Can HOA Tell You What Decorations to Put Up? Rules, Rights, and Smart Steps
Introduction: Why This Question Matters
Most homeowners assume decoration is private, until a notice lands in the mailbox. That question, can HOA tell you what decorations to put up, matters because community rules govern everything from holiday lights to political signs, flags, porch furniture, and yard statues. Violations can mean fines, removal demands, or required approvals through an architectural review committee.
HOA rules exist to protect property values and create visual consistency, but they vary widely. Some associations allow seasonal decor with limits, others require pre approval for any exterior change. In this article you will learn how to read your CC&Rs, spot common restrictions, respond to violations, and use practical tactics to keep your style without a fight. Examples, letter templates, and a quick compliance checklist are included.
How HOAs Get Authority Over Decorations
When you ask can HOA tell you what decorations to put up, the short answer starts with the CC&R document. Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, recorded at the county, create the baseline obligations for every owner, they often include an architectural control clause that lets an architectural review committee approve or deny exterior changes. Bylaws then spell out how the board is elected and how rules are adopted. Finally, rules or guidelines translate broad CC&R language into specifics, for example allowing wreaths but banning yard statues over a certain height.
Practical steps, do this before you decorate: read the CC&R sections titled Use Restrictions and Architectural Controls, pull the HOA rules or design guidelines, and ask the property manager whether an application or variance is required. Keep requests in writing, include photos and dimensions, and note any temporary use such as holiday lights. If a rule conflicts with state law or federal protections, consult an attorney or cite the statute when you request an exception.
Common Decoration Rules You Will See
When homeowners ask can HOA tell you what decorations to put up, the answer is usually yes, within reason. Here are the typical rules you will see, with real examples.
Holiday lights, often allowed only during a set window, for example mid November to mid January, and sometimes limited to rooflines or low voltage bulbs.
Flags, commonly restricted by size or mounting method; a standard 3 by 5 foot flag on a wall pole is usually permitted, freestanding flagpoles often need approval.
Lawn ornaments, often limited in height and number, with many associations banning inflatables or large statues.
Political signs, frequently allowed only for a short period around elections, and limited in size.
Seasonal displays, like wreaths or pumpkins, often accepted but expected to be removed within a few weeks.
Always check your CC&R or ARC rules before putting anything up.
How to Find Your HOA Rules, Step by Step
Start with your closing packet, the easiest place to find CC&Rs. Look for documents titled Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, or Rules and Regulations, then search the PDF for "decorat", "holiday", "flag", or "lights" to find exact language.
Next log into the HOA portal or website. Many boards post a rules PDF, architectural guidelines, and a searchable FAQ. If the portal has a search box, type "decorations" or "exterior" and download the governing documents.
Check recent board minutes, they often record enforcement actions or new clarifications about decor. Use the minutes date to confirm whether a rule is new.
If anything is unclear, email the property manager. Ask for the specific CC&R section or rule citation, and request a written clarification or variance procedure so you know whether can HOA tell you what decorations to put up.
Are HOA Rules Legal, and What Limits Apply
Yes, can hoa tell you what decorations to put up? Short answer, yes, but only within legal limits. HOAs can enforce rules in CC&Rs and design guidelines, provided those rules do not conflict with state statutes or federal law. For example, blanket bans that block display of religious symbols or deny reasonable accommodation for a mobility aid may violate the Fair Housing Act. Political sign restrictions are limited in some states, and flag protection laws can trump HOA rules in others.
If a rule feels arbitrary, check your governing documents, then state statutes. Request a written variance or accommodation from the board, cite the specific law, and keep records. If blocked, contact a local attorney or housing agency before escalating to litigation.
How to Get Approval for a Decoration
Most boards will ask for a formal request before you install anything, and knowing the answer to can hoa tell you what decorations to put up starts with a clean, complete application. Follow this workflow.
- Gather documents, copy the relevant CC&R clause, and get the official architectural request form from management or the HOA website.
- Take clear photos of the area, plus a mockup or digital rendering showing exact placement and scale. Include measurements, materials, color codes, and how you will attach or remove the item. For example, "3 foot wreath, removable hook, no drilling into brick."
- Attach specifications, product links, and a timeline. State start and removal dates, especially for seasonal decorations.
- Check fees and timelines. Many associations charge a review fee, typically $25 to $100, and allow 14 to 30 days for a decision.
- Submit by email and certified mail, then follow up after two weeks. If you get a denial, ask for a written reason, revise the plan, and offer to present at the next board meeting. Document every step.
Creative Decoration Strategies That Comply With HOA Rules
If you ask, can HOA tell you what decorations to put up, the short answer is yes, but you can still get creative. Use removable solutions that do not alter structure, for example door wreaths hung on over the door hooks, or window clings and battery LED strings placed inside windows to create curb appeal without exterior changes. Swap permanent planters for tall, movable pots on the porch to add height and color, or use decorative outdoor rugs and cushions to change style seasonally. For lawns try low profile solar path lights or potted topiaries; these convey polish while staying within most community guidelines. Before buying bold pieces, photograph your plan and submit it to the HOA; approval requests with visuals usually get faster yes responses.
When to Push Back, and How to Do It Smartly
If you wonder can HOA tell you what decorations to put up, push back when rules are vague, applied inconsistently, or clearly unreasonable. Start by reviewing the CC&Rs, take dated photos, and save emails. Make a polite appeal to the board, with a one page packet: rule citation, photo of the proposed display, and a compromise option. Offer a visual mockup and a short timeline for removal if neighbors object. If the board refuses, ask for mediation through the community manager or a neutral mediator. Collect a petition from supportive neighbors to show consensus. Consult an attorney when fines escalate, enforcement seems discriminatory, or state law may be violated.
Quick Checklist Before You Decorate
Before you decorate, if you wonder can HOA tell you what decorations to put up, run this checklist first.
Read your CC&Rs and community rules, highlight sections on decorations, lights, flags, and window treatments.
Check architectural or design guidelines for size, color, and placement limits.
Note any seasonal dates and mandatory removal deadlines.
Measure the space and take photos, so submissions are exact.
Choose materials that meet safety and maintenance standards.
Fill out the approval form, attach photos and product links, submit with time to spare.
Get written approval before installation, keep copies of all correspondence.
Tell nearby neighbors about large displays, and save receipts and after photos for proof.
If denied, request a written reason and appeal instructions.
Conclusion: Next Steps and Final Insights
Bottom line, HOAs can regulate decorations when CC&Rs and design guidelines spell out limits, but you also have rights, especially for national flags and safety related items. If you are asking "can HOA tell you what decorations to put up" start by reading your CC&Rs, the architectural guidelines, and any seasonal rules. Immediate next actions, do these three things: 1) take photos of your planned decorations, 2) submit a written request or modification form, 3) ask for a written approval or denial with reasons. Be proactive, attend the next HOA meeting, and propose modest compromises like moving lights off the roof line or using neutral colors. If enforcement seems unfair, document everything and consider mediation or legal counsel.
