What are CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions)? Zoning Definition
Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs) are the recorded legal documents that establish the rules and obligations for properties within a subdivision or planned community, typically enforced by a homeowners association.
CC&Rs — short for Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions — are the governing documents for a planned community, subdivision, or condominium development. They are recorded with the county recorder's office and are legally binding on every property owner within the community. CC&Rs are the primary rulebook that a homeowners association (HOA) uses to manage the neighborhood.
These documents typically address architectural standards (roof materials, exterior colors, fence types), land use restrictions (no commercial activity, no short-term rentals), maintenance obligations (lawn care, driveway upkeep), and behavioral rules (noise, parking, pets). They also outline the HOA's authority, how dues are assessed, and what happens if an owner violates the rules, including potential fines or liens on the property.
CC&Rs exist separately from municipal zoning regulations and can be more restrictive. For example, a city's zoning code might allow you to build a 35-foot-tall structure, but your CC&Rs might cap building height at 28 feet. When planning any improvement or change to your property, you should review both the local zoning ordinance and your CC&Rs to determine which rules apply.
Amending CC&Rs usually requires a vote by a supermajority of homeowners in the community — often 67% or 75%, depending on the original documents. Some states also impose limits on what CC&Rs can restrict, particularly in areas like solar energy installations and water-efficient landscaping. Always request and read the CC&Rs before purchasing a home in any HOA-governed community.
Related Terms
HOA
A Homeowners Association is a private organization in a subdivision or planned community that enforces rules, maintains common areas, and collects dues from property owners.
Covenant
A legally binding agreement or restriction written into a property's deed that controls how the land or buildings may be used, often imposed by a developer or previous owner.
Deed Restriction
A deed restriction is a private limitation written into a property's deed that controls how the property can be used or developed, separate from and in addition to government zoning rules.