Q: We rent a nice townhouse in a quiet community. Since there are two of us, we have been parking one car in our driveway and the other in whatever guest spot is open. Many of our neighbors do the same. This morning, I found a note on the car window threatening to tow my car for not parking in our assigned driveway spot. To add insult to injury, the note also stated I could not park backed-in. Can the association tell me where and how to park? —Kelly
A: Regardless of whether you rent or own your home, the community association can tell you where and how to park if the community’s governing documents give them that right. This goes for condominiums, homeowners associations, and cooperative communities.
These same rules can also control what type of vehicle you are allowed to park, with many communities banning overnight parking of commercial vehicles. The association can also control the use of guest spots.
Breaking these rules can lead to fines and having your car towed. Additionally, your lease likely requires you to follow the community rules, so breaking the parking regulations can mean you are also breaching your lease.
There are reasons for these regulations, even if they seem unnecessary. A limited number of guest spots are available, and they are for guests, not second cars of residents. People who live in the community are expected to park in assigned spots, their driveway, or garage, while guests should use the limited number of guest spots.
Communities and many municipalities have similar rules banning back-in parking. The rationale usually given for this rule is to keep the license plate visible to police. However, whatever the reason, the rules are the rules, and when you live in a controlled community, you are expected to follow them.
If back-in parking or having ample parking is important to you, it is best to live somewhere that does not have these restrictions.
That said, until you find a more suitable place to live, not following these rules can have consequences.
