Gardening might feel like the most peaceful hobby on the planet, but in 2026, it comes with a surprising twist: the rules are getting stricter, and homeowners who don’t pay attention could end up paying more than they ever expected. While most people think of gardening as a simple matter of planting what you love…
HOA rules
New HOA Rules in the Carolinas Are Banning These Common Garden Features
Across the Carolinas, many HOAs have been updating their landscaping and exterior‑appearance guidelines, and homeowners are discovering that some very common garden features are now restricted or require approval. These changes aren’t random — they’re usually tied to curb‑appeal standards, maintenance expectations, or uniformity goals. But that doesn’t make them any less surprising. Let’s dig…
New HOA Crackdowns Are Targeting Backyard Gardens in 2026
Once upon a time, the biggest HOA battles were about mailbox colors and lawn height. Fast forward to 2026, and a new, much more personal fight is growing—literally. Backyard gardens, once celebrated as wholesome, sustainable, and neighbor-friendly, are increasingly landing in the crosshairs of homeowner’s associations across the country. For many residents, that small patch…
Homeowners Are Being Warned About a Yard Waste Rule Most People Don’t Know Exists
It starts innocently enough. A few bags of leaves. A pile of grass clippings. Maybe some trimmed branches stacked neatly by the curb, waiting for pickup. Most homeowners assume yard waste is the easiest part of home maintenance — rake it up, bag it, and move on with your life. But here’s the surprise that’s…
New HOA Rules That Are Changing How People Garden in 2026
The gardening world inside HOA (Homeowners Association) neighborhoods has officially entered its plot-twist era. What once felt like a rigid checklist of green grass, trimmed hedges, and zero personality now looks wildly different as 2026 unfolds. Boards, residents, and even city governments have pushed gardening rules into new territory that rewards creativity, sustainability, and community…
10 Times a Garden Upgrade Became a Legal Nightmare
Upgrading your garden is probably something you saved for and put time and effort into. But what if we told you that your efforts could turn into a legal nightmare? Property lines blur, drainage shifts, and suddenly a friendly neighbor becomes a furious plaintiff. Cities have sightline laws you’ve never heard of; HOAs have pages…
10 Garden Decorations That Attract The Wrong Kind of Attention
We all are proud of our gardens and want to decorate them to enhance their beauty. But some decorations can also create unintended issues. Some items actually attract pests, nosy neighbors, or even thieves. Often, these risks are unintentionally overlooked. Here are 10 garden decorations that bring the wrong kind of attention. 1. Bright Solar…
9 Reasons Your Lawn Might Be Violating HOA Rules
Homeowners Associations (HOAs) often have strict rules about lawn care and curb appeal to maintain a uniform, attractive look throughout the neighborhood. Some of these rules are common sense, but others may take you by surprise. Of course, every community is different and has its own rules. Make sure to consult with your HOA guidelines…