Patio/Balcony Ettiquette

by Saffron Caudle

Everyone who lives in condos, co-ops and housing developments governed by a board are subject to a variety of HOA rules and regulations, and it’ s no different here at Toscana. Community associations are legal entities in which the owners enjoy the enhancement, maintenance and preservation of their homes and property.

One of the primary goals of Toscana of Desert Ridge Condo Association is to protect the aesthetic appeal and property values of the neighborhood. In order to accomplish this, certain rules and regulations are established by which homeowners and residents must abide. Residents found in violation of these rules can be subject to letters and fines in accordance with the Violation Policy (available on toscanaliving.net.).

With that being said, I would like to give a friendly reminder of some of the infractions that would constitute a violation letter, so that you will have a better understanding of some of our regulations.

As many of you already know, items are not permitted to be placed on balcony/patio railing. This includes anything that is sitting on top of, attached to or hanging from the rails. Ceilings fans must be approved by the Board the Master Association PRIOR to installation. With and specific regard to the Toscana Property Suites Units and the Toscana Golf Casitas Units, no natural gas or propane barbeques or other open flame, regardless of combustion source, will be allowed on any balconies or patio areas. All balconies and patio areas must be maintained in an aesthetically acceptable manner that reflects the high pride of ownership in the Association. Balconies and patio areas shall not be used for storage (i.e. no bicycles, pool floats, cleaning supplies, etc.). No clotheslines or other facilities for drying or airing clothes shall be erected, placed or maintained on the exterior of In addition, pets may not be kept on the balcony or patio along with any pet related structures. Any time a pet is outside (including on your patio or balcony) they must be accompanied by their owner.

How to respond to HOA rules violations

Address it. Ignoring a violation won ’t make it go away, and can actually make the situation much worse. Once you ’ ve received a violation notice, take steps to understand and correct the violation, and either pay or appeal the fine, if there is one.

Don ’t take it personally. Remember that the HOA’ s rules were created to keep the community safe and comfortable for residents, including you. You also agreed to abide by the rules when you purchased your unit or entered into your rental agreement.

Communicate. While friendly face-to-face communication can address minor infractions or warnings, written communication and documentation helps create clarity for everyone involved. When you ’ ve been accused of an HOA rule violation, it’ s best to address it in writing.

Get involved. There is usually a correlation between the level of homeowner involvement and the long-term success of a community, so, if you want to improve your community attend meetings to see how you can contribute.