Sometimes it can seem like your HOA has ridiculous rules. For example, rules about the placement of trash cans and how long they can be out at the curb can seem insignificant comparatively to other seemingly more pressing issues. They may also have rules about the kind of trash bins you can have.

We've seen an influx of trash bins at the roadside for extended periods of times. The HOA feels that an awareness campaign is a great idea to inform residents of the requirements of trash bins and to wipe the slate clean of violation letters unless repetitive infractions occur.

Why, however, is this initiative enforced in every HOA?

Many don’t understand why their documents restrict the location or time in which their receptacle can be out for pick-up. The most common language we see in our documents usually states that the receptacles “cannot be in public view”.

Believe it or not, there are several good reasons for having these kinds of restrictions.  Below are the reasons that developers and lawyers involved in the initial community setup include trash and recycle bin restrictions.

AESTHETICS
Trash and recycle cans are not the most attractive things in the world.  They are big, bulky, and usually an unattractive color, like bright green or mud brown. We want to achieve a clean, attractive look to our homes and this means trash bins should be put up at least by the next morning after trash day.