Pennsylvania HOAs enforce CC&Rs through written violation notices and internal hearing procedures. The association must act reasonably, follow its governing documents, and provide owners notice and an opportunity to be heard before imposing fines.
Under Pennsylvania law, CC&R enforcement must follow the procedures established in the association's declaration and bylaws. The typical process involves: (1) a written notice identifying the violation and the specific covenant breached, (2) a reasonable cure period, (3) a hearing before the board or designated committee if the violation is not cured, (4) a written decision with any fine or required action. Fines must be authorized by the governing documents and applied consistently across all owners. Selective enforcement is a valid defense in court. The association may record a lien for accumulated fines and pursue collection through the courts. For persistent violations, the association may seek injunctive relief in the Court of Common Pleas. Philadelphia's unique housing stock — predominantly attached row homes — creates specific CC&R issues around shared walls, facades, stoop maintenance, and exterior colors. Condominium associations have additional enforcement tools under the Uniform Condominium Act (Ch. 33).
Fines per the association's adopted schedule. Accumulated fines result in liens. The association may suspend common area privileges. Court injunctions are available for persistent violations.
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See how Philadelphia's cc&r enforcement rules stack up against other locations.
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