What are HOA rules and regulations?
HOA rules and regulations are the day-to-day standards the board adopts to carry out the CC&Rs: where to park, when trash bins go out, pet and noise rules, and how the pool and clubhouse are used.
Rules are easier to change than the CC&Rs, so they’re where most practical details live. Clear, reasonable rules that are enforced the same way for everyone keep the community pleasant and reduce disputes.
What to include
- Purpose and the authority behind the rules
- Parking and vehicles
- Trash, recycling, and storage
- Pets
- Noise and nuisance
- Pools, clubhouse, and amenities
- Exterior changes and maintenance
- Leasing and enforcement
Template preview
Fill in the [highlighted] fieldsThese rules carry out the Declaration and help keep [Community name] safe, attractive, and enjoyable. If a rule conflicts with the Declaration, the Declaration controls.
- Vehicles must be parked in garages or driveways. Street parking is [allowed / not allowed] [between hours].
- Commercial vehicles, boats, trailers, and RVs may not be parked [in view of the street] for more than [number] hours.
- Inoperable or unregistered vehicles may not be stored on any lot or common area.
- Containers may be placed at the curb after [time] the day before pickup and must be stored out of view by [time] on pickup day.
- Pets must be leashed in common areas, and owners must pick up after them.
- Pets may not create a nuisance through excessive noise.
- Quiet hours are [10 p.m.] to [7 a.m.].
- Pool hours are [hours]. Residents must accompany guests, and children under [age] must be supervised.
- Clubhouse reservations are made through [method] and require a deposit of $[amount].
- Exterior changes require written approval from the Architectural Review Committee before work begins.
- Lawns and landscaping must be kept neat and mowed.
- Owners must provide tenant contact information and a copy of these rules to tenants. Minimum lease term: [number] months.
Violations may result in a written notice, an opportunity for a hearing, and fines as set in the Board’s fine schedule, as permitted by the governing documents and [State] law.
Tips for using this template
Rules can clarify the declaration but can’t contradict it.
Rules that are specific and clearly tied to the community’s interests hold up best.
Share them with every owner and tenant, and enforce them the same way for everyone.
Frequently asked questions
Who can make HOA rules?
Usually the board, if the governing documents give it that authority. Some changes may require notice to owners or an owner vote.
What is the difference between rules and CC&Rs?
CC&Rs are recorded and harder to amend. Rules are adopted by the board to carry out the CC&Rs and are easier to update.
Do rules apply to tenants?
Yes. Owners are usually responsible for making sure their tenants and guests follow the rules.