How to Work with Your HOA

Now that we've convinced the city to allow hens (woot!), many of you who live in an HOA may want to try to change the board's mind about allowing hens. Most HOAs do not, at this point, allow them. The Aurora ordinance specifically says that HOAs have the right to override the city's ordinance on this issue, meaning they can say no.

If you want hens and cannot relocate to a new area, consider if you think you have a chance with your HOA. Then do what we have done with the city: talk to someone on the Board, get the word out to your neighbors, educate people (a great place is the speeches people gave at the City Council Meeting - starting at 1:00:27), get signatures from neighbors (find out if there is a specific format the HOA would like), and then present to the HOA.

From Daisy, one of our Chicks in Aurora members: "I was on the Board of Directors for an HOA, and the best way to get support, as others have said, is to talk to your neighbors first, ask them if they'd be for or against, and ask why. Then research, and have answers at the ready for when the same questions will come up in the HOA meeting later. A presentation with color graphics and photos will always help too! It's not impossible, that's the good news. We probably changed our minds and rules nearly 50% of the time based on solid facts. But the feelings of others can be very strong, and they may be the power as well, sooo... Prepare and be considerate and armed with knowledge and a smile."

It may take a while, but it's not impossible, especially as you prevent facts: well cared-for hens and well-made coops are not eye sores (cannot be seen from the front of the house at all!), and don't harbor disease or create too much noise. As HOAs see that it isn't a problem in the rest of the city, and as you educate your neighbors and get support, the likelihood of their allowing hens will increase.

Good luck!