Rudd: How to celebrate election season in an HOA-managed community – Daily Independent

Debbie Rudd

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By Debbie Rudd | Executive Director, Arizona Community Managers Association

The 2024 election has arrived. Whether they’re voting, attending a campaign rally or just talking to their neighbors, Arizonans across the state are making their voices heard.

Another popular method of supporting a candidate is placing a sign in the front yard of the home. Yard signs are a great way for voters to show support for their candidate or cause and get the word out at the polls.

However, there are policies that govern when and where signs can be placed outside the home.

Homeowner associations usually have different rules that residents must follow. This allows voters to support their political causes while keeping HOA-managed communities well maintained during the hustle and bustle of election season.

State law allows political signs to be put up 71 days before the primary election and gives homeowner associations the power to regulate their size and how many a resident can post on their property. In addition, state law requires the signs to be removed 15 days after the election — mirroring the two-week deadline political candidates must meet when their own races are over.

Common areas in HOA managed communities are considered association property. This means that residents should check with the HOA before posting political signs in these open community spaces. State law allows the removal of political signs when they are placed on property without the owner’s permission, and this includes neighborhoods owned and operated by HOAs.

It is important to note that all citations issued by the HOA should not be ignored. You have rights. If you live in a community that is professionally managed, this company can help you make sure residents and the HOA understand what is allowed under state law and HOA rules.

Organizations like the Arizona Community Managers Association exist to provide education on political sign posting and a host of other issues so that HOA-managed communities can be professionally managed and remain in compliance with the law.

Happy Election Day!

Editor’s note: Debbie Rudd is the executive director of the Arizona Community Managers Association. Contact her at [email protected]. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcome [email protected].