Spokane's STR market benefits from tourism (outdoor recreation, Gonzaga athletics, conventions at the Convention Center), university visitors (Gonzaga, Eastern Washington University, WSU Medical School), and sports tourism (Hoopfest, Bloomsday). Washington State Hotel-Motel Tax and Spokane lodging taxes apply to all STR rentals.
Is solar worth it in Spokane compared to Seattle?
Solar is actually more productive in Spokane than Seattle due to Eastern Washington's drier, sunnier climate. Spokane has approximately 25 more sunny days per year than Seattle. While Spokane's electricity rates may be lower than Seattle (reducing the dollar value of each kWh), the higher solar production can offset this. Avista offers net metering. Washington State's sales tax exemption on solar equipment applies throughout the state. A solar installer can provide a site-specific production estimate.
Source: Spokane Building Department — Solar Panel Permits. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source