Dallas, TX HOA Rules: Dispute Resolution (2026)
Key Facts
- ADR Right
- Either party may request mediation (Section 209.0071)
- Hearing Required
- Before fines or suspension of rights (Section 209.006)
- Notice for Hearing
- Must include date, time, and place
- Owner Response
- May attend in person or respond in writing
Summary
Texas law provides a formal alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process for HOA disputes in Dallas. Under Texas Property Code Section 209.0071, either a homeowner or the HOA may request mediation or arbitration before or during litigation. The association must participate in ADR if properly requested. Many HOA governing documents also include mandatory internal grievance procedures that must be exhausted before formal ADR.
Sec. 209.007. HEARING BEFORE BOARD; ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (d) and only if the owner is entitled to an opportunity to cure the violation, the owner has the right to submit a written request for a hearing to discuss and verify facts and resolve the matter in issue before the board.(b) Repealed by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 951 (S.B. 1588), Sec. 22(2), eff. September 1, 2021.(c) The association shall hold a hearing under this section not later than the 30th day after the date the board receives the owner's request for a hearing and shall notify the owner of the date, time, and place of the hearing not later than the 10th day before the date of the hearing. The board or the owner may re
Full Breakdown
0071 establishes the right of either party (homeowner or HOA) to demand alternative dispute resolution for disputes arising under the association's governing documents or the Property Code. If ADR is requested before a lawsuit is filed, the other party must participate in good faith. If requested after litigation begins, the court may order the parties to mediation. The costs of mediation are typically split between the parties unless the governing documents specify otherwise. Many Dallas HOA declarations include an internal appeal or grievance process that should be followed before requesting formal ADR.
006, before an HOA may suspend an owner's rights or charge a fine, the owner must be given written notice and an opportunity to be heard at a board meeting. The notice must state the date, time, and place of the hearing. The property owner may attend the hearing in person or by written response. Dallas County courts handle HOA litigation when ADR is unsuccessful, with cases typically heard in the district courts.
Violations & Fines
Failure of an HOA to participate in properly requested ADR may result in court sanctions and can impact the HOA's ability to recover attorney's fees. If an HOA suspends rights or imposes fines without providing the required hearing under Section 209.006, the action may be voided by a court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request mediation with my Dallas HOA?
Must my HOA give me a hearing before imposing a fine?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas
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Dispute Resolution in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle dispute resolution.