How to Handle HOA Parking Violations
Parking problems are one of the top complaints in HOA communities. Whether it’s a car in a fire lane, an unregistered vehicle left for weeks, or guests overstaying their welcome, these issues can frustrate everyone fast, especially if the board doesn’t have a clear, consistent process in place.
The key is to start with rock solid rules.
Make sure your parking policies are clearly written, reasonable, and enforceable. They should cover things like red zones, guest parking, unregistered vehicles, and oversized vehicle storage. If your documents are vague or outdated, revise them before enforcing anything.
When a violation happens, confirm the rule is actually being broken.
Document the issue with photos or notes, and begin with a courtesy notice. If it continues, follow up with a formal letter and, if needed, a hearing or fine, always following due process. Towing should be the last resort and only used when absolutely necessary and legally supported.
If the violator is a guest, communication still goes through the homeowner. Make sure you have a system for guest permits or registration forms to help avoid confusion.
See below for a sample guest parking policy sent out to homeowners by Remington HOA.
If your community keeps facing the same issues, it may be time to update the rules. Adjust for current needs—more cars, more guests, or more turnover—and make sure everyone knows what’s expected.
Key Definitions that might help:
Parking Violations: Actions that break the HOA's parking rules, such as parking in fire lanes, leaving unregistered vehicles, or exceeding guest time limits.
Parking Policies: Clearly written HOA rules that regulate where and how vehicles may park, including red zones, guest spaces, and vehicle size limits.
Unregistered Vehicle: A car not listed with the HOA or lacking proper license and registration, often subject to removal or fines.
Courtesy Notice: An initial warning sent to a homeowner or resident informing them of a parking violation in a non-punitive way.
Formal Letter: A written notice that follows a courtesy warning, typically outlining the violation, consequences, and next steps if not corrected.
Due Process: The proper, legally required steps an HOA must follow when enforcing rules, including notices, hearings, and the opportunity to respond.
Guest Permits: Temporary passes or forms used to register non-resident vehicles in order to control and monitor guest parking.
Oversized Vehicle Storage: Regulations that limit the parking of large vehicles like RVs, trailers, or commercial trucks within HOA boundaries.
Rule Revision: The process of updating HOA documents to better address current community needs, often in response to recurring violations or resident feedback.
