Yard Work in an HOA: What Do I Need Approval for?

Living in a neighborhood with an HOA can have its benefits, such as maintaining property values and preserving the overall aesthetic appeal of your community. 

However, it also means adhering to certain rules and regulations. When it comes to yard work in your HOA, do you know what you need approval for?  

Whether you are planning to start a new project or make changes to your yard, seeking approval from your HOA is a key step. Ignorance of HOA regulations can lead to disputes and potential fines.

In this blog, we will explain who manages yard regulations in your HOA community, common landscaping rules and regulations, how landscaping impacts your property values, and more! 

Who Manages HOA Yard Regulations? 

Yard regulations are typically managed by your HOA board secretary. Board members are responsible for creating and enforcing guidelines for the maintenance and appearance of yards within your community. 

The board will typically collaborate with homeowners to establish these regulations, considering factors such as landscaping, lawn care, and decorations or structures. 

As a homeowner, you can get involved in the regulation-making process through meetings, surveys, or feedback sessions to confirm that the guidelines are reasonable and acceptable to your community. 

Your HOA board's role is to ensure that all homeowners comply with the guidelines. Consequences for not following the yard regulations may include fines, warnings, or even legal action in extreme cases. 

By actively overseeing yard regulations, your HOA board can keep a cohesive and visually appealing community for you and your neighbors to enjoy. 

Common Landscaping Rules and Regulations 

Common landscaping rules and regulations implemented and enforced by HOAs typically include certain landscaping rules that make sure the yards within your community are appealing and uniform.  

A well-landscaped community promotes a sense of pride and investment among homeowners and provides a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors. 

Understanding what you need approval for in your HOA can help you avoid any potential violations or conflicts. 

In addition, by carrying out these common rules, your HOA can help keep a safe and pleasant environment for everyone in your community. 

Below, we have constructed a list of common regulations that many HOAs have regulations for.  

1. Keep a certain height for grass and hedges.  

We recommend reviewing your individual HOA rules and regulations to find the height requirement for maintaining your grass and hedges.  

This is important because the height and upkeep of your grass and hedges contribute to safety concerns if they become overgrown.   

2. Make sure your garden and flower beds are well maintained.  

Overgrown vegetation can obstruct sightlines and pose tripping hazards, while unkempt gardens can attract pests and vermin. 

3. Trees and bushes cannot obstruct sidewalks or roadways.  

4. You must get any sign you place in your yard approved before usage.   

5. Restrictions on tree removal.  

6. Restrictions on the types of plants or flowers you have in your garden.  

Certain plants or flowers may attract undesirable gnats or animal infestations. Some examples include poison ivy, crimson thyme, pennyroyal, bamboo, and more! 

7. Installing hardscape features such as fences or retaining walls. 

If you want to learn how you can balance HOA Regulations with seasonal decorations, click here! 

How Does Landscaping Affect Property Values? 

Landscaping plays a significant role in determining property values. 

Well-kept yards and gardens greatly contribute to the appeal of a home, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Studies have shown that good landscaping can increase perceived property value by up to 11%, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners. 

Additionally, homes with attractive landscaping tend to sell for a higher market value compared to those with neglected outdoor spaces. 

Several reasons contribute to this phenomenon, all of which revolve around the concept of curb appeal. 

Curb appeal refers to the overall attractiveness of a property when viewed from the street. It plays an essential role in maintaining property values and creating a positive impression in a neighborhood.  

In an HOA, curb appeal is often regulated through specific rules, guidelines, and approval processes.  

Adhering to landscaping guidelines will help increase property values within your community as it adds to the overall aesthetic appeal and desirability of the neighborhood. 

Adhere to Landscaping HOA Rules with Management Plus 

At Management Plus we can be an invaluable resource for your homeowners' association to adhere to landscaping HOA rules.  

By utilizing Management Plus, you can be sure that your landscaping is always in compliance with the rules and regulations of your community.  

From regular maintenance to addressing issues promptly, Management Plus can help maintain the aesthetic appeal of your community while also preventing any potential violations. 

With our expertise and dedication, we can help your association achieve and maintain a beautiful and harmonious outdoor environment for all residents to enjoy. 

How can Management Plus make your HOA work for your community? Click here to start the conversation today!  

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