Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions

Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CCRs) are legal documents in real estate, common in planned communities and subdivisions. These recorded rules govern land use and development, establishing a framework for how properties within a specific area can be utilized. CCRs maintain community standards and can help preserve property value to  ensure individual property use aligns with the neighborhood’s collective vision.

“Covenants” are promises by property owners to perform or refrain from specific actions, such as maintaining a home’s exterior or adhering to landscaping guidelines. “Conditions” are requirements for property ownership, often relating to improvements or obtaining approval for changes. “Restrictions” impose limitations on property use, which might include prohibitions on commercial activities or specific vehicle parking.

Common CCR’s

CCRs include rules and regulations for community standards. Architectural guidelines cover things like exterior paint colors, fencing materials, and home additions. Landscaping rules focus on lawn care, tree removal, and approved plant types. Pet restrictions might limit the number, size, or breed of animals and often include waste disposal requirements.

Parking rules may govern where vehicles can be parked, prohibit oversized vehicles or limit street parking. Limitations on property use, such as commercial businesses from operating from a residence or restricting short-term rentals could also be included in CCR’s.

Establishment and Enforcement

CCRs come into existence through a formal process, typically initiated by the developer of a planned community or subdivision. These documents are legally recorded with the county recorder’s office, making them part of the public record and binding on all current and future property owners within that community. This recording ensures that the rules “run with the land,” meaning they apply to the property itself, regardless of who owns it. 

The Homeowners Association (HOA) may play a central role in enforcing CCRs once the community is established. Enforcement mechanisms vary but commonly include issuing warnings for minor infractions. For continued non-compliance, HOAs can levy fines, which may be assessed periodically until the violation is resolved. In more serious cases, an HOA might place a lien on the property for unpaid fines or assessments. Legal action, such as a lawsuit to compel compliance or recover damages, is another enforcement tool available to some HOAs.

Some governing documents may have a provision to amend the CCR’s, such as a vote of the majority of the members, but rules can vary.  

Prospective buyers should review a property’s CCRs to understand their rights and obligations.

For communities without an HOA, CCRs might still be recorded, enforcement may be handled by a local municipality.

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