Doesn’t it bother you when you can’t store your tools in a shed for strict shed regulations imposed by your Homeowners’ Association (HOA)? Sure, it does and that’s why you need a plan!
So, how to hide a shed from HOA?
To hide the shed from HOA, paint the shed with neutral colors to camouflage the shed. Plant long shrubs and plants to cover your shed from the prying eyes of the neighbor.
Surprisingly, if your HOA allows, you can build a privacy fence to make it easier to hide the shed. You can also try hiding your shed by installing a patio!
To learn more about those clever trades, keep reading!
SKIP AHEAD
What Happens If You Build A Shed Without HOA Approval?
If you build a shed without HOA approval, the consequences can vary depending on the specific HOA rules and regulations.
Most of it will come in the form of a formal warning.
You may receive a warning from your HOA for building a shed without approval. They’re likely to send multiple warnings for the removal of the shed.
But can an HOA make you take down a shed?
If you keep ignoring their warnings, the HOA can implement its rules to fine you. But it should be based on the HOA legislation. You can be fined for each day that the shed remains on your property.
In other cases, the HOA may demand that you remove the shed if it does not meet their guidelines. In this case, you have to be responsible for the cost of removal.
That’s pretty much all you’re going to get if you get caught having a shed by your house by the HOA.
But wait, some HOAs can be more lenient and might allow you to keep the shed. But it’s only if you make certain alterations to bring it into compliance with their rules.
The HOA holds the right to take legal action against you if you refuse to comply with their demands.
How To Hide A Shed From HOA?
Obtaining a shed can simplify storage concerns, but contending with HOA regulations can come in between and interfere!
So here’s what you can do to effectively and discreetly hide your custom shed while adhering to HOA guidelines.
No products found.
Paint in Neutral Colors
Select earthy, neutral tones for your shed’s paint to seamlessly blend with its surroundings.
Choose siding materials for the shed that mirror those used on your house, whether it’s wood, vinyl, brick, or another material. Resin sheds, where you keep stuff, should be coated with acrylic paints to match the house paint.
You can also mimic architectural details like siding patterns, shingles, or stonework to replicate your home’s design. This will easily make the shed blend in with your house’s surroundings.
The paint quality and color match, especially with your home’s exterior, can create an illusion that appeals to HOA aesthetics.
Build a Privacy Fence
Building a lattice or picket fence around the shed not only provides privacy but also facilitates the vertical growth of shrubs. The addition of picket fences adds a touch of elegance to your property.
However, you need to check the HOA regulations to make sure whether you’re allowed to build a privacy fence. The regulations should clearly state the height of the fence that you should comply with. Or else, you’ll just end up with more trouble with the HOA!
Plant Evergreens
Sheds visible from the street may breach HOA rules. Positioning your shed within the yard, shielded by shrubs and trees, is an ideal solution.
Utilizing vines or junipers can obscure corners, but consistent maintenance is key.
Again, make sure that the plants you pick and their placement follow the HOA regulations. Just to be safe!
Install a Patio
This is a rather expensive option. However, installing a patio featuring a spacious gazebo in front of the shed can be a great option to keep your shed hidden from the prying eyes of the HOA.
A well-landscaped patio serves as an effective concealment, transforming your discreet storage into an aesthetically pleasing addition to your outdoor space.
Who knows maybe they’ll let you keep the shed after all if it satisfies the HOA aesthetic standards!
Disguise!
Finally, we’re going to learn about the most clever trick in the book.
The art of disguise!
This is where you find loopholes in the HOA regulations and adapt!
Carefully check your HOA regulation to see whether they allow establishments that closely resemble a shed.
If they allow establishments like children’s playhouses, then go for it! You can easily disguise a shed as a children’s playhouse by decorating it like one!
Paint the exterior of your shed in bright, cheerful colors commonly associated with playhouses, such as pastel shades or vibrant hues. Consider using child-friendly themes like a cottage, castle, or fairy tale design.
You can use it like a sun cast shed to keep your tools and other utilities. And the neighbors won’t even question anything!
Things to Consider For Building A HOA Approved Shed
Within your HOA shed rules, you’ll typically discover a set of regulations that must be adhered to when constructing a new shed. These restrictions often cover various aspects:
1. Size and Height
Many HOAs impose size limitations on sheds. Common maximum dimensions include 12×12 or 12×16, with some allowing sheds up to 100 square feet.
Height and roof pitch may also have specified maximums and minimums. The most prevalent height restriction is typically a maximum of 12 feet at the highest point, while roof pitches might require a minimum, such as 6/12 or greater.
2. Paint, Shingles, and Siding
Some HOAs may stipulate that the shed’s paint color, shingle style and color, and siding style must match that of your home.
If your home boasts multiple colors, you might have the flexibility to choose which colors to match and use.
3. Location
Shed placement on your property is a matter of concern for both the HOA and the Architectural Review Committee (ARC).
Proximity to the property line is a key consideration, and the regulations governing this aspect can be found in your HOA shed rules, as well as local city and county zoning regulations.
Visibility from the street is another location-related concern; most HOAs require the shed to be obscured by your house when viewed from the street.
4. Additional Requirements
Some HOAs may demand additional landscaping, latticework, or other exterior aesthetics to approve your shed.
The construction method may also be stipulated, with some allowing pre-built and delivered sheds while others require on-site construction.
Certain HOAs might insist on a permanent foundation for your shed, potentially limiting its mobility in the future.
5. Submitting Approval Forms
Depending on your HOA’s approval process, you may need to provide various documents to gain approval for your new shed.
These documents typically include shed images and dimensions, often in the form of photos or drawings. There is also a site plan showing lot size, home location, and the proposed shed’s size and location. This information can often be obtained from your county’s GIS website.
FAQs
How close to my Neighbour can I build a shed?
In many instances, it’s permissible to construct a shed adjacent to your neighbor’s fence, provided you adhere to the guidelines for permitted development. A crucial rule to follow is that the shed’s overall height should not surpass 2.5 meters when situated within 2 meters of the property boundary.
What is the minimum space around a shed?
Experts advise maintaining a minimum clearance of 24 inches around all sides of your shed. This not only ensures a respectful distance but also provides practical space for any future modifications or activities involving the outdoor structure.
Can the HOA look in your backyard?
Regrettably, it’s a sobering fact that HOAs possess the authority to establish and uphold regulations pertaining to the aesthetics and activities within your backyard. However, if your state law deems it illegal, then HOA can’t enforce it on you!
Conclusion
That concludes our guide on how to hide a shed from HOA.
It’s best to comply with HOA regulations and look for alternatives to keep your tools and utilities.
Pushing the boundaries of regulations might not always end up being a good idea. So look up your neighborhood’s HOA regulations before trying out anything.
Have a great day!
- How To Hide A Shed From HOA (5 Easy Hacks) - September 8, 2023
- How to Hang Tools in a Suncast Shed (7 Easy Steps) - August 31, 2023
- How To Hang Stuff In Resin Sheds (5 Easy Steps) - August 29, 2023