In election years, political debates are not just limited to the candidates. Debates often arise within homeowner associations over restrictions on signage that may limit an owner’s ability to place signs within the community. An HOA can prohibit signs of any kind, including political signs, in the common area. Read the article…………………………….
No peace symbol! Eagle Crest HOA cracks down on unauthorized flags (OR)
No peace symbols. That’s the message one man in Eagle Crest got from his homeowner’s association in what he calls a newly enforced ban on most flags. Ken Bauman was notified this week his tie-dyed peace symbol flag did not meet the requirements, in a letter sent from The Ridge at Eagle Crest Owners Association. […]
Q&A: Signs, Signs, Everywhere a Sign (MA)
Q. As election season approaches, I am anticipating—in light of the current divisive nature of our society—that we’re going to see some political battles arising in our condominium community. Over the past year or so, we’ve seen some residents posting flags or signage in their windows related to support for Ukraine, and more recently, Israeli […]
Aesthetic Rules Balancing Community Value with Individual Rights
In the world of single-family homes, property owners can do pretty much whatever they want when it comes to the look of their place. They can paint their house bright purple, for instance. Or display Christmas or Halloween decorations that are so bright or scary they may keep the neighbors up at night. Clearly, the […]
East Vancouver couple prevail over homeowners association on when political signs can go up before election (WA)
Homeowners associations can no longer dictate when residents put up political yard signs thanks to a Vancouver couple’s lawsuit. Under Washington state law, homeowners associations cannot ban people from displaying political yard signs before an election. But the law doesn’t specify how long before. That spurred an argument between Janet and Phil Landesberg and the […]
Navigating Election Year in Your Community
Maintaining harmony within your community can be difficult during the best of times. But when election season rolls around, things can get especially tricky. With emotions running high and a wide variety of opinions among homeowners in your neighborhood, keeping things peaceful can feel like a true challenge. During these times, clear community guidelines can […]
Nebraska bill seeks to prohibit homeowners associations from banning political signs
Nebraska homeowners would be allowed to display political signs on their property during election season without restriction from their homeowners association, under a new bill in consideration in the Legislature. Read the article…………………………….
Evaluate Your Sign Restrictions Now To Avoid Legal Issues In the Future (OH)
As we are approaching the end of winter, it is a perfect time for boards to review their association’s governing documents and understand whether signs may be displayed outside homes in their community. With the warmer months ahead, many owners begin renovating and enter into agreements with contractors that may require them to display advertisements […]
Condo owner wonders about enforcement regarding flags, posters of support hanging in windows (FL)
Question: I live in a community governed by an HOA, and I have a question regarding flags and posters in windows. As a result of the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, many of our residents put American and Israeli flags on their homes as a show of support. Many of them also put […]
Do Condominium Boards Have the Right to Restrict Signs? (MA)
QUESTION: Our condominium association has a rule barring the display of signs in common areas or in locations visible from common areas. Some board members say we are required to make an exception for political signs. Is that true? Read the Q&A………………………………..
HOA tells homeowner to remove rainbow flag (NV)
Q: I live in a large homeowners association community in Las Vegas. Recently the HOA pressured a homeowner to remove a rainbow flag. Apparently, a conservative resident was offended by a sign of inclusion and harmony. The reason given was that “statement” flags are prohibited. Read the Q&A…………………………
Homeowner fights HOA after being told Christmas-themed skeleton display wasn’t ‘seasonally appropriate’ (CO)
Kyle Sarazin fought the law, and this time he won. The Sterling Ranch resident decided to do something different with his Christmas display this year, converting his 12-foot yard skeleton into Santa Claus and turning the smaller skeletons from his Halloween display into Santa’s reindeer. Read the article……………………………
St. Louis Mom Battles HOA ‘Grinches’ to create Christmas wonderland for her son (MO)
A St. Louis mom aimed to bring a little Christmas cheer to her subdivision and her son. This year, she decorated her front yard and surrounding property with over 100 inflatables and decorations ranging from gnomes, Santas, reindeer, and Disney characters. Read the article……………………………..
Let it snow: Texas community creates winter wonderland
While nestled in the heart of Spring, Texas, where snowfall is a rare sight, the Windrose Community Association has found a creative way to bring the joy of winter to its residents. For years now, this close-knit community has been making cherished memories by building an annual winter wonderland and snow hill for the children. […]
Highlands Ranch gingerbread house gets national attention (CO)
On ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight,” families from across the country compete to win $50,000 and a large light trophy. With plans to film in early November, Hazard had to get approval from the Highlands Ranch Community Association to put his lights up early. He said the association and his neighbors were extremely supportive. […]
Holiday Safety Tips for Your Home or Condo
The holiday season is almost upon us! You’re likely making plans on how to spend time with your friends and family. Candles, Christmas trees, and holiday lighting are traditionally a part of festive winter celebrations no matter where you live, but as you enjoy the festive time, extra precautions should be taken in order to […]
How Your Board Can Balance HOA Rules with Holiday Decor
The holidays are a time of bright light displays, inflatable santas, addictively repetitive melodies, and family visitors. The holiday season can mean something else entirely, though. For many HOA board members and homeowners, it can mean a fight! Holiday decorations are oftentimes in violation of the community’s guidelines and governing documents, but how well are […]
‘Let us be festive’: Surfside Beach family claims HOA removed their Christmas decorations (FL)
Part of a neighborhood is fighting their homeowner’s association to keep their beloved Christmas decorations standing. “Let us be festive HOA,” said one neighbor. “I never imagined Christmas decorations would become an issue. You see homes all over the place decorated with tons of decorations.” Read the article……………………………..
Deck the Halls, Mind the Rules: Navigating Association Decorations Restrictions with Holiday Cheer (MI)
‘Tis the season to stow away the skeletons, pumpkins, and witches, and usher in the festive spirit with twinkling lights, wreaths, and snowmen. As the allure of multicolored lights and decorations brightens the early darkness, residents of condominium associations need to align their festive expressions with community rules. For association boards and property managers, enforcing […]
Can condo corporations put up “Christmas” decorations on common elements? (ON)
We’re fast approaching that most wonderful time of the year, with cheers of joy and good wishes… for most. You see, the holiday spirit is not universally shared by all. To help you get into the holiday spirit (should you be so inclined but in no way obligated to), we decided to revisit this 2021 […]
Political Yard Signs and Political Events (FL)
Unless you share similar political views, your neighbor’s front yard sign supporting a favorite political candidate may be upsetting. Can a Florida community association demand the sign’s removal? A well-crafted and properly adopted board rule prohibiting all signs, as compared to just prohibiting political signs, is likely enforceable with this caveat. Read the article…………………………..
A Neighborly Guide to Enjoying Christmas Lights in Your Neighborhood
The holiday season is upon us, and one of the most cherished traditions is driving around neighborhoods to admire the twinkling Christmas lights. To help you make the most of your neighborhood Christmas light tour, we’ve put together a guide with tips for being a considerate and courteous neighbor during the festive season. Read the […]
Holiday Decorations – Ho, Ho, Ho or Bah Humbug? (FL)
As the holiday season approaches, it is a good time for associations to consider its authority regarding outdoor holiday decorations. Every community is different, and opinions vary about when the holiday decorations should be put up and “how much” is “too much.” Some people want to start decorating for the holidays on November 1, while […]
Creating a Safe and Festive Holiday Season in Your Community
Homeowner’s associations (HOAs) are crucial in fostering a sense of community and maintaining property values. As the holiday season approaches, board members must strike a balance between promoting festive cheer and upholding the guidelines in the governing documents. This article will go over tips to make your community’s holiday season a great one. Read the […]
HOA rules change plans for Paulie’s Penguin Playground new location (KS)
The Paulie’s Penguin Playground Christmas display will not be in someone’s front yard this year, but the long-time holiday tradition will be in Johnson County for one weekend in December. Read the article……………………………
Associations Should Take Smart, Proactive Approach for Festive Holiday Season (FL)
Many communities with associations are replete with activities, private gatherings and general good cheer during the holiday season. To help make this most special time of the year as joyful and harmonious as possible, associations should make considered and intelligent decisions and preparations. Read the article…………………………………
Port Orange Christmas light tradition pits neighbors against HOA (FL)
Dozens of homeowners in the Waters Edge community in Port Orange got results after fighting their Homeowners Association to keep a big Christmas tradition going that all started to support a little girl going through a tough time. Read the article…………………………………
‘Tis the Season for HOAs: Preparing for the Holiday Season (CA)
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Communities across the country come alive with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and the sound of carolers singing their favorite tunes. For homeowners’ associations (HOAs), this time of year presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Read the article……………………………
Washington appellate court hears dispute over state yard sign law
Under Washington state law, a homeowner association can’t ban people from displaying political yard signs before an election. But the law doesn’t specify if there’s a time limit on how long before. Read the article………………………………
Politics on Display: Regulating Political Signs in Indiana HOAs
Election Season is upon us, and with the presidential elections approaching in 2024, it is a good time for Indiana community associations to review their policies with regard to political signs. Many community associations have specific sign prohibitions in their governing documents; however, Indiana Code 32-21-13 makes specific exceptions for political signs during an election […]
The Home Depot 12-foot-tall skeleton’s nemesis: HOAs
The only Halloween legend bigger than the recycled Facebook posts warning about cannabis-infused Halloween candy is Skelly, Home Depot’s 12-foot-tall skeleton. The $300 piece of ghoulish decor has dominated suburban yards, social media, and local news across the country since the hardware store chain released it in 2020. But every hero must have an enemy, […]
Making the Holidays Better for All: A Community Effort
The holiday season is a time when communities come alive with lights, decorations, and a spirit of celebration. Or, at least, it’s meant to be. Unfortunately, holidays can sometimes lead to conflicts and misunderstandings that can create tensions throughout the year. Read the article…………………………….
Irmo mayor at odds with his community association over campaign signs (SC)
The meeting followed Walker, who is on the ballot for re-election Nov. 7, placing campaign signs in his yard and the association deeming it inappropriate. Neighborhood policy dictates that campaign signs may “may display only the politician’s name and party affiliation and possibly his/hers contact information and be displayed no more than thirty (30) days […]
Holiday Decoration Policy (AZ)
As we step into the season of festivities, we have a couple questions for you: Has your association adopted a holiday decoration policy? And does that policy encompass Halloween decorations? Read the article………………………
HOA CC&R’s and Violations: How to Maintain a Balance Between Holiday Spirit & Compliance
Halloween’s nearing, and we’ll all revel in the spirit of the Holiday Season very soon. It’s that time of year that we all look forward to – ‘tis the time to be jolly, indulge in the best food, and put out elaborate decorations. While the idea of beautiful decorations sounds wonderful during the Holiday Season, […]
Homeowners’ association rules for Halloween decorating – celebrate spooky season without going against guidelines
As summer comes to an end and the cold weather arrives, we can begin to get excited about decorating our homes for Halloween. There is plenty of inspiration out there for decorating your homes for Halloween, both inside and outside, including this year’s Halloween trends. Read the article……………………………..
Crafting Holiday Guidelines for Your HOA
As the holidays approach, communities come alive with festive spirit, and preparations to create a warm and inviting atmosphere become essential. Effective signage and decorations play a vital role in transforming streets and neighborhoods and fostering a sense of belonging and joy. Read the article………………………………….
Political campaign sign problems in Archers Court neighborhood (SC)
Mark Passmore said he put up a mayoral election sign in his yard last Thursday, and one day later, he got a letter from his HOA demanding he take it down. Read the article………………………..
Sun City HOA board amends political ban (SC)
The controversy in the Sun City Carolina Lakes (SCCL) community regarding a decision by its homeowners association board to bar campaigning by declared political candidates on association property is being resolved. Read the article………………………..
Tri-State man ‘flabbergasted’ after Pride flag, decorations removed
A Tri-State man is considering filing theft and hate crime charges after he says a neighbor tore down Pride month decorations he had put up. Greg Deitsch lives at the Village of Finneytown condos, where he says condo owners can display big, blow-up decorations during the holiday season. He wonders why he isn’t allowed to […]
Plaque honoring local teen hero who died trying to save another removed by HOA (FL)
In an email, Miami Management, Inc. said, ” At this time, the association has no comment regarding the matter. Sarah Perry, Aiden’s mother was provided a detailed explanation and arrangements made for her to be present, so she could take possession of it when it was removed.” Read the article………………………..
Buckeye home with holiday lights facing violations (AZ)
Jeff Rutt has been putting on “The Lights on Evergreen” since 2019. The Christmas musical light show has won multiple awards from the Verrado Community Association in the past. Read the article………………………..
Court Rules Co-Owner Violated Condo Bylaws by Failing to Remove Holiday Decorations (MI)
Well, it’s that time of year again. Time for the holiday decorations to come out of their various hiding places to be strung across the roof, wound up and around trees, and blown up (by fans) in the front yard. That’s right, it’s time for everyone in the neighborhood to put up their holiday decorations […]
Southbridge family fighting to keep their Christmas light tradition going (GA)
It is common for many to decorate the outside of their homes when the winter holidays approach. In the Southbridge community, the Johnson family spent some time of their first Holiday season in the Hostess City, fighting to keep their tradition going. Read the article………………………..
Remember To Let the Community Know About Rules Regarding Holiday Decorations
The holiday season is upon us. While it’s a special time of year, it can also be a time for more violations and neighborhood disputes. The good news is, HOAs can get ahead of some of these issues by making sure rules and regulations are clearly stated. Read the article………………………..
Regulating Holiday Displays
Regulating holiday displays can be a tricky topic and association boards of directors are well advised to keep certain things in mind when dealing with it. With the holiday season upon us now is a great time to brush up on some important principles when it comes to adopting and enforcing rules regulating the display […]
Condo Column: The giving season
I love Christmas. I really do. Sadly, it seems to be the only time of year when people are allowed to be nice to one another for no reason. You wish someone a Merry Christmas and they actually pause, light up a little bit, say thank you, and give a return Merry Christmas. And each […]
Manager’s Advice: HOA Holiday Decoration Enforcement Tips
The holidays are a fun and exciting time of year, and residents of homeowners’ associations often decorate their houses in celebration of the upcoming festivities. We all know how important it is for families to decorate their homes for the holidays, but we’re also reminded of the rules and regulations that limit such modifications in […]
Nightmare on Redick Street: Neighborhood enforcing rules on homeowner’s attraction (NE)
A Halloween display in northwest Omaha has homeowners on opposite sides of the fence and may have gone too far this year. The homeowner’s association off 103rd and Military Road says problems with parking and people for a holiday attraction have grown over the past five years. A family says they’re just sharing their holiday […]
Why Board Members Need to Understand The Difference Between Religious and Secular Holiday Displays
If your community association installs a holiday display, is that holiday display considered religious or secular? Are Christmas trees, menorahs, Nativity scenes, or the Kikombe cha Umoja (the Unity Cup used during Kwanzaa celebrations) considered religious or secular? How can you tell the difference? Why is the difference so very important to understand? Read the […]