14-04-2025
Political signs don't belong in peaceful HOA neighborhoods
Ohio House Bill 16, sponsored by state Rep. Brian Lorenz (R-Powell) and Rep. Thomas Hall (R-Madison Township), proposes to void existing homeowner associations' yard sign rules as they apply to political signs. HOAs are created by an agreement among homeowners to follow some common rules, which can include a "no signs" rule. HB 16 would override these agreements, letting people not honor their commitments. Let the individual HOAs decide on their own rules.
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Alternatives exist to address the proponents' issues without overriding existing agreements. Reducing the majority needed to change HOA rules, for example, or help prospective homebuyers find out about HOA restrictions. HOAs could establish "reasonable restrictions" regarding political signs, but that involves hiring lawyers and an HOA-wide vote and arguments the HOA didn't ask for.
A "no yard sign" rule is a bright-line standard that is easy to apply and keeps our neighborhoods more peaceful.
Michael O'Neill, Lewis Center, Ohio
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Proposed Ohio law shouldn't overrule HOAs on yard signs | Letter
