Home Owners Associations (HOA) are familiar if you live in a condo or certain residential neighborhoods. Upon purchase of your property you sign an agreement with the HOA to pay dues in exchange for upkeep and repairs. You also agree to a set of rules you must follow to live in the neighborhood.
You may be wondering, especially if you have already looked into the benefits of artificial grass, if your HOA can govern your grass.
Will My HOA Allow Artificial Grass?
Let’s start by reviewing what an HOA can govern.
- Pets
- Home’s Outward Appearance (Paint color, siding, etc)
- Landscaping
- Children’s Play Structures (Basketball hoops, playgrounds, etc)
- Mailboxes
- Noise
- Backyard Structures (Sheds, Greenhouses, etc)
- Home-based business
Landscaping is generally governed by HOA guidelines so the first step is to check your specific HOA’s guidelines regarding the installation of artificial turf. Policies can vary widely from group to group, with some being flexible about landscaping and others enforcing more control. Review the governing documents to find out what your specific HOA’s policies are.
How to Get Artificial Grass If You Have An HOA
If your HOA allows a smooth transition from real grass to artificial grass, then go ahead and start your journey with our Design Consultants.
If you are unsure if your HOA allows artificial turf or if they have a strict no turf policy, there are a few things you can try.
Just Ask!
While you may need to use your best persuasion skills, most HOA’s aren’t trying to stand in the way of making your house feel like your home. Start by simply asking to install artificial turf via a policy change. Don’t forget there is power in numbers! Before you ask the HOA, ask your neighbors if any of them are interested in installing artificial turf. (Bonus: we offer a referral fee to customers if they send someone our way and that person also purchases artificial turf!)
Be aware that a compromise may be essential here. Maybe the HOA will allow only a backyard installation, but not a front yard installation. Or maybe they will only allow a specific style of turf. The important thing here is to get your idea out there, and a small policy change in your favor. Once people see the benefits of artificial turf and how beautiful your lawn stays year round it will be easier to convince your HOA in the future.
Fight ‘No’ With Education
If you are getting stonewalled by your HOA and you feel they aren’t really considering your request the issue may be a lack of education. Some people are still operating under myths about turf and don’t understand it’s benefits.
Our Design Consultants can meet with the heads of your HOA to properly explain artificial turf from installation to care. We bring samples so they can see and feel the grass for themselves. We also answer all questions and explain the benefits including water and maintenance savings and safety for kids and pets. We’ve also provided clients with specification information about our turf products so that their HOA’s can review and approve the turf that they will allow.
Change The Policy
If you aren’t getting anywhere with the above tactics and you are determined to get artificial turf installed. Consider running for your HOA’s board. Change the policy by becoming a part of the leadership.
This tactic takes longer than the others but it can get you the results you are seeking.
