What power does a homeowner’s association (HOA) typically hold?

Homeowners' associations (HOAs) are established to maintain the common areas and enforce the community's rules and guidelines. This authority allows them to impose restrictions on various aspects of living within the community, such as architectural modifications, landscaping choices, and other aspects that contribute to the overall appearance and harmony of the neighborhood. The enforcement of these community rules is essential for preserving property values and ensuring a certain standard of living for all residents.

The power to set rental prices for units lies outside the HOA's typical jurisdiction, as rental pricing is primarily a function of the real estate market and the individual owner's discretion. Creating zoning laws is a role reserved for municipal governments or other governing bodies, not individual HOA entities. Similarly, managing local public services falls under the purview of local governmental authorities rather than an HOA, which focuses specifically on the interests and regulations of its community members. This clarity highlights the unique role of an HOA in maintaining a cohesive living environment through rule enforcement.