HOA Pet Policies: What Every Homeowner Should Know
Let’s be honest, pets are part of the family. But in an HOA setting, that love can turn into frustration fast if there aren’t clear rules in place. Maybe it’s barking at night, someone not cleaning up after their dog, or concerns over aggressive behavior.
That’s exactly why having a written pet policy matters.
What Your HOA Can (and Can’t) Regulate:
HOAs actually have a lot of control over what’s allowed, as long as it’s reasonable and applied evenly. Rules can cover:
- How many pets each household can have
- Breed or size limits (some communities restrict certain breeds or set weight caps like 40 lbs)
- Where pets are allowed, and not allowed (like pools or certain lawns)
- Leash rules, pet waste cleanup, and what counts as a nuisance (like nonstop barking or aggression)
Here’s a quick sample of what a clean, balanced pet policy in your CC&Rs might look like:
“Residents may keep up to two household pets (dog, cat, or bird) per unit. Each pet must weigh under 40 pounds. Pets must be on a leash and under control in common areas. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Any aggressive behavior, excessive noise, or property damage caused by a pet will be considered a nuisance and may result in enforcement actions. Reasonable accommodations will be made for service and support animals, in accordance with applicable laws.”
Pro Tip: Avoid vague language!
At the end of the day, most people just want to enjoy their home… pets included. A clear, fair pet policy helps make that possible.
Key Definitions that might help:
CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions): The governing documents that define HOA responsibilities, including which landscaping areas are covered (e.g., front yards or common areas).
Pet Policy: A written set of HOA rules outlining what types of pets are allowed, limits per household, and behavioral expectations within the community.
Breed or Size Limits: Restrictions set by the HOA on specific dog breeds or maximum weight for pets (e.g., 40 lbs), typically based on safety or space concerns.
Leash Rules: Guidelines requiring pets to be on a leash and under control while in common areas.
Pet Waste Cleanup: A rule requiring pet owners to clean up after their animals to maintain cleanliness and prevent complaints.
Nuisance: Any pet behavior considered disruptive or unsafe, such as aggressive actions, excessive barking, or property damage according to the HOA’s guidelines.
Reasonable Accommodations: Adjustments the HOA is legally required to make for service or support animals, even if they don’t meet regular pet rules.
Service and Support Animals: Animals legally protected under federal and state laws that assist individuals with disabilities and are not subject to standard pet restrictions.
