How Matthews Handles HOA Rules: A Practical Guide
Matthews maintains 113 local ordinances across all categories, and 5 of those deal specifically with hoa rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Matthews falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Architectural Review
Matthews HOAs enforce architectural review committees (ARC) under recorded CCRs. Approval required before exterior changes, paint colors, additions, fences, and landscaping. Written decisions typically required within 30-60 days per bylaws.
Key details: Authority: CCRs + NCGS 47F. Approval: Required before work. Good Faith: Required. Due Process: NCGS 47F-3-107.1.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
CC&R Enforcement
Matthews HOAs enforce CCRs through fines, suspension of privileges, liens, and injunctive relief. NCGS 47F-3-107.1 requires written notice, hearing opportunity, and proportional penalties before fines imposed.
Key details: Fine Cap: $100/violation statutory. Continuing: Up to $1,000. Process: Notice + hearing. Authority: NCGS 47F-3-107.1. Attorney Fees: NCGS 47F-3-120.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Compared to other cities, Matthews takes a harder line on cc&r enforcement. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Board Procedures
Matthews HOAs governed by NC Planned Community Act (NCGS Chapter 47F) for communities created after January 1, 1999. Board meetings must allow reasonable member attendance; annual meetings required; records must be available for member inspection.
Key details: Governing Law: NCGS 47F. Board Meetings: Open to members. Annual Meeting: Required. Records: Member inspection. Authority: NCGS 47F-3-108.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Dispute Resolution
North Carolina HOA disputes resolved through internal hearing process, then mediation or litigation in Mecklenburg County District or Superior Court. NCGS 7A-38.3F provides for court-ordered mediation in HOA cases.
Key details: Hearing Rights: NCGS 47F-3-107.1. Mediation: NCGS 7A-38.3F. Venue: Mecklenburg Co Court. Attorney Fees: Available to prevailing party.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Assessment & Dues
Matthews HOAs may levy regular and special assessments under NCGS 47F-3-102 and the declaration. Unpaid assessments become liens on the unit with foreclosure authority after notice. Late fees, interest, and attorney fees recoverable.
Key details: Lien: Automatic. Foreclosure: After 30-day notice. Authority: NCGS 47F-3-116. Late Fees: Per declaration.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is one of the stricter rules in Matthews's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
The Bottom Line
Matthews is tougher than many cities when it comes to hoa rules. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Matthews, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
These rules come from Matthews's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.