Street-Side Parking in HOA Communities: Navigating Public Roads and Community Expectations

In HOA communities with public roads, street-side parking often becomes a point of contention between homeowners, the HOA board, and local authorities. When the roads are owned and maintained by the city or county, the HOA’s authority over these areas is limited. Here, we’ll explore some of the unique challenges and potential solutions for managing street-side parking in these communities.

---

Understanding Public Road Ownership

When streets are public, they fall under city or county jurisdiction. This means:

• Regulation Authority: The HOA typically lacks the authority to impose fines or parking restrictions on these roads. Enforcement falls under the local government, which has set regulations such as limits on how long a vehicle can be parked in one spot, or rules about blocking driveways or fire hydrants.
• City or County Codes: Homeowners are bound by city or county parking laws, not HOA rules, for public roads. However, this can create tension when the community has specific preferences for maintaining curb appeal and reducing congestion.

---

Common HOA Concerns Around Street Parking

In many HOA-governed communities, parking on public streets raises several issues:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Parked cars along the street can detract from a community’s look, especially in neighborhoods with carefully manicured landscaping.
2. Safety and Access: Excessive street-side parking can obstruct sightlines, making it harder for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to navigate safely. It can also restrict access for emergency vehicles.
3. Property Values: Visible street parking, especially with commercial vehicles, boats, or RVs, can create concerns about potential impacts