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.
Yes, an HOA (Homeowners Association) can impose restrictions on the type and number of pets allowed in a household. HOAs operate based on community guidelines and bylaws, which homeowners agree to when purchasing property within the association.
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.
HOAs often forbid or strictly limit the number of animals residents can have. You may be allowed no dogs, or only one dog, or up to two dogs so long as each one weighs less than 35 pounds, or only dogs that belong to certain breeds. Cats, birds, and other pets may be similarly limited or restricted.
Florida adopted a new dangerous dog law that went into effect on October 1, 2023. This new law prevents local governments and public housing authorities from adopting policies or ordinances that designate a dog as dangerous based solely on its breed, size, or weight.
Florida Prohibits Public Housing Policies that Restrict Dogs Based on Breed, Size, or Weight.