trespassers at HOA private beach

Started by JessicaC1 • 6 replies • 1460 views

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JessicaC1 (Maryland)
Posts: 4

Posted:

Have had recent requests for membership to HOA from neighbors who don't have deeded beach rights (rights were deeded to one side of street while the other side was sold to a developer with no such rights). This request was denied on basis that the beach, ramp and it's access and use are owned by the HOA and it's members. Now trespassing is escalating. We have come up with a temporary policy suggested by the police but would appreciate any suggestions members can offer.

JohnB26 (South Carolina)
Posts: 1,569

Posted:

If someone were to trespass onto your private property what would you do?

Y'all need to do EXACTLY the same!

Post ... warn ... call police ... prosecute ... etc.

Or, hire a security guard to protect YOUR private beach.

JessicaC1 (Maryland)
Posts: 4

Posted:

Thanks - it's what we do.

SusanW1 (Michigan)
Posts: 5,202

Posted:

We have two streets that ONLY receive water rights. Our bylaws say that the rate for these homes are set by the board each year.

Your problem will be enforcement. WHO is going to sit at the beach all day and monitor it?

I am sure you have considered:

Locked gate with pass cards or keys?

Paid beach monitor?

Special pass issued to those certain 'outside' residents for a yearly fee?

SteveM9 (Massachusetts)
Posts: 3,699

Posted:

Put up a better sign.

Keep it simple stupid. Put a map or list of each house that has access to the beach. Add a note, anyone not on this list will be charged with trespassing misdemeanor. Police will be notified immediately, strictly enforced!

JessicaC1 (Maryland)
Posts: 4

Posted:

Thanks for the suggestion. I'll pass the map/list idea on to the HOA. Thanks

JessicaC1 (Maryland)
Posts: 4

Posted:

Thank you for the suggestions. Our next step will be to consider a locked gate at the entry to the parking area. We already have a chain and lock across the boat ramp.

We can't offer the special pass as our liability risk would skyrocket and the insurance agent and lawyer for the HOA have both strongly discouraged us from offering one.

I figure when there's HOA members at the beach the gate will be open other times it will be locked.

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