Texas may be below the national average in the realm of pet ownership, but Dogster reports that well over half of all households own at least one pet. When you're setting HOA policies regarding pets in a community, it's important to keep these numbers in mind.
In other words, your community pet policies shouldn't aim to eradicate pets in your HOA community. Instead, you should focus your attention on community well-being.
How can you promote harmonious living for pet owners and non-pet owners alike? Read on to find out.
Monitoring Noise and Cleanliness
HOA board responsibilities extend beyond financial management. As a member of the board, you also need to create and uphold policies that support the overall success of your community.
When considering pets in a community, focus on potential issues like noise and cleanliness. For example, consider creating bylaws regarding:
- The number of pets each household can own
- Hours when pets may be outdoors without direct supervision
- Penalties for failing to clean up after pets in community spaces
- Leashing requirements
- Vaccination requirements
Make sure that you always enforce bylaws and impose penalties consistently and without bias. In other words, don't require some community members to follow the rules while letting others break them.
Creating Pet-Friendly Neighborhoods
As an HOA, you can use a portion of the HOA budget to make your neighborhood a more welcoming place for dog owners. For example, keeping green areas clear of overgrowth ensures that there are plenty of places for dogs to alleviate themselves. Providing pickup bags and trashcans ensures that owners can easily keep these spaces clean.
If dog ownership rates are high enough, consider creating an off-leash dog park. These kinds of community pet initiatives can show that your HOA board cares about your homeowners and their interests.
Service Animals and Federal Rights
Some HOAs seek to restrict pets by size or breed. This is a choice we see more in condo associations than in neighborhood associations.
Regardless of the type of housing in your community, your HOA bylaws can't conflict with HUD regulations. The Fair Housing Act prevents discrimination against residents with emotional support and service animals. That means that even if a service animal doesn't meet your typical bylaws, you can't impose those bylaws.
How can you verify that an animal in your community is a service animal? We recommend trusting your HOA members and taking them at their word. However, you can ask for proof of service animal status (although you can't ask about the disability that service animal supports).
Manage Pets in a Community with PMI's Help
If you're on your HOA board, you may need to contend with pets in a community. Use this guide to balance the interests of your neighborhood pet owners and non-pet owners alike.
PMI Fort Bend is here to make sure your HOA reaches its full potential. We are Fort Bend's top association management company that provides both full-service and self-managed options. Contact us to boost your HOA and win over your community members.
