Fee schedule or no fee shedules - which helps protect members?

The purpose of a "Fee Schedule" is to set up the price one pays in fines. Without a fee schedule there's not a real way to enforce fines. Just saying "We will fine lacks any kind of enforceable definition. Fines are limited on being subject to foreclosure/liens in many states. Meaning you can't have fines the basis of liens or foreclosures. Those are for unpaid dues. Although a HOA can make it appear that dues collected are applied to fines owed. That then changes it where can possibly lien.

Fines are PUNITIVE in nature and not money making. They are there to correct a violation. Much like speeding tickets.

I agree with fee schedules and Kerry's comments that they can serve as deterrents. If you don't want to run the risk of being hit with a fine, comply with the rule. If you disagree with the rule, work with your neighbors in urging the board to revise it. Some rules may have lived out their purpose and can be dropped, but there could be other problems that warrant the approach. The key is to review the rules on a regular basis, educate the homeowners (a lot) on why they exist, encourage people to make suggestions, etc.