Can My HOA Restrict Security Cameras?

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There’s been a recent surge in people wanting security cameras, whether it be a doorbell camera to spot thieves or an outdoor one connected to the internet. They’re also becoming more affordable and easier to install. You may be considering installing a security camera system in your home, but you’re not sure if the homeowners association (HOA) has any rules about it. You may also worry that if you do install a security camera system and the HOA finds out, you might be fined or even have to take the system down. The question then is “Can my HOA restrict security cameras in our outside my home?”

Can My HOA Restrict Security Cameras?

Yes, your HOA can restrict security cameras, especially if the cameras go against the community’s aesthetic and architectural guidelines. HOAs generally have the right to approve any architectural changes that would be visible on the exterior of a home, even in the backyard. Most homeowners associations likely require approval from the board to mount anything on the exterior of homes, including security cameras.

Even when an HOA approves of security cameras, they might still have rules about where they can be installed, how they can be used, and the type of security cameras you can install. Other HOAs don’t have any restrictions on security cameras at all.

What are the Rules for Security Cameras in an HOA Community?

If you live in an HOA community, you should check with your HOA or management company to see if there are any rules about security cameras before you install one. Some HOAs might have rules that require you to get approval from the board before installing a security camera, while others might not allow security cameras at all. There might also be rules about where you can install security cameras, such as only in certain areas of your property or only in areas that are not visible from the street.

 

Rules for the Association

An HOA is under no legal obligation to install security cameras unless the bylaws or state law demand it. If an HOA does have security cameras, the rules for their use will be in the bylaws.

Homeowners need to be made aware of the camera policy, and the bylaws should also explain how the footage will be used, stored, and accessed. For example, the board might have access to the footage but not individual homeowners. Or, the footage might be stored off-site by a third-party company.

If an HOA wants to install security cameras, it must follow the due process requirements in the HOA bylaws. The board should notify homeowners of the proposed camera system and give them a chance to provide feedback. Only the HOA has the authority to install a camera in the common areas or in a location that will capture the common space.

If your community is gated, cameras might be positioned at the entrance to monitor who goes in and out. These cameras will belong to the HOA and will be considered common property. The footage from these cameras can be only used by the HOA or law enforcement and not by individual homeowners.

Rules for the Residents

In some cases, the HOA might allow residents to install security cameras on their own property as long as they adhere to HOA guidelines. These guidelines might include where the cameras can be installed, how they can be used, and the type of cameras that can be used.

For example, the HOA might only allow wireless cameras that are not visible from the street. If you want to install a security camera system in your home, check with your HOA first to see if there are any rules or guidelines you need to follow.

For homes in an HOA, homeowners should Install security cameras without taking away from the aesthetics of the community. Plan the installation so the camera doesn’t clash with its surroundings. You should also account for weather conditions and always use durable hardware.

Even if your HOA doesn’t have any rules specifically about security cameras, it’s a good idea to check with your neighbors to see if they have any objections before you install one.

How Can You Find Out if Your Community Has Rules About Security Cameras?

The best way to find out if your community has rules about security cameras is to check with your HOA or management company. You can also check your HOA’s bylaws to see if there is anything mentioned about security cameras in the community.

Some HOAs might have an online database where you can search for specific rules and regulations. Or, you can always contact your HOA directly to ask about their policies on security cameras.

What Happens if You Violate an HOA Rule About Security Cameras?

If you violate an HOA rule about security cameras, you might face disciplinary action from the HOA. This could include a warning, a fine, or even being forced to remove the security camera system from your property.

It’s important to note that every HOA is different, so the consequences for violating an HOA rule will vary from one community to the next. If you’re unsure about the rules in your community, be sure to check with your HOA before you install a security camera system.

Conclusion

Can my HOA restrict security cameras in my community? The simple answer is yes they can. Security cameras are considered common property and the HOA has the authority to install them in common areas or locations that will capture footage of the common space. If your community is gated, cameras might be positioned at the entrance to monitor who goes in and out. These cameras will belong to the HOA and will be considered common property.

Homeowners in a community with an HOA should be aware of the rules their association has about security cameras. If there are no specific rules, homeowners should check with their neighbors to make sure they’re not violating any aesthetic guidelines. Make sure you follow your HOA’s guidelines if you do decide to install a security camera system to avoid disciplinary action from your association.

FAQs

Can you install a security camera even if the HOA doesn’t allow it?

No, you should not install a security camera outside your home if the HOA expressly prohibits it. The HOA can legally regulate any cameras in public areas, so you could be subject to disciplinary action from the HOA if you go against their rules.

What are the consequences of violating an HOA rule about security cameras?

If you violate an HOA rule about security cameras, you might face disciplinary action from the HOA. This could include a warning, a fine, or even being forced to remove the security camera system from your property.

Is there any way to get around an HOA rule prohibiting security cameras?

No, there is no way to get around an HOA rule prohibiting security cameras. If the HOA has a rule against security cameras, you will need to follow that rule. The only way to get around HOA rules prohibiting security cameras would be to install a doorbell camera or a hidden camera outside your home. Both types of cameras would theoretically not violate the community architectural standards, so the HOA would have no right to prohibit doorbell cameras, front door cameras, or other hidden cameras outside the home.

Should you obey the rules of your HOA or follow your own intuition when it comes to installing a security camera system in your home?

You should always follow the rules of your HOA. After all, you agreed to live within the community given the present community regulations. If you want to change the HOA rules, you’ll need to get involved in the community and voice your concerns at an HOA meeting. You may also want to consult with an attorney to see if there are any legal loopholes you can exploit to install security cameras outside your home, despite the HOA rules.