HOAs, Parking and Space Restrictions
Everyone who owns a car and uses it daily knows how important a good, reliable parking spot is. It’s the first driving action you do at the beginning of your day and its your literally your last stop at the end of the day. Developments typically zone 1.5 spaces per unit/house. With this in mind, HOAs will struggle to accommodate all the coming and going, just given the math of how many spaces are built initially.
Often times a parking enforcement company is chosen by the board to issue permits and remove vehicles. Be sure to follow those rules closely – HOAs are not in the habit of refunding parking, towing, or booting fees and since there must be uniform enforcement, there is not much room for appeal or exceptions. Similarly, parking management companies are generally extremely scrupulous when it comes to documenting who and why they are taking action – in short, if you got towed or booted there is a very high chance you are in violation of a rule or policy.
HOA Parking Tips
Managing parking, spaces, and use restrictions can seem straight forward, but there is much more to it than first meets the eye. Here are some tips and facts about HOA parking:
1. Use Restrictions
Many HOAs have use restrictions on parking, this can include your own parking spot and garage. Use restrictions include no major repairs (oil changes, or something you would need to get under the vehicle to address, etc). This is to keep the maintenance of the lot to a minimum and to ensure the space is not being used for commercial purposes. Other use restrictions can include: no long-term parking (cars must be moved every 48-72 hours), spot rentals, commercial vehicles (other than an emergency vehicle like a police car, fire engine or ambulance) or a size limit on the vehicle. Be sure to check your governing documents for use restrictions.
2. Deeded Parking
In HOAs with deeded parking, often owners have the right to their space as it is personally owned. If an owner encounters an issue with their deeded spot, they can reach out directly to parking enforcement, present the deed that matches the parking spot, and have the vehicle removed. If an owner rents their unit, make sure that deed is available to the renter as they may need it.
3. Assigned Parking
In HOAs with assigned parking, the HOA controls the parking as a part of the limited common elements. If an assignment table is available, make sure you have that on hand in case of an issues with the space. It will function as your “deed”, proof of ownership/authorized use. You may need to go through your board for parking enforcement if the space is assigned.
4. Maintenance Restrictions
While owners have a right to their spaces, there are times when the HOA can restrict parking for the purpose of maintenance. This can be either an emergency (a fire truck might need that spot, regardless of who owns it) or for a scheduled event like power washing, paving, or line striping. Be sure you are checking in with the HOA for updates, calendars, or notices for these types of events.
5. Parking Rules
All parking rules must be written and distributed when you bought your home or when they are changed. CAP Management posts rules and regulations on each HOA’s website. If you need a copy of parking rules and regulations, access them online or contact your property manager or the property coordinator at service@capmanagement.com.