If you’ve ever found yourself swimming in association documents and wondering what exactly am I looking at?—you’re not alone. Even seasoned board members sometimes mix up Bylaws, CC&Rs, and Rules. But understanding the difference is key to governing effectively and confidently. Let’s break it down.
📜 CC&Rs: The Foundation of Your Community
What they are:
CC&Rs stands for Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions. These are the legal documents that set out the rights and responsibilities of both homeowners and the association. They’re recorded with the county and are legally binding when you become a member of the association.
What’s inside:
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Use restrictions (e.g., no short-term rentals, pet limits)
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Architectural control requirements
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Maintenance responsibilities
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Definitions
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Enforcement rights and remedies
📘 Bylaws: How Your Board Operates
What they are:
Bylaws define how the association is governed. They focus on the structure and function of the board rather than homeowner behavior.
What’s inside:
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How board members are elected
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Board officer roles and duties
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Meeting procedures (quorum, voting)
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Term lengths and appointment rules
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Notice requirements
📋 Rules & Regulations: The Everyday Guidelines
What they are:
Rules and regulations are adopted by the board to manage daily life in the community. They expand on the CC&Rs by providing more detailed dos and don’ts.
What’s inside:
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Pool hours
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Parking rules
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Pet etiquette
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Use of amenities
What’s key:
Rules must be reasonable and aligned with the CC&Rs and state law. Boards should adopt them properly and give notice to members.
✅ Why This Matters
When a homeowner complains, or the board wants to make a change, knowing where to look and what kind of authority you’re dealing with matters.
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CC&Rs are tough to change (often need membership vote and recordation)
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Bylaws are somewhat easier, but still often require member input
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Rules can be updated by the board (with proper notice and process)
Understanding the hierarchy and purpose of each helps avoid legal pitfalls and ensures smoother governance.
👥 Final Tip: Keep Copies Handy
Every board member should have easy access to these documents, either digitally and/or in print. Better yet, take time to review them as a team once a year. And if you’re ever unsure? Ask your community manager or legal counsel to help you sort it out. You’re not expected to know everything—just to ask the right questions.
