In some states, such as California, HOA bylaws are considered public record and must be made available upon request.
Once you buy a home that's part of an HOA, you automatically become a member of the HOA. HOA rules are legally binding, and you must adhere to all rules and regulations in the governing document. Yes, there are bylaws that you may not like, but there are no HOA loopholes.
An HOA's governing documents are usually in the form of a Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) and bylaws. The CC&Rs explain the rules of the HOA community, while the bylaws cover how the HOA operates.
You can contact your local government office for assistance. For example, you can visit the California Attorney General's HOA Consumer Information page for more details. Online Databases: There are online databases and resources that compile HOA documents.
The local law supersedes the rules and regulations of the HOA, meaning that HOAs must ensure they are operating under the law.
What are unenforceable HOA rules? Keep you out of court. Hush up litigation. Discriminate indiscriminately. Enter your home without cause or notice. String you out on the (clothes)line. Fine you for fun. Change rules on the fly. Demand you take down your dish.
Is there any way to get around HOA rules? While you can propose rule changes through proper channels, there's no legal way to simply ignore or “get around” the HOA's covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) that you agreed to when purchasing in the community.
— Every association of homeowners shall be required to register with the HLURB. This registration shall serve to grant juridical personality to all such associations that have not previously acquired the same by operation of the General Corporation Law or by any other general law.
Exact steps to take to fight HOA fines: Research Your HOA's Regulations and Guidelines. Understand Your Rights as The Homeowner. Contact Your HOA. Prepare Your Appeal. Attend Your Appeal Meeting. Await the Decision.