How a Car Collector Outsmarted Their HOA with Malicious Compliance

Navigating a maze of homeowners’ associations (HOAs) can be a daunting task, especially for those who love their vehicles. When faced with a homeowner’s association issuing restrictions on parking in one’s own driveway, a tactic known as ‘malicious compliance’ is used. This skilful approach not only demonstrates their knowledge of the law, but also highlights the ridiculous interpretation of the HRA’s rules.

The saga began when the HOA imposed a new rule limiting the number of vehicles allowed in driveways. For a car collector, this was a direct affront to their passion. The original rule stated, “only 1 class c vehicle allowed per driveway,” the collector realized that class C vehicles were not defined in the HOA’s bylaws. This oversight opened the door for a clever loophole. They parked two cars, four motorcycles, and a camper in their garage, then placed five vehicles in their driveway.

When the HOA sent letters demanding compliance, the collector cleverly deflated their arguments by asking for the legal definition of a class C vehicle. With no clear answer, they faced no fines and continued to enjoy their collection. However, the HOA was not done yet. Fast forward a year, and they proposed a new rule limiting driveways to three vehicles. While this seemed like a setback, the collector’s knowledge of local laws would soon turn the tide.

After some digging, they discovered that the streets in their HOA had been turned over to the city, meaning the HOA had no authority to dictate parking on public streets. Armed with this knowledge, the collector moved two vehicles onto the narrow street in front of their house and across from it. This strategic placement caused a traffic jam, forcing neighbors to navigate around the parked cars, which led to a flurry of complaints directed at the HOA president.

The result? Another vote was called, and the HOA had to reconsider their driveway regulations. Thanks to the collector’s cunning tactics, they were now allowed to park as many legally registered vehicles as they desired in their driveway. This victory not only allowed them to expand their collection but also served as a lesson for the HOA about the importance of clear and precise regulations.

The story is a testament to the power of understanding the rules and using them to one’s advantage. It’s a reminder that homeowners associations, while often overreaching, can be challenged with the right knowledge and strategy. The collector’s experience underscores the importance of knowing the law better than those who enforce it, especially when it comes to something as personal as one’s home and hobbies.

The collector returned to living life on their own terms, free from the constraints of an HOA that had underestimated their resolve. They shared a valuable piece of advice: “Don’t make assumptions on what the rules mean. They mean what they say.” This mantra not only applies to HOAs but to life in general. Understanding the fine print can save you from unnecessary conflicts and empower you to stand your ground.

As the dust settled, the collector reflected on their journey, stating, “Cars are just a part of who I am. Some people paint. Some garden. I build cars.” This passion for automobiles is what drove them to fight back against the HOA’s restrictions. Now, with the freedom to park as many vehicles as they wish, they’re even considering expanding their collection further.

For anyone dealing with an HOA, the story serves as a beacon of hope. It illustrates that with a little knowledge and a lot of determination, it’s possible to turn the tables on those who seek to impose unnecessary restrictions. So, whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply someone who values their personal space, remember that understanding the rules can be your greatest ally in the battle against overreaching regulations.

Related posts:
“It Was Glorious”: Car Owner Maliciously Complies With HOA’s New Rules, They Regret It Almost Immediately
HOA Complained About How Many Vehicles They Have, So They Read The Fine Print And Knew They Had Nothing To Worry About