Florida recently passed a pivotal law that affects homeowners within HOA (Homeowners Association) communities. Now in effect, this legislation fundamentally alters the permissible uses of residential backyards, especially concerning the placement and storage of various items, as well as the installation of artificial turf.
Outlined in Florida Statute 720.3045, which forms part of House Bill 437, the law prevents HOAs from restricting homeowners’ ability to install, display, or store items in their backyards, provided these items cannot be seen from the street or adjacent properties. This statute is only overridden by broader state or local laws that prohibit such items. Furthermore, it permits homeowners to use artificial turf in their yards and to keep recreational vehicles, boats, and campers on their property.
This legislative change is especially significant for residents of HOA-managed communities, where traditionally, there have been strict prohibitions on storing items like boats, trailers, and sports equipment, even if they were not visible to neighbors.
In larger HOA communities, which typically include amenities such as parks, golf courses, and ponds, the new statute offers added flexibility. It seems to allow for the storage of items in backyards that may be visible from these shared spaces, as long as they are not visible from the street or neighboring homes.
In a notable development, the new Florida law has provided relief to many homeowners previously restricted by HOA rules regarding the use of artificial turf. This transformative legislation supersedes existing HOA bylaws, allowing residents the freedom to install artificial turf in their yards. This amendment has been especially welcomed by those who were frustrated with the restrictions on their landscaping options. Supporters of artificial turf highlight its low maintenance, uniform aesthetic, and environmental benefits - like reduced water consumption - as major reasons for their preference. The enactment of this law signifies a growing recognition of these benefits and represents a significant step toward empowering homeowners to make sustainable and practical landscaping decisions.
The law specifically reads as follows:
… REGARDLESS OF ANY COVENANTS, RESTRICTIONS, BYLAWS, RULES, OR REQUIREMENTS OF AN ASSOCIATION, AND UNLESS PROHIBITED BY GENERAL LAW OR LOCAL ORDINANCE, AN ASSOCIATION MAY NOT RESTRICT PARCEL OWNERS OR THEIR TENANTS FROM INSTALLING, DISPLAYING, OR STORING ANY ITEMS ON A PARCEL WHICH ARE NOT VISIBLE FROM THE PARCEL'S FRONTAGE OR AN ADJACENT PARCEL, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ARTIFICIAL TURF, BOATS, FLAGS, AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLES.
This law supersedes HOA bylaws, allowing homeowners to install artificial turf in their yards. Previously, many faced restrictions from their HOAs regarding backyard modifications. With this change, residents now have more control over their property aesthetics and upkeep."
The clear language of the new Florida law, along with the usual practice among many Florida HOAs to automatically incorporate new and revised state laws into their governing documents, implies that a substantial number of the state's associations will now be unable to restrict the storage of items and/or the installation of artificial turf that are not visible from the front or neighboring properties of a parcel.
This change is likely to be a major shift for numerous HOA communities. It requires their boards of directors, property management teams, and legal advisors to integrate this new legislation into their enforcement decisions concerning both item storage and the installation of artificial turf.
Top 10 Benefits Of Artificial Turf
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Artificial turf provides a consistently lush and green appearance, boosting curb appeal.
- Low Maintenance: Say goodbye to mowing, watering, and fertilizing - artificial turf requires minimal upkeep.
- Durability: Withstands heavy foot traffic, pet activity, and inclement weather without fading or deteriorating.
- Water Conservation: Reduces water usage, helping homeowners contribute to environmental conservation efforts.
- All-Season Use: Enjoy a vibrant green lawn year-round, regardless of seasonal changes or weather conditions.
- Dog-Friendly: Provides a clean and safe surface for pets to play, with easy cleanup of pet waste.
- Allergy-Free: Eliminates pollen and allergens commonly associated with natural grass, providing relief for allergy sufferers.
- Cost-Effective: Saves money on water bills, lawn care equipment, and maintenance services over time.
- Weed-Free: Prevents the growth of weeds, reducing the need for herbicides and weed control measures.
- Longevity: Offers a long lifespan of 15-20 years or more, ensuring long-term enjoyment and value for homeowners.
Take a peek at our backyard's transformation in these before-and-after snapshots. From a worn-out, struggling lawn to a lush, green artificial turf, see the real difference a change can make. No more worrying about patchy turf - just a beautiful, low-maintenance space for our furry friends to enjoy.

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