Certain residential areas operate under a system of private land-use controls that govern what homeowners can and cannot do with their properties. These controls are legally binding and are attached to the property deed, transferring with ownership. For example, such provisions may dictate architectural styles, minimum house sizes, landscaping requirements, or restrictions on certain activities, such as operating a home-based business.
The purpose of these provisions is to maintain property values, preserve aesthetic standards, and foster a sense of community. Historically, these controls arose from the desire to protect neighborhoods from perceived negative externalities and ensure a consistent and desirable living environment. The enforcement of these rules is typically handled by a homeowners association (HOA), which has the authority to impose fines or take legal action against homeowners who violate the regulations.