HOA Rules Decoded: What You’re Actually Allowed to Do (But Think You Can’t)

🏡 HOA Rules Decoded: What You’re Actually Allowed to Do (But Think You Can’t)

If you’re shopping for a home in an Arizona HOA community — especially in the East Valley (Gilbert, Queen Creek, Chandler, Mesa) — you’ve probably heard mixed opinions. Some people love the curb appeal and consistency; others worry about strict rules and surprise violations.

But here’s the truth: many HOA “restrictions” buyers fear are actually protected rights under Arizona law.

Let’s separate fact from fiction.

🔍 MYTH vs. FACT — Arizona HOA Edition

❌ Myth #1: “HOAs can stop me from installing solar panels.”

✅ Fact: Under A.R.S. §33-1816, HOAs cannot prohibit solar energy devices. They may suggest alternate placement for aesthetic reasons — but they can’t deny installation altogether.

❌ Myth #2: “I’m not allowed to fly flags or political signs.”

✅ Fact: A.R.S. §33-1808 protects your right to display:

• 🇺🇸 U.S. flags
• 🎖 Military/first responder flags
• 🎃 Seasonal & holiday flags
• 🗳 Political signs (during election periods)

HOAs may regulate size or placement, but they can’t ban them outright.

❌ Myth #3: “Security cameras and video doorbells aren’t allowed.”

✅ Fact: Most HOAs must allow reasonable security devices such as Ring or Nest cameras — as long as they’re on your property and not invading a neighbor’s privacy.

❌ Myth #4: “I’m required to maintain a grass lawn — no desert landscaping.”

✅ Fact: Thanks to A.R.S. §33-1817, Arizona HOAs must allow water-efficient landscaping, including:

• 🌵 Desert plants
• ✅ Artificial turf
• 💧 Xeriscape options

They can establish appearance guidelines — but cannot force turf-only yards.

❌ Myth #5: “HOAs can deny disability ramps or handrails.”

✅ Fact: Under the Fair Housing Act, HOAs must allow reasonable accommodations for accessibility. They may review plans — but they cannot block medically necessary modifications.

✅ Final Takeaway

Not all HOAs are strict — and many rules people fear are actually protected homeowner rights.

The key isn’t avoiding HOA communities altogether — it’s understanding how flexible (or rigid) each one really is before making an offer.

Thinking about buying in an HOA in Gilbert, Queen Creek, or the East Valley?

I’d be happy to help you:

✔️ Review CC&Rs before you commit
✔️ Identify “friendly” HOAs vs. “high-restriction” ones
✔️ Clarify what’s negotiable — and what’s legally protected

Just reach out anytime — I’m here to make the fine print easy.