HOA rules and regulations

Where did you look this information up (property managers site, State Corporation Commission, etc.)?

This could be as simple as the site not being updated or the Association isn't incorporated yet.


If your State laws require such information be provided when you purchase, it is typically the sellers responsibility. In the two years you have been there have you attended a meeting of the Association? Does the Association produce a newsletter?

Simply contact your Association and request a copy. Since it has been two years, you may have to pay for it (remember this expense would have been the responsibility of the previous owner, however, since you're now the owner you will have to incur any expense).


Fortunately it was a warning.
The issue might have been that your pet was on a teather rather than on a leash. I know it's minor but as you said, you need to know what the rules are.

The CC&R's are PUBLIC documents and available at your local courthouse. By-laws generally do not have to be filed and are internal documents of the HOA. (If they are filed it's at the county courthouse with the CC&R's) The articles of incorporation are filed at the state level. That makes your HOA for-profit or non-profit corporation. Most HOA's are non-profit but NOT the same as a charity.

It is viewed in most states as your responsibility to be informed of the rules because the documents are kept publicly. Whether or not you know that. You are NOT a member of the HOA until you are a property owner. Which means the HOA does not have to provide you with any information to non-members. Many HOA's may provide information upon request but that is considered a courtesy and not a law.