HOA nightmare in DFW: When your homeowners association goes too far and what you can do

DFW HOAs are notorious. Some are well-run community organizations. Others are petty fiefdoms. Here's your legal toolkit.

Common HOA overreach in DFW:

• Fining for trash cans visible from the street (even on trash day)
• Banning Ring doorbells or security cameras (likely unenforceable — see below)
• Selective enforcement (fining some homeowners but not others for the same violation)
• Towing vehicles without proper notice

Your rights under Texas law:

1. Texas Property Code 202.023: HOA cannot prohibit a homeowner from displaying a security camera or video recording device. Your Ring doorbell is protected.

2. Texas Property Code 202.007: HOA cannot enforce a restriction that violates a Texas or federal statute.

3. Texas Property Code 209.006: HOA must provide written notice before any fine and give you the opportunity to cure the violation.

4. Texas Property Code 209.0051: You have the right to an internal hearing before any fine over $200.

5. Selective enforcement defense: If the HOA enforces a rule against you but not your neighbor for the same violation, you have a legal defense. Document the selective enforcement with dated photos.

How to fight back:

1. Request copies of all CC&Rs, bylaws, and meeting minutes (they must provide them under TX Property Code 209.005)
2. Attend board meetings (you have a right to under TX Property Code 209.0051)
3. Document selective enforcement
4. File a complaint with Texas AG (HOA enforcement falls under their jurisdiction)
5. Small claims court for improper fines ($20K limit)

RECEIPTS REQUIRED: If posting about HOA overreach, include the specific rule cited, the notice you received, photos of the alleged violation, and evidence of selective enforcement.

Sources:

• Texas Property Code Chapter 202 (general HOA restrictions)
• Texas Property Code Chapter 209 (property owners' associations)
• Texas AG — HOA complaint filing

You own the house. The HOA doesn't. Know the actual rules.