The Ohio Planned Community Law, found under O.R.C. § 5312.01, regulates the creation, authority, management, and operations of planned communities in the state. ing to this law, all homeowners associations must record a declaration and a set of bylaws with the county recorder's office.
Finally, is an HOA considered a local government? No—HOAs are not considered a local government entity. While they do hold some administrative functions for a community, such as collecting assessments and enforcing rules, they do not possess the authority granted to real government bodies.
Section 5311.20 | Unit owners association may sue or be sued. In any action relating to the common elements or to any right, duty, or obligation possessed or imposed upon the unit owners association by statute or otherwise, the unit owners association may sue or be sued as a separate legal entity.
Technically, an HOA can't evict a homeowner.
Thus, with regard to its organizational structure and general management, an association is subject to the authority of the Ohio Secretary of State. To the extent an HOA's activities implicate any consumer protection statutes, the HOA is subject to the enforcement power of the Ohio Attorney General.
HOA Documents - The association's Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), Amendments to CC&Rs, Bylaws, Lien Notices, HOA Notices, Plats, Maps, and other community documents can be found by visiting the county recorder's office website in which the association is located.
HOAs in Ohio are granted powers to enforce community rules, collect dues, and maintain common areas. They can also impose fines for non-compliance and set regulations for property use. For a detailed breakdown, refer to the Ohio Planned Community Law.
One or more persons must file the Articles of Incorporation with the Ohio Secretary of State. The Ohio Planned Community Law governs homeowners associations in the state. The HOA must record its declaration and bylaws in the office of the recorder of each county where it is located.
The local law supersedes the rules and regulations of the HOA, meaning that HOAs must ensure they are operating under the law.