HOA landscaping rules are designed to maintain the visual harmony and property values within a community. These rules set standards for how homeowners can maintain their lawns, gardens, and other outdoor spaces. Whether it’s guidelines on personal gardens, restrictions on certain types of furniture, or rules about tree removal, understanding these landscaping requirements is essential […]
Pedestrian Safety in the Community
Pedestrians are vulnerable road users with a high risk of catastrophic injury or death in motor vehicle accidents. Pedestrian safety is everyone’s responsibility. Drivers have a duty to follow traffic laws and use reasonable care to avoid hitting pedestrians. City planners and governing authorities are responsible for providing and maintaining safe infrastructure that promotes pedestrian […]
Five Tips for End of Summer Lawn Care
As summer fades, your lawn may show signs of stress from heat and drought. Transitioning into fall is the perfect time to revitalize your grass and prepare it for cooler weather. End-of-summer lawn care is crucial for promoting healthy growth as the cooler months approach, ensuring your grass can bounce back and stay vibrant. While […]
HOA Housekeeping 101
The word “housekeeping” may call up images of laundry, dusting and vacuuming. But, in an HOA community, the word takes on a new meaning. The kind of housekeeping HOAs deal with on a regular basis has more to do with maintaining proper waste removal and outdoor neatness in the community. Read the article…………………………….
Who is responsible for trimming overgrown foliage from nearby woods? HOA expert weighs in (FL)
Question: I live in a townhome community and have woods 10 feet from my back lanai. There is a metal fence separating the woods from my patio. The trees/weeds/vines come close to the fence and some trees are over 30 feet high. Some limbs and vines are close to touching my building. Read the article…………………………….
Tips for speed bumps in the HOA
Question: Robert, can you please help with a hot topic at our homeowners association? There are those of us who have a serious problem with people speeding throughout our association. The board has put up speed limit signs and many residents add their own signage, mostly the type that say to slow due to children […]
Green Grass 101: Tips for Maintaining a Lush Lawn All Summer Long
You work hard to make sure your lawn looks its best, having that perfect lawn is key to a beautiful neighborhood. Unfortunately, summer heat can ruin all that effort quickly if you do not take the right precautions. This article has tips to keep your community beautiful and green all summer long. Read the article…………………………….
Tips for Maintaining Your HOA’s Common Areas
The common areas of a community are for all residents to use, and everyone in the community should treat these spaces with care. However, it’s the association that is primarily responsible for maintaining these areas. But what exactly does this maintenance entail? In this blog, we’ll cover the basics of HOA common areas as well […]
HOA Landscaping: Understanding the Board’s Role
Landscaping is an important part of every community. Not only do neatly manicured lawns, well-maintained trees, and beautiful flowers improve the overall aesthetics of the neighborhood, but they also help boost property values. As a result, the HOA’s responsibility for maintaining the landscaping of the community’s common areas is one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. […]
IL HB5296 (IL)
Creates the Homeowners’ Native Landscaping Act. Provides that an association shall not prohibit any resident or owner from planting or growing Illinois native species on the resident’s or owner’s lawn, with certain requirements. Provides for an Association to be able to adopt reasonable rules and regulations governing native landscapes, with certain requirements. Defines terms. Effective […]
Smarter, Greener Landscaping: Friendly to the Planet— & The Community
Any community looking to create and/or maintain a landscaped area these days ought to consider integrating smarter, greener practices and products to maximize environmental benefits, minimize overuse of resources, and sustainably provide beauty, respite, and outdoor activities to members. Today’s multifamily landscaping is not only about aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces; it also plays a vital […]
Landscape rebates decrease for HOAs, businesses, multifamily properties in 2025 (NV)
The Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) announced on Tuesday that landscaping rebates will be decreasing in 2025 for homeowners associations, businesses, and multifamily properties. The Water Smart Landscapes Rebate is a program that pays properties to convert their lawns to water-efficient landscaping as part of water conservation efforts. Read the article…………………………….
People and Plants: To weed or not to weed
To weed or not to weed. Is that the question? Perhaps it was for Shakespeare’s gardener. It is also the question when you have a strict homeowners’ association. Our last house was on a couple of acres and the only plants that would grow in the pasture were salsify and mullein, which the HOA vehemently […]
HOA leaders tell how they transformed neighborhood with water-saving landscaping — and secured rebates for the projects
While many homeowners associations in America stand between residents and eco-friendly, water-wise updates, one HOA has gone the opposite direction by making money-saving and environmentally conscious upgrades to common areas. For Paul Morsen and Richard Theisen, the president and the treasurer of the Hampton Bay Homeowners Association, converting to water-wise plants was “a no-brainer.” As […]
Tree Care & Maintenance: Keeping Your Biggest Landscaping Elements Healthy
Trees provide us with many benefits, from the obvious to the not-so-obvious. Whether your community is an urban high-rise surrounded by hundreds of others, or a sprawling suburban development with acres of grounds, its trees are an integral part of the landscape—one that we often take for granted, but which requires specific, dedicated care and […]
Construction underway to fix sinkholes that have plagued Phoenix condo complex (AZ)
Most people don’t like to hear the sound of construction but for people who live at a north Phoenix condo complex, it’s music to their ears. People who live at the Parkside Condominiums at Bell and Cave Creek roads sent us photos of construction being done to fill a handful of sinkholes in the area. […]
‘We want the ticks gone’: Organizers calling for action against state parks “no mow” policy (NY)
The West River Homeowners Association called for action against the New York State Parks “no mow” policy to prevent ticks from latching onto children and dogs along the West River Greenway Trail. Chris Russell, a member of the organization, wants the grass along the trail in Grand Island to be completely cut down. Read the […]
The low-maintenance, eco-friendly lawn that will still impress your neighbors
This year, a Tasmanian yard that hadn’t been watered in 10 years and featured a dead brushtail possum won the title of ugliest lawn in the world. The contest, organized by the island of Gotland in Sweden, rewards those who turn over their yards to nature to save water and change the world’s perception of […]
Sinkhole saga at Phoenix condo complex could soon be over (AZ)
People fed up with a growing sinkhole at the Parkside Condominiums on Bell and Cave Creek Roads are feeling optimistic. The HOA board, the VP, and the community manager for City Property Management held a meeting outside the complex Thursday night to announce that repairs for the sinkhole would begin next week. Read the article…………………………….
Understanding Landscaping Architectural Requirements for Co-owners
When it comes to maintaining the aesthetic and functional integrity of shared properties, understanding the landscaping architectural requirements is crucial for co-owners. Whether you are part of a homeowners association (HOA), a condominium association, or any other type of residential community, staying informed about these regulations can help you avoid legal pitfalls and ensure your […]
Aliso Viejo residents claim herbicide spraying near their homes is making them sick (CA)
Back home after the walk, McCuan emailed Mission Landscape, under contract by the Aliso Viejo Community Association (AVCA), asking what was being sprayed at Canyon View Park. The following day, after McCuan had spent six hours in her backyard digging up roots and planting native plants for Monarch butterflies, a reply arrived from Mission’s vice […]
Landscaping and Covenant Enforcement (CO)
With spring being in full force and summer being just around the corner, we wanted to remind all Associations regarding policies, covenant enforcement and good practices as it relates to landscaping. Read the article…………………………….
Trees keep falling in Cherokee Co. neighborhood, homeowners worry with every storm (GA)
Cherokee County homeowners say with each rolling storm they sit with bated breath because of trees randomly falling on top of homes. “If a bad storm comes through those trees could fall right down,” Chris Frymyer said. O’Neal Wilburn showed Channel 2 Investigative Reporter Ashli Lincoln the damage to his bedroom when a tree fell […]
Tree Care & Maintenance: Keeping Your Biggest Landscaping Elements Healthy
Trees provide us with many benefits, from the obvious to the not-so-obvious. Whether your community is an urban high-rise surrounded by hundreds of others, or a sprawling suburban development with acres of grounds, its trees are an integral part of the landscape—one that we often take for granted, but which requires specific, dedicated care and […]
Good light, bad light: HOAs find out brighter isn’t necessarily better (AZ)
As he cruised up one street and down another, Grahame applauded some light fixtures as he groaned aloud about others. His nightly excursions have increased of late. Grahame is the outreach specialist for Southern Arizona Chapter of DarkSky International, and homeowner associations all over Green Valley have been inviting him into their neighborhoods to evaluate […]
7 Traffic-Calming Devices To Slow Speeding In Your HOA
Speeding cars on private roads is a widespread concern that can result in serious consequences. In fact, speeding in residential areas is one of the most common complaints to local police stations across the country. While your homeowners’ association (HOA) may be able to implement several measures to combat speeding, traffic-calming devices can effectively reduce […]
Waging War on HOA Weeds
Why is it that the plants you want to keep green and living always brown and wilt, while the weeds you try to kill flourish and drive you nuts? It’s a problem that plagues every yard, in every community, no matter in what part of the country you live. While the problem is inevitable, there […]
How to Fix the Roads in your Condo or HOA: Increase Assessments or A Special Assessment District? (MI)
The majority of new residential condominium and subdivision developments in the State of Michigan are established with private roads. When a new condominium project or subdivision is established with private roads, the roads are typically identified as a “common element” or a “common area” and are owned collectively by all members of the applicable condominium […]
HOA Winter Preparation: Getting Your Community Ready for the Cold Season
To any planned community, HOA winter preparation is vital. The winter season, especially in some states, can be very harsh. Pipes can freeze over and burst, while snow can quickly pile up and cause traffic problems. A competent HOA board would do well to get ahead of the winter months by preparing the entire association […]
How thirsty bluegrass lawns became the default for homeowners associations in Colorado (CO)
Some Colorado HOAs have started moving the needle, while state legislators prod others into water-wise landscapes; plus, a history of how we arrived at a certain idea of landscape perfection. Read the article………………………………..
Home Owner Association Snow Removal: Your Questions Answered (PA)
It is November 15, and temperatures are forecast to reach almost 70 degrees later this week. Naturally, I am thinking about snow removal for condominiums and homeowners associations. Even though snowfall was almost nonexistent during the winter of 2022-23, boards need to prepare for the upcoming season and revisit some of the questions we discuss […]
Navigating the Legal Snowdrift: Ensuring a Solid Snow Removal Contract (OH)
As winter arrives, associations and community association managers must prepare for the inevitable task of establishing smooth and safe snow removal operations. While hiring a professional snow removal service is essential, paying close attention to the language contained in these contracts is equally crucial. Unclear wording can result in legal complications piling up as rapidly […]
Loudoun HOAs Join Forces to Fight Invasive Species (VA)
Loudoun homeowner’s association presidents and board members showed up in force at the Board of Supervisors meeting last night in a coordinated effort garner funding for a program designed to help remove invasive insects and plants. Read the article………………………………….
“Xeriscape Bill” [SB 23-178] (CO)
Have you heard of the recent “Xeriscape Bill” [SB 23-178] that was signed into law at the end of May? This new bill overrides pre-existing HOA guidelines that restricted residents from installing xeriscape, artificial turf, and vegetable gardens in their yards. The intent of the bill is to promote water-wise landscapes. Read the article………………………………..
South Charlotte HOA chops down tree, now protected by UDO (NC)
The city said because the rule recently changed, it’s working to lay a new foundation from the ground up. It has focused on education and not a penalty. Read the article………………………………………
Residents of Stonebrook not all happy with street paving assessment (MI)
A proposed project to resurface the roads in the Stonebrook subdivision isn’t meeting with rave reviews from many of its residents who are unhappy with the cost of the special assessment The homeowner’s association for Stonebrook, located at the southeast corner of Irish and Atherton roads, submitted petitions to Davison Township signed by 51 percent […]
Landscaping and Irrigation – Are They Included In Reserve Studies?
When your association decides to commission a reserve study, you may be wondering what components will and will not be included in the capital plan, or, if certain elements can be included. Landscaping and irrigation are both important parts of any community, but are they included in a reserve study? Read the article………………………..
Invasive Plant Kudzu Being Used for Landscaping in North Carolina Home, Neighbors Enraged with HOA Inaction
The invasive plant kudzu was used to transform the landscaping of a North Carolina property. Their neighbors are furious because the HOA took no action to prevent the use of the invasive vine. Read the article………………………..
‘Someone could get sick;’ Painesville neighbors worry smelly pond is health hazard (OH)
A stinky pond is becoming a health concern. Neighbors in Lake Erie Shores say the retention pond in their development wreaks of sewage and is filling up with algae and mosquitos. After getting ignored by their homeowners association, they reached out to the 19 Troubleshooters. Read the article………………………..
What Is Meadowscaping and Can Your Neighbors Handle It?
America’s love affair with the lawn is fading. For generations, the manicured emerald patches that graced front yards were a symbol of the American dream and pride of homeownership. But now many homeowners are ditching their turfgrass for a more natural, eco-friendly greenspace: the meadowscape. Read the article………………………..
How robot lawn mowers in one West Palm Beach community help fight climate change
Named after The Jetsons housekeeper, Rosie, the Husqvarna 550 H Epos autonomous electric mower is outfitted with a wireless control system, satellite mapping and 3-inch-long pivoting razor blades. Read the article………………………..
Benona homeowners still fighting against hemlock invasive (MI)
Some residents of Cobmoosa Shores Association are working to save their hemlock trees from the devastating effects of the hemlock woolly adelgid. Two members of the tree advisory committee at Cobmoosa — Ernie Ryan and Paul Jordan — are working to try to save some of the mightier hemlocks in their subdivision, but they’re also […]
Residents in Richmond Hill neighborhood voice concerns over ‘eyesore’ retention pond (GA)
What residents in the Grove Park neighborhood say was once a beautiful pond, they say is now an eyesore and a safety hazard. The pond, which residents say is so dirty the water is not visible, did not always look the way it does now. Read the article………………………..
Middlesex judge, jury render first known decisions on Japanese knotweed
Japanese knotweed is such a well-known menace in the United Kingdom that, if the invasive species is on your property and you try to get homeowner’s insurance, you’ll be turned away. But in America, the plant is just beginning to creep into the public’s consciousness — and the courts. Read the article………………………..
Mandatory Updates to HOA Landscaping Policies (CO)
Governor Polis signed into law SB23-178, which is a bill regarding landscaping changes using water-wise means. The law will take effect August 9, 2023, and it applies to detached, single family HOAs. Read the article………………………..
Food production in HOAs (OR)
Egg prices were so high in some states at the beginning of 2023 that some people started joking about buying live chickens instead. This way, they could have a personal supply of eggs. But homeowners living in Oregon may soon get that opportunity if they really wanted to try farming their own eggs. Read the […]
HB2298: Community Association Roadway Regulations (AZ)
On April 18, 2023, Governor Hobbs signed HB2298 which amends A.R.S. §33-1818 regarding roadway regulations in a community association. HB2298 requires that a community association with public streets where the CC&Rs regulate on-street parking hold a vote of the members by June 30, 2025 on whether to continue to regulate on-street parking. Read the article………………………..
Peter Rabbit’s Paradise: Senate Bill 23-178 Signed Into Law (CO)
Thanks to Senate Bill 23-178, community associations throughout the state will see a significant increase in the presence of mischievous young rabbits in the coming years. Senate Bill 178 requires planned communities with detached structures – single family home communities – to permit the installation of vegetable gardens (which include flowers, fruit, herbs, and other […]
HOA landscape maintenance provides unique set of challenges (VA)
Autumn Glen is a 52-acre community, composed of mostly senior citizens who prefer to have a lawncare contractor manage their lawn and snow removal requirements. The homeowners have also tasked President Joan Callahan and the HOA Board of Directors to maintain their reputation as a great looking community. Read the article………………………..
Scottsdale homeowners get restraining order against HOA to keep Sissoo trees in neighborhood (AZ)
Tom La Porte has lived in Silverleaf Arcadia for close to five years. He said the HOA has wanted to remove all of the Sissoo trees in the gated community since 2020 because of the reputation these trees have: from damaging roads to underground pipes. Read the article………………………..