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How do homeowners associations regulate property use in planned developments?
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Apartment buildings under construction in Cambridge, England.
Homeowners associations (HOAs) regulate property use in planned developments by establishing and enforcing a set of community rules designed to maintain standards and protect property values. When you purchase a property within an HOA-governed community, you typically become a member automatically and are legally bound to follow these regulations.12
The board of directors, often supported by an architectural control committee, oversees compliance with these standards. Common areas of regulation include:1
- Property Maintenance: Requirements for lawn care, such as grass height, and the general upkeep of the home's exterior.12
- Architectural Modifications: Many HOAs require prior approval before homeowners can change their home's paint color or add structures like fences, decks, or sheds.12
- Usage Restrictions: Rules may limit the number of vehicles allowed on a driveway, prohibit certain types of animals, or restrict the use of a home as a short-term rental.12
- Aesthetics: Regulations may forbid visible items like laundry lines or dictate the appearance of garage doors.12
Failure to comply with these rules can result in fines or citations issued by the board or an outside management company.13