Last updated: 2025-08-22
New to an HOA? Navigating HOA Rules can feel overwhelming. Your CC&Rs (the community rulebook) and bylaws set what you can change, how approvals work, and what happens if you break a rule. Use this guide to learn the basics, avoid fines, and keep projects moving.
- TL;DR: Read your CC&Rs, bylaws, and policies first.
- Submit ARC/ACC requests before exterior work; most decisions come in 10–30 days.
- Enforcement ladder: notice → hearing → fine → suspension → lien.
- Appeal or respond within 10–15 days when offered.
- Turn on email/text alerts so rule changes don’t surprise you.
Jump to: Common rules · Enforcement · Checklist · Glossary · FAQ
What HOA rules usually cover
- Architectural changes (ARC/ACC): Paint colors, fences, roofs, doors, solar—submit plans first. Track approvals in RunHOA Requests.
- Landscaping & upkeep: Lawn height, weeds, tree trimming, seasonal cleanups. Store policies in your document library.
- Parking & vehicles: Street/guest parking, RVs/boats, commercial vehicles, garage use.
- Noise & nuisances: Quiet hours, barking dogs, odors, trash can timing, short-term rentals.
- Common areas & amenities: Pool hours, clubhouse reservations, guest limits, smoking rules.
How rule enforcement works
- Courtesy/violation notice: What happened, the rule cited, and a fix-by date. Manage notices and photos in RunHOA Violations.
- Hearing opportunity: Share evidence, ask for time, or clarify misunderstandings.
- Fines/suspensions: Daily or per-occurrence fines; amenity access can pause until cured.
- Collections & liens: Unpaid amounts may be sent to collections. Know your rights and timelines.
Disputes & appeals (3 quick steps)
- Respond in writing: Before the deadline, state facts, attach photos/emails, and cite the rule you believe applies.
- Request a hearing/ADR: Ask for a board or committee hearing; if available, use mediation or arbitration.
- Follow up: Get the decision in writing, note any appeal window (often 10–15 days), and comply with conditions.
Checkbox checklist: stay compliant
- Save the latest CC&Rs, bylaws, rules, and minutes in one place.
- Turn on meeting and policy alerts with RunHOA Communications and add dates to your calendar.
- Before you build or paint, submit an ARC request via RunHOA Requests.
- If you get a notice, reply by the deadline and request a hearing if offered.
- After decisions, note any appeal window and keep the written approval.
- Stay involved—elections, proxies, and ballots via RunHOA e-Voting.
- Need a board contact? Use your owner directory or public HOA website.
ARC approval basics (what boards look for)
- Completeness: Application form, site sketch, dimensions, materials, color codes.
- Match to standards: Approved palettes, fence types, height limits, setbacks.
- Neighbor impact: Sightlines, drainage, noise, access during work.
- Timing: Your documents often require a decision within 30 days; get it in writing.
| Rule area | Typical requirement | Practical tip |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior paint | Use approved palette; submit swatches | Upload color codes in your request |
| Fences | Height/material limits; placement rules | Mark the line with flags before review |
| Parking | No boats/RVs in driveways; guest time limits | Ask for guest permits before holidays |
| Landscaping | Weed control; tree trimming schedule | Set monthly reminders in your calendar |
| Amenities | Pool hours; reservation rules | Confirm event rules 7 days in advance |
Mini case: a smooth ARC timeline
Day 0: Submit fence plan with sketch and specs. Day 8: ARC asks for a setback detail; you reply same day. Day 21: Written approval arrives—work can start.
Special topics homeowners ask about
- Reasonable accommodations: Rules must allow reasonable accommodations and modifications for disabilities under the Fair Housing Act.
- Service and support animals: Different from pets; pet rules cannot block valid service or emotional support animals.
- Solar panels & EV chargers: Many states limit HOA restrictions; check local laws and utility programs (see DSIRE).
- Short-term rentals: Some HOAs restrict stays under 30 days; read the rental policy and city rules.
- Collections: If debts are sent to collections, learn your rights via the CFPB.
Glossary: common HOA terms
- CC&Rs: Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions—the binding rulebook for your community.
- Bylaws: The procedures for running the HOA (board powers, meetings, elections).
- ARC/ACC: Architectural Review/Control Committee that approves exterior changes.
Navigating HOA Rules FAQ
Do HOAs need to approve every exterior change?
Most exterior changes need prior ARC/ACC approval. Like-for-like repairs may be exempt. Check your design guidelines for the exact list.
How long can the board take to decide my ARC request?
Your documents usually set a window (often 30 days). Some HOAs treat no response as a denial; always get written confirmation.
Can I be fined without a hearing?
Many CC&Rs require notice and an opportunity to be heard before fines. If you miss the hearing, fines can start or increase.
What if a rule conflicts with fair housing laws?
Federal law controls. Rules and enforcement cannot discriminate. Raise the concern in writing and cite the Fair Housing Act.
How do I challenge a violation I disagree with?
Respond by the deadline, request a hearing, bring photos/emails, and cite the clause you believe applies. Check appeal or ADR options.
Make compliance easy
Keep docs organized with RunHOA Document Library—minutes, budgets, and ARC rules in one place. Track notices and resolve issues faster with RunHOA Violations. Need simpler meeting prep? Try RunHOA e-Voting for proxies and ballots.