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Article
Courtesy of Channel 12 News
By Al Pefley
Published June 20, 2024
PALM BEACH GARDENS — A new law takes effect less than a
month from now that will impact people who live in communities in Florida
governed by homeowners' associations.
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The new law will mean
significant changes for HOA residents. People who live in
HOA communities typically have a strict list of dos and
don’ts.
Now, because of a new state law, the rules in HOA
communities are about to change.
"I think a lot of 'em are good. They're fine. Doesn't bother
me at all," said Sean Markey, a resident of Garden Oaks in
Palm Beach Gardens for 23 years.
he bill recently signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis will
mean fewer restrictions for people who live in HOA
communities across the state.
"I think that if you own your own home,
you should be allowed to do whatever you please in your own
home," said Bob Giuffre, another Garden Oaks resident. |
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Garden Oaks community in Palm Beach Gardens
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Residents are excited for the freedom.
"I think it's great. Personally, I think it's great," said
Maria Haydon, a retiree who also lives at Garden Oaks. "It
gives us more liberty."
Some of the changes include HOA's will no longer be able to
place limits on the interior of a home.
Plus, no more fines for leaving the trash can at the end of
the driveway if it's within 24 hours before or after trash
pickup time.
"I've had that problem," Haydon said about the new trash
rule. "I have to put it out in the morning and I'm rushing.
Sometimes, they come pick it up earlier, sometimes later.
You never know."
Also, next month HOA’s will no longer be able to fine a
resident for leaving holiday decorations or holiday lights
up longer than what's specified in governing documents. That
may be considered a major win for residents.
"I celebrate Christmas as long as I possibly can. I don't
believe in taking the lights down on a certain day. Leave 'em
up. It makes everybody happy. Keeps 'em in a great mood,"
Markey said.
Under the new law, HOA's cannot stop a homeowner from
parking their personal vehicle in their driveway, including
pickup trucks.
"Usually, the vehicles that people drive in here are really
nice-looking vehicles. So why not?" Haydon added.
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