Violations – What to Do When You Receive One
First, Don’t Panic
Receiving a notice of violation from the Grand Landings HOA or its management company may feel frustrating, but it’s part of our community’s commitment to maintaining a safe, attractive, and harmonious environment for all residents. This process is grounded in Florida law, our Covenants, and our Bylaws; and yes, it includes your right to be heard.
Why the Rules Matter
Our Declaration of Covenants and Restrictions outlines clear expectations for homeowners. When we each do our part, we preserve our property values and quality of life. These rules apply to everyone, and the enforcement process ensures fairness and consistency; not punishment.
🔹 You agreed to abide by these Covenants when you purchased your home
🔹 The goal is not to penalize, but to encourage voluntary compliance
🔹 Many violations are easily resolved with communication and action
Common Violations That May Prompt a Notice
Homeowners in Grand Landings are expected to follow our Covenants and community rules to maintain safety, aesthetics, and property values. Below are common violations that may trigger an enforcement notice:
🚗 Vehicle Parking & Storage
Source: Article III, Section 3.8 – Parking Restrictions, Garages, and Driveways
- Only functional passenger vehicles may be parked in driveways or garages
- No boats, trailers, motor homes, or recreational vehicles may be parked outside of garages
- No commercial vehicles or those displaying advertising signs may be parked in public view on a regular basis
- Inoperative vehicles may not be stored in public view for more than 48 hours
- No routine vehicle repair may occur outside of a garage, unless emergency work is completed within 48 hours
- Streets may not be regularly used for parking
- Garage doors must be closed when not in active use
- All garages must be equipped with and maintain electric door openers
- All driveways must be paved using Declarant-approved materials
🏡 Use of Residential Units
Source: Article III, Section 3.1 – Residential Use
- Lots may only be used for single-family residential purposes
- Day care homes, or community residential homes are prohibited
- Home offices are permitted only if:
- Not visible or audible from outside
- Do not increase traffic
- No employees or regular client visits
🏘️ Leasing & Occupancy
Source: Article III, Section 3.9 – Occupancy and Leasing Restrictions
- Entire Residential Units must be leased as a whole (not subdivided or by room)
- Written leases must include tenant names, lease term, and start date
- A copy of the lease must be provided to the HOA within 5 days
- Minimum lease term is 90 consecutive days
- No more than two leases allowed per calendar year per unit
- Short-term rentals, hostels, or rooming houses are prohibited
- Maximum occupancy is limited to two persons per bedroom
🌳 Tree Removal
Source: Article VII, Section 7.1 – Landscaping
- Trees measuring 10 inches or more in diameter (measured 2 feet above ground) may not be removed without prior written approval
- Unauthorized removal will result in liquidated damages of $200 per inch of diameter, per tree
🏀 Structures and Stored Equipment
Source: Article III, Section 3.12 – Storage, Equipment, and Other Structures
- Basketball goals may not be attached to any residential structure and must be stored within the unit when not in use
- Storage buildings, play structures, dog houses, propane tanks, and other structures are not permitted unless approved
- Trailers or construction materials may not be placed on any Lot prior to home construction unless approved
🪧 Signs, Banners, Flags, and Displays
Source: Article III, Section 3.18 – Signs and Antenna Systems
- No signs of any kind shall be displayed to public view on any Lot or Dwelling without prior written approval, except:
- One real estate sign (≤6 square feet) advertising the property for sale or rent
- One standard-size security sign located near an entry point
- Political signs, dog relief signs, and contractor signs are not authorized unless specifically approved
- Flags and banners must comply with Florida Statutes and may require Architectural Review for mounting and placement
- Temporary displays and holiday decorations must be removed within a reasonable time after the event or holiday, unless otherwise approved
🌊 Environmental and Wetland Restrictions
Source: Article III, Section 3.22 – Environmental Restrictions
- No landscaping or physical alterations may be made to any wetland, upland buffer, or conservation area
- Owners are liable for damages and costs resulting from unauthorized modifications or permit violations
⚠️ Permit Compliance (Water Management & Corps of Engineers)
Source: Article III, Section 3.22(d) – Permit Violations
- No Lot Owner may perform any activity that violates permits issued by the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
- Violators are responsible for all penalties and legal costs
🧑🤝🧑 Use of Common Areas
Source: Article II, Section 2.5 – Use of Common Property
- Common Areas are for use by Owners and lawful Occupants
- Owners may not assign or extend use rights to non-residents except as outlined
When You Receive a Violation Notice
Under both Florida Statute 720.305 and our Bylaws (Article V, Section 3), the HOA must follow a due process that includes:
Notice of Violation
You will receive written notice (either by mail or hand-delivered) explaining:
- The specific covenant or rule allegedly violated
- A description of the issue
- The date, time, and location of a hearing (if applicable)
- Your right to be heard
Your Right to a Hearing
You may appear before a designated Compliance Committee; an independent group of non-board members.
You will have the opportunity to:
- Present your side
- Share documents or photos
- Ask questions
- ✳ If the Committee does not approve the fine or penalty, it will not be imposed (Bylaws Article V, Section 3.b)
Fines & Suspension of Rights
- Fines can be up to $100 per day, up to $1,000 maximum
- Fines are added to your account and treated like assessments
- If unpaid, they may result in liens and collection efforts
- Your voting and amenity use rights may be suspended for continued noncompliance or if you are 90+ days past due on assessments (Bylaws Article V, Section 4)
What You Can Do?
✅ Communicate early
If you’re unsure why you received a notice or need clarification, contact the management company. You may be able to resolve the issue quickly.
✅ Document your response
Photos, receipts, or correspondence can help you at a hearing.
✅ Attend the hearing
Your presence ensures your voice is heard. The committee wants to understand both sides.
✅ Make corrections promptly
Even if you disagree, correcting the issue voluntarily is usually the fastest resolution.
Good Stewardship Starts with Us
Being part of a deed-restricted community like Grand Landings means respecting shared spaces and standards. We believe in self-accountability, neighborly respect, and maintaining the integrity of our homes.
Let’s Talk About Fairness and Process
It is understandable that receiving a violation can feel personal; especially if you believe there’s more to the story. But it's important to remember:
The person issuing the violation does not know your circumstances.
They are simply documenting what they see; not judging your intent, needs, or unique situation. Their role is not to investigate but to report observable conditions that may violate our Covenants.
You might feel tempted to vent frustrations on social media or believe your situation is different from others. But:
- Publicly posting your grievance does not initiate a formal review
- Expecting the Board or management to “just knock on your door” is not part of the process
- Exceptions based on feelings of unfairness or personal hardship must be addressed properly
Everyone has the same rights, and the same responsibilities. If you believe the notice was issued in error, or if you need more time to resolve an issue, the process allows you to speak up through the proper channel.
That’s why we have a Compliance Committee, why notices are written, and why hearings exist. These protections are in place to ensure objectivity, due process, and fairness for all.
These standards ensure our community stays beautiful and equitable.