How to Survive 4th of July in your Condo or HOA

People who enjoy a sense of order and clear-cut rules are usually happy living in a community governed by an HOA. Those who aren’t conformists, however, may have a tougher time adhering to an association’s rules, and the occasion of the 4th of July is a great example of when some feathers may be ruffled.

It strikes some homeowners as ironic that the commemoration of America’s independence is regulated by rules and regulations that may limit or even eliminate their preferred method of celebration. However, it should come as no surprise (if all HOA-related documents have been read) that the greater good trumps anything that has the potential to be hazardous.

Here’s some food for thought with respect to celebrating Independence Day in your HOA:

•  It’s quite likely that your HOA documents, in particular the rules and regulations, address the issue of using fireworks within the community. In many parts of the country, it’s illegal for private citizens to purchase fireworks, but even if you live in a place where it’s legal, odds are your HOA will prohibit their use when you’re on the grounds. Fireworks pose a significant hazard to those who set them off, those who may be in proximity to them, and nearby structures — not to mention that they scare small children and dogs. Prohibiting the use of fireworks with a residential community is a perfectly acceptable way to help ensure the safety of all residents, which is one of things the HOA is tasked to do.

• If your community has communal barbecues, they will likely be in high demand on the 4th of July in your Condo or HOA. Follow any reservation policy that may be in place, or if none exists, make sure you don’t monopolize a barbecue (and you leave it clean when you’re done).

• Communities with swimming pools often require residents to complete a reservation form before they invite a group of people over for a pool party. This makes a lot of sense, especially on a holiday, because every pool area has limited space. Follow whatever reservation procedure your HOA has outlined and use good judgment when dealing with what’s likely to be a big crowd — especially making sure to follow posted safety rules

• If you believe someone’s transgression of the HOA’s rules is significant enough to report, know the processes your community has in place to make a report. If management personnel are onsite, or your community has onsite security, you may be able to get the situation addressed immediately, but if your property manager is offsite (and especially if it’s in the evening or on a weekend), it will likely be dealt with after the fact. In the evident you believe something someone is doing poses an imminent danger, your best option is calling the police.

Your HOA is not trying to cramp your style when it comes to celebrating the 4th of July or any other holiday. Remember what you signed up for when you moved into a community that’s governed by an HOA, and know that its rules and regulations are intended to enhance safety as well as home values.

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