Living in a neighborhood with a Homeowners’ Association (HOA) can offer tremendous benefits—think well-kept common areas, higher property values, and a cohesive community aesthetic. However, these benefits come with higher responsibilities for homeowners. HOA streetscape violations can be a major headache, but many of them can be avoided with the right knowledge and strategy!
Landscaping and Curb Appeal Violations
HOAs mainly exist to keep the landscaping cohesive and tidy throughout a neighborhood. This usually means strict guidelines on grass height, edging, mulch color, and plant choice. Here’s how to avoid pesky landscaping violations:
- Keep your lawn mowed and edged during spring and summer.
- Regularly weed your sidewalks, driveway, and garden beds.
- Only plant HOA-approved trees, shrubs, and flowers.
Neglecting your HOA’s guidelines on landscape maintenance can result in hefty fines and impact your home’s overall curb appeal.
Mailbox and Post Violations
Believe it or not, mailbox issues are one of the most frequently cited elements in HOA violations. Faded paint, rusted posts, non-conforming designs, or damaged structures can all result in costly fines or required replacements. Regularly inspect your mailbox and post for damage or weathering. If you notice damage, replace your mailbox or post with an HOA-approved design to keep your home compliant.
Improper Trash Can Storage
Leaving your trash cans on the curb for too long – or leaving them outside all the time — can easily attract a citation from your HOA. Be sure to bring your trash cans inside the same day as trash pickup. Try to store your trash bins in your garage. A small habit adjustment here can go a long way toward avoiding violations.
Unauthorized Exterior Modifications
Changing the look of your home—even minor adjustments like repainting trim or installing a new light fixture—often requires pre-approval from your HOA’s architectural review board. HOA boards have very strict rules and regulations regarding home design, such as paint, trim, windows, and more. Always check the HOA handbook before beginning exterior work. Reach out to your HOA board for approval on your modification.
Parking and Vehicle Storage Issues
Improper parking is another common violation, especially in communities with limited street parking or clear driveway expectations.
To steer clear of parking violations:
- Don’t park on lawns, sidewalks, or in no-parking zones
- Remove non-operational or expired vehicles from the property
- Store recreational vehicles (RVs, boats, trailers) off-site unless otherwise approved
Parking and vehicle storage rules are in place to keep you and your neighbors safe!
Excessive or Overdue Holiday Decorations
Holiday cheer is encouraged—even by your HOA! However, many enforce time limits on how early and how late you can leave decorations up. For example, your HOA may require all holiday decorations to be removed two weeks after the holiday. Many HOA boards do not allow the use of loud decorations or inflatables, as they may disturb the peace of a neighborhood.
Inappropriate Signage
HOAs often regulate the types of signs you can display—whether it’s for political campaigns, yard sales, or business advertisements.
Before staking that sign in your yard:
- Review the HOA’s signage rules (including size, placement, and duration)
- Use approved sign holders or display methods
- Remove signs promptly after events
Signs that look neat and follow HOA guidelines help preserve the community’s aesthetic while allowing you to support your cause or business.
Street Sign and Community Fixture Damage
Homeowners aren’t typically responsible for damage to shared neighborhood fixtures like street signs or lighting, but reporting them is vital. Broken or faded signs impact the neighborhood’s appeal and can delay emergency response times. If you notice any broken or stolen street signs in your neighborhood, say something! Quick and timely replacement of these signs enhances the overall safety and appearance of the neighborhood.
Pet-Related Streetscape Issues
Even our furry friends can get us in trouble with the HOA. Cleaning up after pets and keeping them on a leash are often essential parts of HOA regulations. Avoid citations by carrying doggie bags and keeping your furry friends on a leash.
Why It Pays to Be Proactive
HOA guidelines are designed to maintain the beauty, safety, and value of your neighborhood. By taking care of common streetscape responsibilities—like keeping your mailbox up to code, landscaping regularly, and following exterior modification rules—you avoid unnecessary headaches and help your home stand out for all the right reasons.
Contact Otto’s Streetscape Solutions Today!
For a comprehensive solution that combines quality, customization, and convenience to enhance your community’s Streetscape, consider contacting Otto’s Streetscape Solutions. Whether you want to upgrade your neighborhood’s mailboxes, signage, or lighting, Otto’s Streetscape has what you need!