HOA-Friendly Fence Tips
While some consider HOA guidelines to be an ideal part of living in their chosen neighborhood, others find them a little daunting, especially when it comes to building or installing a deck, fence, or other external structure on their own property. It is important to think about the neighbors around you, the travelers and visitors that drive through your community, and the natural surroundings that enhance the beauty of your home. Your trusted friends and experts here at Permacast are shedding more light on why HOA guidelines exist and the many reasons why you should be following them.
Fences and Mother Nature
High winds and severe storms can turn your fence into a safety hazard if it becomes loose, collapses, falls onto structures or property, or even gets lifted and turned into a dangerous projectile. Therefore, it is not uncommon for HOAs to prohibit wooden fences and place heavy guidelines and rules on vinyl fences that may not be durable or equipped for this type of weather.
Fences and Natural Views
If you are a part of a gated community or own a home in a neighborhood with beautiful landscape, views of rolling hills, or scenic waters, there may be restrictions on sheds, decks, and other external features that have the potential to obstruct this scenery. Fence size, location, style, and type might have to follow clear specifications to ensure everyone is able to marvel at nature’s beauty.
Fences and Neighborhood Aesthetic
Oftentimes, small communities and luxurious neighborhoods follow the same style guidelines when it comes to the outside of their homes and exterior aesthetics. From cohesive architecture to uniform fences, your HOA may have strict requirements when it comes to installing a custom fence that veers away from the collective.
Fence Height and Visibility
HOA rules and regulations regarding how tall your fence can revolve around both neighborhood and property aesthetics and visibility. These rules often vary from front to backyards and even side yards and take into consideration if your home is on a corner lot or near an intersection where visibility is imperative for keeping drivers and pedestrians safe.
Consequences from HOAs
If you as a homeowner are not compliant with HOA guidelines, you may be asked to remove or remodel your fence or external structure. In addition, large fines, monthly penalties, and interest fees can be acquired. If left ignored, these monetary consequences can begin to add up exponentially and make it hard for the homeowners to sell or transfer the title of their property. If the situation is serious enough, legal action can be taken, and the homeowner may be forced to hire a lawyer.
How to Avoid Confusion with Your HOA
Before committing to a new project, such as installing a fence for security, privacy, or pet/child safety reasons, reach out to your HOA. They may have an approval process that involves submitting an application or a proposal for your fence. If this is the case, be patient as they may ask you to make minor adjustments or major changes to your plan to fit HOA regulations. If there is no approval process, then this is your chance to ensure you are fully knowledgeable when it comes to the guidelines you are expected to adhere to, permits you may need to obtain, or city requirements to be aware of.
When it all boils down, HOAs exist to ensure your neighborhood continues to be a desirable place for you and your neighbors to live. Considering safety hazards and the overall look and feel of your community, HOA guidelines for fence building are meant to protect you and your community. While it is our clients’ job to ensure their Permacast fences and walls meet HOA standards and regulations, we are always ready and willing to work with you to ensure your PermaFence is top-notch.