If you are a pet lover, you may wonder if homeowners association pet restrictions are legal. It often depends on the local or state laws.
With a majority of Americans owning a pet, 62% in 2023, it's important to check with the HOA board about pet restrictions and regulations contained in the governing documents.
When you start on your hunt for a new home, ask your real estate agent about the HOA pet policy of the neighborhoods you like, especially if you have a service animal.
HOAs can make and enforce rules regarding pets in a community. Keep reading for insights on finding the right balance between Panama City Beach, FL residents and HOA pet policies.
Can HOAs Prohibit Pets?
The short answer is yes. HOAs are privately established and operated entities. In most cases, they can restrict pets and/or impose pet rules and regulations.
In California, however, HOAs must allow residents to keep at least one pet. In Florida, there is no such law so HOAs can prohibit pets in a community or limit the number per household.
As of October 1, 2023, the state of Florida stripped the right to prohibit certain breeds by local ordinance. This is a typical HOA restriction.
Other common limitations pertain to the number of pets a homeowner can have, rules on leashing, requiring pet registration, and requiring homeowners to pick up after their pets.
Do Pet Restrictions Help the Community?
Pets are part of the family and those who feel that way would avoid an HOA community with strict pet rules and regulations. If you take a step back, you'll realize that pet restrictions are for the good of the community.
The purpose of the HOA is to preserve property values by maintaining the community and enforcing HOA rules. If a homeowner can have an unlimited number of pets, or keep any kind of animal, the community can get dirty, messy, and loud.
Every homeowner deserves a safe, clean, and peaceful neighborhood when they choose to buy a home in an HOA community and pay HOA fees.
Violating Pet Policies
It is the HOA's responsibility to uphold the rules regarding pets in the neighborhood. Some HOA boards might give a verbal warning or send an official letter for a first-time offense.
If a homeowner continues to violate HOA pet restrictions, the HOA board can impose a sanction or fine. If non-compliance becomes a threat to the safety of the community, the HOA can pursue legal action.
A professional association management company can help the board with legal action against a member of the community.
Rules About Pets in a Community
Now that you know more about HOA rules regarding pets in a community, are you looking at your covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC & Rs)? Do your HOA bylaws need updating?
The pros at PMI Emerald Coast can help. We are a full-service real estate asset management company. We provide professional property management and real estate brokerage services.
Learn more about our services or call us at 850.851.0023 to schedule a consultation.
