Ordinances that define the operations of every homeowner’s association (HOA) are at the foundation of every HOA. Ordinances are laws or regulations enacted by a municipal body, and HOA managers must understand how they work.
In this article, we will explore more information about HOA ordinances and regulations, some common examples, and how they define co-existence among homeowners.
The Development of HOA Ordinances
Every HOA ordinance for homeowners comes from a document called Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), which are rules for members of every HOA community. These rules cover a wide range of topics that define the daily existence of everyone living in an HOA community. HOA ordinances for homeowners are not imposed on any of these members. Instead, the HOA membership and the board of management vote on these regulations. Any new homeowner who joins the association will receive a copy of the CC&Rs.
Common HOA Ordinances for Homeowners
Property Maintenance
HOA ordinances contain a wide range of rules, one of which covers property maintenance. The HOA is responsible for landscaping and the maintenance of other common areas, but it is the sole responsibility of the homeowner to take care of their property. Such maintenance includes mowing lawns, trimming trees on the property, and repairing any damages on the exterior of the home, among others. The rule essentially ensures that no homeowner leaves their home to deteriorate, as that negatively affects the value of property in the neighborhood.
Architectural Design Rules
HOA ordinances govern the architecture of every home in the community. The rules define the exterior color for homes in the community, aesthetics, window shutters, and porches. If a homeowner adds a second story to a single-story home, it can go against the HOA’s architectural rules.
Guest Guidelines
Purchasing a home in the HOA makes one subject to rules such as no illegal renting, no noise, and adherence to parking rules. In some HOA ordinances, a visitor can only stay for a maximum of seven nights, and others can stay longer with special written permission.
Noise Rules
The HOA also regulates noise. The association has specific quiet hours for the community and decibel levels that allow the elimination of excessively loud music and loud parties.
Home Business
HOAs govern the type of businesses that homeowners can do from their premises, and online businesses are allowed as long as the homeowners do not bring their clients to the HOA premises.
Do You Need Help Enforcing HOA Ordinances?
As an HOA manager, you should understand a number of ordinances before you can enforce them. If you are feeling overwhelmed, Enforcer Pros can help you with HOA enforcement in Florida.