Land records · Parcel maps · October 5, 2026
What Are CC&Rs? Covenants, Conditions, Restrictions
CC&Rs are recorded covenants, conditions, and restrictions that limit how property in a subdivision or HOA can be used. How to find, read, and change them.
What are CC&Rs? CC&Rs stands for covenants, conditions, and restrictions. They are recorded rules that bind property in a subdivision, planned community, or condominium, usually set out in a document called a declaration. CC&Rs can control things like home size and style, fences, sheds, parking, rentals, pets, and assessments for common areas. Because they are recorded, they generally bind every future owner, whether or not the owner read them. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
What each part means
| Term | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Covenant | A promise to do or not do something | Maintain landscaping |
| Condition | A requirement tied to ownership | Pay HOA assessments |
| Restriction | A limit on use | No commercial vehicles in driveways |
Common CC&R topics
- Architectural control: approval for exterior changes, colors, additions.
- Use limits: single-family use, home businesses, short-term rentals.
- Structures: fences, sheds, pools, solar panels, satellite dishes, subject to state and federal laws that limit some restrictions.
- Vehicles: boats, RVs, and trailers.
- Animals: number and type of pets or livestock.
- Assessments: dues, special assessments, and lien rights. See what is an HOA lien.
- Common areas: use and maintenance. See HOA tracts on a subdivision plat.
Where to find CC&Rs
- County recorder: search by subdivision name or the declaration’s document number. See how to find deed restrictions.
- Title commitment: exceptions in Schedule B often list recorded declarations.
- The HOA or management company: usually provides governing documents.
- The recorded plat: sometimes contains or references restrictions. See deed restrictions vs plat notes and what is a plat restriction.
Check for amendments recorded after the original declaration.
CC&Rs vs zoning
Zoning is public law enforced by the local government. CC&Rs are private restrictions enforced by an HOA or other owners. When both apply, the stricter rule usually governs what you can practically do.
Changing CC&Rs
Declarations usually explain amendment procedures, often requiring a supermajority vote of owners and recording the amendment. Some restrictions also expire after a stated term unless renewed.
Unenforceable provisions
Old covenants sometimes contain discriminatory language. Such provisions are unenforceable under federal fair housing law, and many states provide a process to remove or strike that language from the record.
Before you buy
- Read the CC&Rs and rules, not just a summary.
- Look for rental, parking, fence, and shed restrictions that affect your plans.
- Ask about pending violations, lawsuits, or special assessments.
Enforcement
An HOA board usually enforces CC&Rs through notices, fines, and, in serious cases, lawsuits seeking an order to fix a violation. In neighborhoods without an active association, individual lot owners covered by the same restrictions may have the right to enforce them in court. Courts sometimes decline to enforce a restriction that has been widely ignored for years, or when the neighborhood has changed so much that the original purpose no longer makes sense, but outcomes depend heavily on state law and the facts.
Bottom line
CC&Rs are recorded covenants, conditions, and restrictions that govern use and appearance of property in a subdivision or HOA. Find them at the county recorder, in a title commitment, or from the HOA, and read amendments too. Look up the subdivision and parcel on the Platbookmapper map.
What are cc&rs FAQ
What does CC&R stand for?
Covenants, conditions, and restrictions.
Are CC&Rs the same as HOA rules?
CC&Rs are recorded governing restrictions. HOA rules are often more detailed policies adopted under them.
Do CC&Rs apply if I never signed them?
Recorded CC&Rs generally bind future owners.
How do I find my CC&Rs?
Search county recorder records, check your title commitment, or ask the HOA.
Can CC&Rs be changed?
Yes, usually by an owner vote and recorded amendment as the declaration specifies.