Assembly Bill 1061 bill sailed through its first test Tuesday with unanimous approval from the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee. Under the bill (previously covered here), homeowner association rules would be “void and unenforceable” if they restrict compliance with local landscaping ordinances or conservation measures.
While the goals of the bill may be admirable, it is written so broadly it could disrupt homeowner groups’ authority to review an individual homeowner’s landscaping plans that spell out the type, number and placement of plants.
Many people chose to live in developments with association rules because they like the appearance of common landscaping, architectural design and colors. While the state may have an interest in conservation, it is hoped that the legislature will amend the bill to need to protect the interests of homeowners who purchase in a common interest development because they like the fact that the uniform rules help preserve property values, and improve the general appearance of a community.
I still suspect that the bill is largely unnecessary and disputes over the installation of drought tolerant plants are rare. I would love to hear if anyone has been involved or is aware of such disputes within their association.
