Homeowner associations are well regulated communities designed to embrace uniformity and privacy. Many have policies that suit retirement age couples or affluent families who like well managed properties with minimal disruptions. Part of what makes them successful are HOA signs that reinforce blanket policies. Here are ways these signs help maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
Homeowner associations are typically gated communities that require an access code to enter. They also usually include several speed bumps within the community. HOA signs about parking are among the most common, since these associations try to keep traffic limited. They often only allow so many slots per household. Many of them do not allow certain types of vehicles, such as trucks or vans. Such associations typically don’t allow for long-term guests.
The speed limit is often very slow, such as 5 mph, to remind visitors that residents value quietness and safety. It’s common for HOAs to have narrow roads for two-way traffic, which is another key reason for keeping traffic slow. Maintaining light traffic also allows for more durable roads.
Many HOAs are started by residential developers that buy a large piece of land and divide it into a subdivision of multiple lots. After selling the lots to home buyers, the developer usually turns decision-making over to an association.
The association consists of board members that vote on rules affecting the entire community. Most states set standards as to how boards and associations are allowed to work. California has a large of body of laws related to HOAs, whereas not all states do. While it’s possible for federal, state, and local laws to supersede association rules, there’s still a chance for certain HOA rules to stand if they conflict with higher law. These rules are usually categorized as bylaws or declarations, which are part of the agreements signed by the homeowner.
While a resident may disagree with the contract, they are still bound by these rules. All homeowners become members of the association and have a say in rule-making. But even if they disagree, they know the rules are enforceable and they must obey them, as well as inform guests about them. When someone purchases property run by an HOA, they are willing to make sacrifices in personal taste in favor of quality of life, security and maintenance, which all contribute to property value. HOA signs serve as a constant reminder of these rules.
Part of what makes living in an HOA peaceful is the fact that they are often part of neighborhood watch programs. The California-based organization known as National Neighborhood Watch Institute (NNWI) is a division of the National Sheriffs’ Association. It’s designed to build stronger relationships with law enforcement and for community members to look out for each other by reporting suspicious activity to authorities.
While the NNWI was launched in 1972, it was not the first crime watch organization. In fact, the idea originally began in America’s colonial period. There are actually several crime watch organizations across the country and they can be started by small communities. Not only do neighborhood watch signs deter crime, they also help bring communities closer together.
HOA signs are useful for reminding both residents and visitors what the rules are within a community. These signs are very effective at controlling driving behavior. Contact Zumar at our Arizona, California, or Washington location for more information about specific sign messages and other traffic control devices.