Now, for the first time in 34 years, pit bulls are once again legal in all of Florida. On Oct. 1, House Bill 941 went into effect in Florida, prohibiting governmental public housing authorities from banning dogs based on their breed, weight or size. The law also overturned remaining breed bans by local governments.
In California, for instance, associations can't have a no-pets policy. ing to Civil Code Section 4715, HOAs must allow homeowners to keep at least one pet. Next, homeowners should check their association's governing documents.
Generally speaking, the HOA has the right to determine the number of pets allowed in their community (or the number of pets allowed in each home) and the type of pets permitted.
The HOA cannot impose pet restrictions on these animals. They are not allowed to refuse certain breeds, weights, or sizes. Service animals are also allowed in all areas of the property. As standard practice, the HOA can ask for service animal documentation.
Many HOAs maintain a website where governing documents are posted. To find HOA rules and regulations online: Navigate to the HOA's official website. Look for sections labeled “Documents,” “Governing Documents,” or “Rules and Regulations.”
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.