Five Tips for Managing Parking Rules in HOA Communities

Parking challenges are a common issue for homeowners associations (HOAs), impacting all types of communities. Common parking challenges include:

- Vehicles parked overnight in prohibited areas

- Inappropriate or unauthorized street parking

- Limited availability of parking spaces

- Using spots allocated to other residents

- Guest parking management

- Parking for RVs and boats

- Overnight parking of commercial vehicles

- Non-operational vehicles

- Vehicles leaking fluids

- Unregistered or expired license plates

- Parking in designated handicapped spaces

- Parking in fire lanes

- Parking on landscaped areas

To minimize misunderstandings and violations, consider these five tips for managing your HOA’s parking policies.

1. Understand State and Local Regulations

State laws can significantly influence how HOAs manage parking. For instance, some regions may require vehicle owners to be notified 48 hours in advance to address parking issues, which could involve verbal or written notices or conspicuous postings on the vehicle. In some places, such as California, regulations vary based on whether parking occurs on public or private community streets.

In general, if a vehicle obstructs essential areas like fire hydrants, handicapped spaces or poses a danger to residents’ safety, it may be removed without prior notice. Reviewing local regulations can clarify how parking issues should be addressed in your community.

2. Identify Your Jurisdiction Over Public Roads

Be clear on what authority the HOA holds over roads within your community. HOAs cannot override local or state laws regarding public roads. Even if a public road runs through the community, the HOA may not have the power to issue fines or tow vehicles parked illegally. For such instances, the appropriate city or county authorities should be contacted to address the issue. Should the vehicle pose an immediate threat or block critical areas, it may be towed promptly.

3. Clarify Governing Documents

Ensure that your governing documents outline the parking policy in straightforward terms to prevent confusion among homeowners about the parking regulations. An excessively strict policy can be counterproductive and lead to frustration. A clear parking policy should include:

- The association's authority to enforce parking rules and issue penalties

- Clearly defined rules, including legally prohibited parking areas and specific association guidelines, such as:

- Handicap spaces

- Loading zones

- Fire hydrants

- Guest parking

- Vehicle restrictions

- The board’s ability to grant exceptions

- Procedures and authority for towing, along with the notification process and financial responsibility for related expenses

If any of these elements are absent, updates may be needed. Revisions might be warranted if existing rules are outdated, don't address current issues, or if community changes require new restrictions.

4. Communicate Parking Policies Effectively

Residents should consult the association’s governing documents for guidance on parking and other policies. Often, important HOA documentation gets stored away and forgotten. Rather than relying on residents to remember or check the rules, routinely communicate the parking policies. Use emails, community website postings, or include articles in newsletters. Discussions during HOA meetings can also be beneficial.

5. Collaborate with a Professional Management Company

Partnering with a professional property management company can be advantageous, as they bring knowledge of local and state laws. These firms have experienced staff who can develop and enforce balanced parking policies and help implement communication strategies to ensure all residents are informed.

An effectively implemented parking policy, coupled with awareness among residents, can significantly reduce parking issues and maintain community safety.