Owning a pet is a wonderful way to bring joy to your life and add a terrific companion to your family. According to new data for 2024, approximately 66 percent of U.S. households own at least one pet.
If you run an HOA community in the Spring Branch, Texas area, you may wonder how to set the appropriate rules and guidelines regarding pets.
Read on for some tips about how to set rules for pets in an HOA community to ensure that everyone is happy.
Limit the Number of Pets Allowed
Allowing pets in an HOA community is wonderful, but sometimes, certain people may end up owning too many. One way to set rules for HOA living is to include a limitation on the number of pets each resident can own.
By setting these limits as part of your overall pet policy in advance, you're making things clear from the outset. Not only will this keep noise and messiness down, but it also allows people to have pets while being reasonable in terms of how many each person can have in their homes.
Pets in An HOA Community: Enforce Noise Rules
HOA management should already have rules in place regarding noise. For example, residents should turn off their loud stereos or make sure parties are over by a set time.
This same rule regarding noise should also apply to pets. If someone's dog is outside barking at midnight, it can lead to disputes between neighbors. Setting stringent guidelines regarding pets and noise can prevent these issues from becoming a problem in the first place.
Know the Support Animal Laws
Even if you don't allow pets in an HOA community, you may have to allow certain support animals. According to the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), disabled people with support animals must be allowed to keep them.
Make sure you're up to date on all of the latest rules and regulations regarding these types of pets. This will prevent issues like being accused of discrimination. Add these HOA rules and this important information to your HOA community guidelines.
Require Pet Registration
If you do allow pets in your community, make sure that each one is registered with your organization. This makes it easier to track who has pets and may even help someone if their pet gets lost.
Make it clear that all new residents must inform the HOA if they have a pet with them. This should also apply whenever someone gets a new pet as well so it's easier to track every pet living in the community.
Enhance Your HOA Experience with Pets
Allowing pets in an HOA community can be tricky, but the right rules will make it easier. Be clear about your guidelines up front, and make sure you're aware of the support pet laws.
PMI Bluebonnet Reality is the premier association management company in Spring Branch, Texas. We provide an array of services and are here to help you and your HOA community, so contact us today to find out more.
