Happy to report CDD violations...

[Mortal1]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark

[John41]

Actually in a way I agree with you that someone has to enforce deed restrictions. But it wouldn’t be me unless it was a serious violation.

[Topspinmo]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark


That’s fine in you’re own district.

[Jayhawk]

Actually in a way I agree with you that someone has to enforce deed restrictions. But it wouldn’t be me unless it was a serious violation.

So you are OK with SOME violations unless you consider them to be serious?

What's minor to some may be major to others. How about we all just comply with the covenants we agreed to?

[Jayhawk]

That’s fine in you’re own district.

So it's OK to complain about deed violations only "in you’re own district" but rag about apartments all over The Villages. Isn't that hypocritical?

[Stu from NYC]

Always nice to have people informing on their neighbors. Great way to make friends and influence people.

[Jayhawk]

Always nice to have people informing on their neighbors. Great way to make friends and influence people.

You mean neighbors who break the covenants and restrictions we all agreed to?

What should someone do if say, a neighbor puts in an above ground metal pool? Or puts a car up on blocks. Is that OK or should you be able to report it to a deed violation department?

[queasy27]

I'm of two minds about it. There are 2-3 houses on my block that are out of compliance. On an esthetic level, I don't care and have never submitted a complaint. But on a philosophical level, I'd much rather that everyone stick to the rules and not shift the responsibility for their misdeeds onto others.

[Jensor17]

Of all the worthwhile things in life to do it Seems a WASTE Of Life’s short time to go around neighborhood Looking to start trouble. They used to call such folks busybodies. Now it’s trolls.
May i suggest you spend time wisely on this Earth helping someone in a grief group at church get through loss of spouse Etc. OR offer a disabled neighbor help with getting groceries, or small cleanup OR go through your own closets/garage to give Items to Goodwill.

[camaguey48]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark
As it should be.

[camaguey48]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark
Actually, Detroit is nice and pleasant this time of year. Plenty of housing available. Seattle is paradise, along with Portland.

[swooner]

Nice way of saying Mind your own business!

[Boomer]

We do not live near any deed restrictions and we are not guilty of any, nor do we intend to be.

But I have to say that when we bought, I naively thought that TV had staff whose job it was to spot and give notice to violators. (Silly me. That would dig into profit.)

I have a feeling this new decision could result in things getting ugly — literally ugly and figuratively ugly.

[arbajeda]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark

We see your full name. What about your address?

When we first started looking at homes in The Villages we really wanted to live in Sanibel. Looks like we dodged a bullet by buying elsewhere.

[GOLFER54]

JUST SO YOU KNOW.....
CDD 5 supervisors vote to end anonymous complaint system.
I guess you’ll have to find something else to occupy your time. I suggest daily weeding of your property and cutting your lawn with scissors.

[cegallup]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark

In theory I agree. But having served as President of a HOA condo board , I can tell you "The devil is in the details". I encouraged the other four members not to get wrapped up with the nitpickers and the minutia. Here in TV the quality of life is too good to be worried about MINOR violations. (In the eyes of the beholder.) Ex. If the cops gave us tickets for going FIVE-OVER it would be very uncomfortable !

[PJackpot]

I don't really care either way. However, you may find appointing yourself deed restriction police, which I don't recommend anyone do, has consequences. It's one thing to complain about something in your own neighborhood. It's quite another to go traversing around The Villages looking for them. Seriously, is your life that dull?

[Leadbone1]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark

I’ve lived here over a year and a half and to be honest I don’t even know what the violations would be? I don’t recall being handed a piece of paper saying you can do this and you can’t do this? If I was going to report something it would have to be kind of a commonsense thing. Something that was obviously not right. I would like to know where I can get a copy of what my deed restrictions are? And I also understand that they’re different in different areas? Could it get any more confusing?

[Stu from NYC]

You mean neighbors who break the covenants and restrictions we all agreed to?

What should someone do if say, a neighbor puts in an above ground metal pool? Or puts a car up on blocks. Is that OK or should you be able to report it to a deed violation department?

There are limits to everything but to boast about driving around informing on your neighbors is to me over the top and glad I do not live anywhere near him.

What else will he decide to inform on, perhaps the comings and goings of his neighbors?

And btw to the best of our knowledge we have no violations.

[Byte1]

I am glad that one area voted to discontinue anonymous complaints. It's more American-like to be able to "face your accuser." Anonymous informing/trolling is so Communist like in nature.
Laws and rules in America ARE flexible in most cases. In the Villages, it does not seem to be the case. I often hear "well, a rule is a rule." Unfortunately, you can see in today's national news plenty of exceptions to that idea.
Thank goodness that my neighborhood does not have the same restrictions that many others do in The Villages. I have neighbors that have their own ideas on how to personalize their property and I find it interesting. I do not agree with those that feel that everything should be the same. Hopefully, that is not going to be construed as being "liberal."
I guess the old saying is true that "misery loves company" because I see many on here agree with the trolls. Don't get me wrong, I do believe in law and order. I just also believe in the idea that all laws and rules being flexible. One law does not require the same exact penalty. After all, we have judges that impose differing penalties to different violators every day. I have seen DUI violators get off with a fine and slap on the wrist. I have seen many violators get off with probation or a warning.
If you want to see a happy neighborhood, drive around until you see one that has yards that are personalized with no two being the same. I drove through a neighborhood recently where one person edged his landscaping with beer bottles. I found it interesting. Not my cup of tea but still interesting and original.
Please do not throw out that same old argument that if everyone did as they pleased, we would have old cars and trucks in front yards. Every situation deserves to be treated separately. If that truck or car does not bother the neighbors then it should not bother those of other neighborhoods that are visiting or just passing through. The local neighbors ought to have the final say, not some outsider.
Why is it that some areas have much more lenient deed restrictions than others? Does it bother you that they do not "conform" to your standards?
Give it a break. Live and let live, because truth be told it doesn't even matter. Why can't folks allow others some peace of mind in their twilight years?
Just a note, I have known folks that complain about deed violations that will walk their dog onto someone else's property to do it's thing. It just goes to show you how much respect they have for others; their neighbors. And yet, they want everyone to "conform."
The other day, a golf cart ran a stop sign and almost caused me to hit him. He did not even acknowledge his mistake. It made me wonder if this is one of the ones that believe in "law and order." He was not the only one. It seems there are many golf cart operators that do not believe that stop signs pertain to golf carts. But I digress.
Final thought; does someone's little gnome, cross or fake bird in their yard really matter that much to you? If so, a bit of introspection may be called for.
Be happy. If you can't, then fake it until it happens to you.

[LucyP]

Trolls have to much time in their hands and most likely feel empower doing it. If you see something talk to your neighbor about it first. Could be reasons or not realize not in compliance. They might not be able to do because health issue and could use some help instead of a troll complaining. Be neighborly instead of a crouch. I live on culsac and asked for it to be cleanup and trash taken. They came trim trees adjacent and never touch the trees on culsac or pickup trash in bushes by trees they trim.

[Singerlady]

So it's OK to complain about deed violations only "in you’re own district" but rag about apartments all over The Villages. Isn't that hypocritical?

Apartments aren’t deed restrictions.....

[Pennyt]

I sat on the board of my neighborhood CDD in Tampa. I love deed restrictions as they help maintain property values. We had a committee who was assigned to periodically go through the community to report violations. This was very effective, was applied to every property equally and did not pit neighbor against neighbor. We were all volunteers.

[Judy n Ron]

I have said this for the last 9 years we've lived here: Shame on you who violate the restrictions. Have you no pride in curb appeal? You are affecting the property values for yourselves and your neighbors. For those that have a weed infested pig sty yard, is this the way you lived in your previous home without restrictions? Now that said, SHAME ON THE DEVELOPER AND COMMUNITY DISTRICTS that force neighbors to report each other. Every other blasted community have standards folks that drive the neighborhoods and writes up offenders. There is no need to start potential neighborhood feuds over rules THEY created. I'll not report anyone--personal choice, but certainly respect those that do, even if it's not in their own neighborhood. What does that have to do with it? All weed and mildew infested properties reflect badly on The Villages as a whole.
It's sickening. Ron

[Singerlady]

Who appointed these trolls as judge and jury?
Why are the trolls allowed to determine major/minor infractions?
Glad I don’t live in those neighborhoods, that I know of.... I prefer to be a good neighbor, not a RAT, and enjoy life and not patrol.

[Judy n Ron]

Of all the worthwhile things in life to do it Seems a WASTE Of Life’s short time to go around neighborhood Looking to start trouble. They used to call such folks busybodies. Now it’s trolls.
May i suggest you spend time wisely on this Earth helping someone in a grief group at church get through loss of spouse Etc. OR offer a disabled neighbor help with getting groceries, or small cleanup OR go through your own closets/garage to give Items to Goodwill.You can and should do all those things, but still have pride in your property. I don't know that people go 'looking for issues' but when just strolling around, up jumps a mildew and weed infested house, it's just there and you can't un-see it. It's like a train wreck: Horrifying and mesmerizing at the same time.

[Travelhunter]

Always nice to have people informing on their neighbors. Great way to make friends and influence people.
Completely agree. It’s divisive, and creates conflicts

[THUNDERCHIEF]

i will happily report and violations that occur when i see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to seattle, la, detroit, dc or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred clark
sometime people have nothing better to do than to stick their nose in other peoples business. Maybe getting a hobby or a life would be a better choice.

[skip0358]

In a way I'm happy to see the change. But I think everyone should pull out that piece of paper we signed for the happy day when we closed. How many have had landscape work done and assumed the guy putting it in was doing the right thing. Is your raised flower bed the required footage off the property line? Is your rear yard planting the required setback. Are your shrubs or hedges to high, Did we repaint with an approved color.( A friend got nailed 3 years after the new paint job). These are only the big ones that I know people have been nailed for nevermind the little white crosses or the small little yard flags. Been there for sure. Some real stupid little items that I know people have been turned in for. The best was the guy gets turned in and his neighbor had the same violation but since he wasn't turned in there was no problem. I'll mind my yard you mind yours. JMO

[Bob.Betty]

Shouldn't the villages be the ones enforcing the rules? You shouldn't have to report your neighbors

[Joanne19335]

Of all the worthwhile things in life to do it Seems a WASTE Of Life’s short time to go around neighborhood Looking to start trouble. They used to call such folks busybodies. Now it’s trolls.
May i suggest you spend time wisely on this Earth helping someone in a grief group at church get through loss of spouse Etc. OR offer a disabled neighbor help with getting groceries, or small cleanup OR go through your own closets/garage to give Items to Goodwill.

Exactly! Get a life and stay out of my neighborhood!

[DeanFL]

I sat on the board of my neighborhood CDD in Tampa. I love deed restrictions as they help maintain property values. We had a committee who was assigned to periodically go through the community to report violations. This was very effective, was applied to every property equally and did not pit neighbor against neighbor. We were all volunteers.
.
.
.
ABSOLUTELY! I suggested this very same thing in previous Thread on this topic. Good to hear it seems to work there. I believe THIS would be equitable to both sides. I am on the NOT-ANONYMOUS side, but we should observe and control deed restrictions etc.
THIS is a perfect solution IMO.
.
.
.

[Stu from NYC]

I am glad that one area voted to discontinue anonymous complaints. It's more American-like to be able to "face your accuser." Anonymous informing/trolling is so Communist like in nature.
Laws and rules in America ARE flexible in most cases. In the Villages, it does not seem to be the case. I often hear "well, a rule is a rule." Unfortunately, you can see in today's national news plenty of exceptions to that idea.
Thank goodness that my neighborhood does not have the same restrictions that many others do in The Villages. I have neighbors that have their own ideas on how to personalize their property and I find it interesting. I do not agree with those that feel that everything should be the same. Hopefully, that is not going to be construed as being "liberal."
I guess the old saying is true that "misery loves company" because I see many on here agree with the trolls. Don't get me wrong, I do believe in law and order. I just also believe in the idea that all laws and rules being flexible. One law does not require the same exact penalty. After all, we have judges that impose differing penalties to different violators every day. I have seen DUI violators get off with a fine and slap on the wrist. I have seen many violators get off with probation or a warning.
If you want to see a happy neighborhood, drive around until you see one that has yards that are personalized with no two being the same. I drove through a neighborhood recently where one person edged his landscaping with beer bottles. I found it interesting. Not my cup of tea but still interesting and original.
Please do not throw out that same old argument that if everyone did as they pleased, we would have old cars and trucks in front yards. Every situation deserves to be treated separately. If that truck or car does not bother the neighbors then it should not bother those of other neighborhoods that are visiting or just passing through. The local neighbors ought to have the final say, not some outsider.
Why is it that some areas have much more lenient deed restrictions than others? Does it bother you that they do not "conform" to your standards?
Give it a break. Live and let live, because truth be told it doesn't even matter. Why can't folks allow others some peace of mind in their twilight years?
Just a note, I have known folks that complain about deed violations that will walk their dog onto someone else's property to do it's thing. It just goes to show you how much respect they have for others; their neighbors. And yet, they want everyone to "conform."
The other day, a golf cart ran a stop sign and almost caused me to hit him. He did not even acknowledge his mistake. It made me wonder if this is one of the ones that believe in "law and order." He was not the only one. It seems there are many golf cart operators that do not believe that stop signs pertain to golf carts. But I digress.
Final thought; does someone's little gnome, cross or fake bird in their yard really matter that much to you? If so, a bit of introspection may be called for.
Be happy. If you can't, then fake it until it happens to you.

Very very well said

[wiltma]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark
To me, the way around this is that you have to live in the neighborhood that you are complaining about

[Chitown]

I’m picturing both sides of this issue. The problem as I see it is that we shouldn’t have to be in this situation. You would think The Villages would hire 20-25 people who’s job it is to drive each Village, take pictures, and report at the end of their shift any violations. Otherwise why have anyone sign the deed restriction paper when they buy if your not going to patrol your property with your own inspectors for violations. What’s happening here is they are doing it the cheep way. Rely on us to spy and tell on each other. This should not have to be.

[zendog3]

I would not rat out my neighbors even if they painted their house purple.

However, maybe someone who feels strongly should post their phone number and agree to be the designated complainer. Then every person who objects to the occasional purple house could call their complaint into the designated complainer who would turn the offending homeowner.

[kcrazorbackfan]

I just reported one this morning; some idiot put a “Biden” sticker on the gate arm where St. Charles exits to Buena Vista. Hard to see on the arm but for 25 years I was paid to see stupid things that stupid people do.

[seoulbrooks]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark

100% Agree Mr. Clark

[CCristella]

It's very sad that a 18" white cross would **** someone off.

[davem4616]

yup, certainly sounds like we moved to the friendliest home town anywhere around

[kendi]

So you are OK with SOME violations unless you consider them to be serious?

What's minor to some may be major to others. How about we all just comply with the covenants we agreed to?

Then I’m sure those who consider it to be major will report it. OMG. Take a chill pill.

[kendi]

It's very sad that a 18" white cross would **** someone off.

May not be the cross that irritates them, but only the fact that rules were broken.

[eyc234]

Always easy to say there is no problem until it is the house next to you that has the toilet and old car in the front yard. Then the complaints start about the loss of home values and "someone" needs to do something. One thing that could be done is to hold contractors responsible for the infractions they are responsible for putting in place. Contractors can also have customers sign off on changes that break the deed restrictions and hold the resident responsible at that point.

The biggest thing is there are rules and ignorance of the rules is not an excuse especially when there are resources readily available to provide all the information you need.

[Rosie1950]

I’m picturing both sides of this issue. The problem as I see it is that we shouldn’t have to be in this situation. You would think The Villages would hire 20-25 people who’s job it is to drive each Village, take pictures, and report at the end of their shift any violations. Otherwise why have anyone sign the deed restriction paper when they buy if your not going to patrol your property with your own inspectors for violations. What’s happening here is they are doing it the cheep way. Rely on us to spy and tell on each other. This should not have to be.
Totally agree.
We have lived here since 2007. The only complaint I ever made was the dumping of yard waste at the Sable Chase postal station after Irma. I called twice and spoke with Janet Tut. First time I called it was a large pile, second time I called the pile wrapped around the parking area and was as tall as the station.
Ms Tut told me they had posted a request that people NOT do that.
I inquired why since we were paying for yard waste removal and not getting the service, WHY couldn’t the Villages use that money to post employees at the various dumping grounds.
I don’t live in Sable Chase but I was quite offended but that particular sight.
So the poster is correct the Villages really does nothing that might cost them something.
The debris was not taken away till the pick up resumed.
I know, I know there was a problem all over the state with pick up, however that does not negate the continued allowance of dumping at postal stations. ESPECIALLY after complaints.
So to take the stance we need to keep the community standard so it will keep values up, how did THAT LOOK?

[justjim]

JUST SO YOU KNOW.....
CDD 5 supervisors vote to end anonymous complaint system.
I guess you’ll have to find something else to occupy your time. I suggest daily weeding of your property and cutting your lawn with scissors.

The ol’adage “careful what you wish for” sure applies here.

[donassaid]

I think the problem has been "selective" complaints. Some are targeted while others on the same street are left alone. Any anonymous complaints should be completely ignored. You should have to give your name and stand behind our complaint.

[robin.nurse]

I must have missed something. What started this conversation about rules? Seems to me someone just creating controversy. Do tell .

[Two Bills]

Police enforce local law.
Military enforce military law.
My wife eforces our house law.
Why can't TV and CDD enforce their laws?
They have the mobile system and patrols already in place.
All they need is the will to do something, or just drop the deed restrictions in the bin!

[ctmurray]

I’ve lived here over a year and a half and to be honest I don’t even know what the violations would be? I don’t recall being handed a piece of paper saying you can do this and you can’t do this? If I was going to report something it would have to be kind of a commonsense thing. Something that was obviously not right. I would like to know where I can get a copy of what my deed restrictions are? And I also understand that they’re different in different areas? Could it get any more confusing?
You received your deed restrictions when you purchased your home, given at closing. Like most of us the paperwork from closing was not read and is stored into a folder. Here is a link, you need your property ID which is on your Village ID card:

Village Community Development Districts (https://www.districtgov.org/departments/community-standards/download.aspx)

The reason they are different depending on your location is that they have changed over time, items added and likely some removed. They could not "backdate" your covenants but new CDD's have them incorporated. The historic side did not have as many restrictions.

[Jayhawk]

I would not rat out my neighbors even if they painted their house purple.

However, maybe someone who feels strongly should post their phone number and agree to be the designated complainer. Then every person who objects to the occasional purple house could call their complaint into the designated complainer who would turn the offending homeowner.

Isn't that exactly the way it works now?

[DecaturFargo]

Such a juvenile response

[Leadbone1]

You received your deed restrictions when you purchased your home, given at closing. Like most of us the paperwork from closing was not read and is stored into a folder. Here is a link, you need your property ID which is on your Village ID card:

Village Community Development Districts (https://www.districtgov.org/departments/community-standards/download.aspx)

The reason they are different depending on your location is that they have changed over time, items added and likely some removed. They could not "backdate" your covenants but new CDD's have them incorporated. The historic side did not have as many restrictions.

Thank you for that information. I will check it out

[New Englander]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark

Have you ever bent or broken a rule? He who is without sin, cast the first stone.

[Bertram00]

Thankful you do not live in my neighborhood. Why not treat neighbors with respect and consideration? You apparently need a hobby other than trolling.

Are the people violating the deed restrictions treating their neighbors with respect and consideration?

[Jayhawk]

Why can't TV and CDD enforce their laws?


They're not laws. They are deed restrictions and we all agreed to follow them voluntarily. For all those who talk of being a good neighbor but choose not to comply with deed restrictions, you are the problem.

[Fredster]

I don't really care either way. However, you may find appointing yourself deed restriction police, which I don't recommend anyone do, has consequences. It's one thing to complain about something in your own neighborhood. It's quite another to go traversing around The Villages looking for them. Seriously, is your life that dull?

I too would wonder about the type of person that would go around looking for deed restriction violations beyond their own street or village!
I’m aware of a number of restriction violations on my own street, but in my opinion they are not ugly, in fact if they were dealt with it would not be as nice aesthetically.
The other thing to consider if I reported them all, it would create a lot of bad feelings.
And most likely they do not even know they
are in violation.
Personally I’m in favor of deed restrictions, but I believe the purely complaint driven system results in random/uneven enforcement.

[Fredster]

They're not laws. They are deed restrictions and we all agreed to follow them voluntarily. For all those who talk of being a good neighbor but choose not to comply with deed restrictions, you are the problem.

I believe there are some home owners in TV
that aren’t even aware that they have a deed restriction violation on their property!
So they might not even know they are so terrible!

[Troopie]

I'll never understand some peoples' need to report these things. It's one thing if someone has placed something that's blatantly offensive or unsafe in their yard. But, that's not what's happening here. These people are actively looking for things to report. The whole thing is very childish, and it causes a lot of animosity. Why not just live, and let live?

[Jayhawk]

Have you ever bent or broken a rule? He who is without sin, cast the first stone.

They do. You (and others) call them trolls.

[Jayhawk]

I believe there are some home owners in TV
that aren’t even aware that they have a deed restriction violation on their property!
So they might not even know they are so terrible!

That's why someone knocks on their door to let them know.

They don't call out people who are in compliance. Only vilations.

[rmd2]

I’m picturing both sides of this issue. The problem as I see it is that we shouldn’t have to be in this situation. You would think The Villages would hire 20-25 people who’s job it is to drive each Village, take pictures, and report at the end of their shift any violations. Otherwise why have anyone sign the deed restriction paper when they buy if your not going to patrol your property with your own inspectors for violations. What’s happening here is they are doing it the cheep way. Rely on us to spy and tell on each other. This should not have to be.

I think neighborhood watch should be doing this.

[Jayhawk]

Why not just live, and let live?

Because we ALL agreed to comply. If I and most others didn't want deed restrictions, we would have moved somewhere without them.

[Fredster]

I'll never understand some peoples' need to report these things. It's one thing if someone has placed something that's blatantly offensive or unsafe in their yard. But, that's not what's happening here. These people are actively looking for things to report. The whole thing is very childish, and it causes a lot of animosity. Why not just live, and let live?

If this change cuts down on people
looking all over TV for violations as a hobby
I’m all for it!

[Jayhawk]

If this change cuts down on people
looking all over TV for violations as a hobby
I’m all for it!

Serious question - Why do you care, if you are not a violater? How are you affected as someone in compliance?

[Challenger]

Actually in a way I agree with you that someone has to enforce deed restrictions. But it wouldn’t be me unless it was a serious violation.Totally untrolls
By whose opinion will we determine which violation is serious enough to be acted on. Such a determination would render all unenforceable . I am opposed to all violations, and support "trolls" if that is what is needed to assure compliance.

[Challenger]

The word is “RAT” not inform!

This post is the kind of reaction that illustrates why anonymity is needed.

[Fredster]

Serious question - Why do you care, if you are not a violater? How are you affected as someone in compliance?

Read what I posted, and I’ve had experience to back up my opinion, which is as valid as yours!
Maybe as I’ve aged I’m not as rigid as some!

[chrisinva]

I’m picturing both sides of this issue. The problem as I see it is that we shouldn’t have to be in this situation. You would think The Villages would hire 20-25 people who’s job it is to drive each Village, take pictures, and report at the end of their shift any violations. Otherwise why have anyone sign the deed restriction paper when they buy if your not going to patrol your property with your own inspectors for violations. What’s happening here is they are doing it the cheep way. Rely on us to spy and tell on each other. This should not have to be.

The Village Watch people are already paid to drive around neighborhoods 24/7. Couldn't they report violations? And if a homeowner saw a violation, how about if they call Village Watch to file complaint, anonymously or otherwise?

[Curtisbwp]

I am a person who does not run to protection behind the police. I do not go to mommy and daddy, simply put i approach the issue head on, face to face, man to man.

[doodles]

I don’t think anyone should have the right to report. Community Watch rides around all day and night, they should be the only ones reporting violations

[mtlee024]

You mean neighbors who break the covenants and restrictions we all agreed to?

What should someone do if say, a neighbor puts in an above ground metal pool? Or puts a car up on blocks. Is that OK or should you be able to report it to a deed violation department?

Why not talk to the neighbor first, they may not know they are in violation.

[Jayhawk]

I don’t think anyone should have the right to report. Community Watch rides around all day and night, they should be the only ones reporting violations

All residents should have the right as they ALL agreed to the covenants. Community Watch is riding "around all day" for resident safety, not for deed issues.

[Jayhawk]

Why not talk to the neighbor first, they may not know they are in violation.

Then the guy knocking on the door from compliance is doing them a favor, while there isn't going to be bad blood with the neighbor using the current system. If I accidentally violate, I would hate to inconvenience a neighbor by requiring them to be the ones to tell me.

[pattytracey]

Well I like it here but the complaints are annoying I prefer my freedom to choose some like control

[Thetwisted2]

Tried to get a permit to widen my driveway 4 feet at my patio villa, I was told 2 ft was the maximum allowed. There are around 7 driveways in my neighborhood that have exceeded the 2 ft maximum and look nice. I am going to have mine widen 2 ft and live by their rules.

[Jayhawk]

Well I like it here but the complaints are annoying I prefer my freedom to choose some like control

Then you should not have moved to a deed-restricted community where likely 98% of the residents understand compliance is not only a requirement, it is also an ethical obligation to others.

[Jayhawk]

Tried to get a permit to widen my driveway 4 feet at my patio villa, I was told 2 ft was the maximum allowed. There are around 7 driveways in my neighborhood that have exceeded the 2 ft maximum and look nice. I am going to have mine widen 2 ft and live by their rules.

Good for you . You are the kind of neighbor I'd want to live near.

:clap2:

[JoeinFL]

yup, certainly sounds like we moved to the friendliest home town anywhere around

Definitely makes me wonder sometimes.

[Two Bills]

They're not laws. They are deed restrictions and we all agreed to follow them voluntarily. For all those who talk of being a good neighbor but choose not to comply with deed restrictions, you are the problem.

Deed restrictions, rules, laws, covenants, whatever, if the people who make them can't/wont enforce them, they are not worth the paper they wrote them on.
The present 'voluntary' enforcement system is a joke.
Enforce all of the restrictions, change them, or dump them!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

If my property has something offensive to a neighbor, I hope the neighbor will find a way to politely bring it to my attention, so that I can alter or eliminate the offense, rather than stew on it and create hostility between us. Or, if they aren't comfortable bringing it up to me, then sure a compliance report would be in order.

What I don't want, is someone from two towns away, driving to my neighborhood LOOKING for problems to report, and reporting them. That is what I object to.

The fact remains, these are public roads, and there are many non-Villages citizens of three counties who would love nothing more than to create a hostile environment for residents of the Villages. People whose families came from these counties, who are not transplants from somewhere else, who have had to watch the Villages do well while the county does nothing about the potholes on their own street.

So I totally GET that there are "outsiders" with an axe to grind. But that's the thing. We have to recognize that there are people who want to make trouble, in neighborhoods where people are peacefully co-existing. That is the #1 reason WHY I feel that complaints about deed compliance needs to a) be anonymous TO THE RESIDENT but NOT to the Compliance people and b) needs to come from an actual Villager, in the same county, if not in the same village.

[Huskies]

I will happily report and violations that occur when I see them. I have no problem using my full name and address.

If you don't agree then just don't violate the deed restrictions you agreed to when buying your house.

This isn't rocket science. There are people who don't like those who report them or others. They seem to feel it's their right even though they signed on the dotted line without coercion. They call people "troll's"...accuse them of being power hungry. The fact is they're in the wrong and don't like being called to account.

Perhaps moving to Seattle, LA, Detroit, DC or any other metropolitan area would be preferable.

I love it here and hope the "trolls" continue to act even if it means giving their name/address. If you have trouble with those that whine just give a call out. The common sense people will help you.

Fred Clark
Would you like to live next door to the house on the corner of Enrique and Chapparell with all the fake flowers and pinwheels? I think not.

[Stu from NYC]

[QUOTE=Mfrench;1823199]

Shame on neighbors who violate the deed covenants THEY agreed to.

Would be willing to bet that most of these violations are by people who have no idea they are doing this. Thinking some people just have too much idle time on their hands.

[Jayhawk]

Would be willing to bet that most of these violations are by people who have no idea they are doing this.

Then they shouldn't have ANY problems being notified by the compliance people from The Villages. If they do have a problem, then they don't give a damn about the covenants they signed or their neighbors.

[GoPacers]

They're not laws. They are deed restrictions and we all agreed to follow them voluntarily. For all those who talk of being a good neighbor but choose not to comply with deed restrictions, you are the problem.

BINGO! It's funny how people rush to defend those that are not in compliance with the deed restrictions and then seek to blame anyone that identifies such non-compliance. It really doesn't matter who reports the non-compliance. If such non-compliance didn't exist there would be absolutely ZERO reason for any related confrontation between neighbors.

You bought a house in The Villages and you knew the rules when you purchased it. Ignorance is no excuse. It doesn't matter that anyone "thinks" something is OK. If it's against the deed restrictions then case closed until such time the restrictions are amended. Some people like astroturf - I think it looks like it belongs in a trailer park. Some people like white crosses - I don't personally have an issue but they are against the rules. Some people like purple houses - I think purple is an horrid color for a house. We all have opinions and nobody's opinion is worth more than anyone elses. That's why there are deed restrictions.

A good neighbor is one who is in compliance and one who does help to make sure the other homes are in compliance. Homes in The Villages are very expensive compared to many/most other locales. The deed restrictions are one of the reasons the homes hold their value and we should all be in favor of those efforts to maintain home values.

It's very easy to be in compliance. It simply takes a bit of reading comprehension and then submitting plans for approval to the ARC when in doubt.

One of the oddest behaviors I've seen in The Villages is the constant trolling of "the mythical, magical compliance trolls."

[Challenger]

BINGO! It's funny how people rush to defend those that are not in compliance with the deed restrictions and then seek to blame anyone that identifies such non-compliance. It really doesn't matter who reports the non-compliance. If such non-compliance didn't exist there would be absolutely ZERO reason for any related confrontation between neighbors.

You bought a house in The Villages and you knew the rules when you purchased it. Ignorance is no excuse. It doesn't matter that anyone "thinks" something is OK. If it's against the deed restrictions then case closed until such time the restrictions are amended. Some people like astroturf - I think it looks like it belongs in a trailer park. Some people like white crosses - I don't personally have an issue but they are against the rules. Some people like purple houses - I think purple is an horrid color for a house. We all have opinions and nobody's opinion is worth more than anyone elses. That's why there are deed restrictions.

A good neighbor is one who is in compliance and one who does help to make sure the other homes are in compliance. Homes in The Villages are very expensive compared to many/most other locales. The deed restrictions are one of the reasons the homes hold their value and we should all be in favor of those efforts to maintain home values.

It's very easy to be in compliance. It simply takes a bit of reading comprehension and then submitting plans for approval to the ARC when in doubt.

One of the oddest behaviors I've seen in The Villages is the constant trolling of "the mythical, magical compliance trolls."

And they are enforceable in court by any property owner who owns real estate that is also subject to the same deed restrictions (in same CDD)

[newgirl]

Amen

[Challenger]

Amen

and I suspect a class action would be upheld since none of the restrictions that I read violate any Florida law or public policy. I don't believe that a CDD decision can allow a violation to stand if brought to their attention. I believe that it would require a 100 per cent agreement by all property owners subject to the restriction. There may be a supermajority provision however. ( be glad to hear from someone if my statements are incorrect -but give citations .

[Velvet]

Of all the worthwhile things in life to do it Seems a WASTE Of Life’s short time to go around neighborhood Looking to start trouble. They used to call such folks busybodies. Now it’s trolls.
May i suggest you spend time wisely on this Earth helping someone in a grief group at church get through loss of spouse Etc. OR offer a disabled neighbor help with getting groceries, or small cleanup OR go through your own closets/garage to give Items to Goodwill.

The trouble makers are the people who are committing the violations, and when they can’t get away with it they start screaming, even calling on religion etc. and name calling like the way criminals do when they are caught. I find it difficult to have a great deal of sympathy.

[GPGuar]

I have said this for the last 9 years we've lived here: Shame on you who violate the restrictions. Have you no pride in curb appeal? You are affecting the property values for yourselves and your neighbors. For those that have a weed infested pig sty yard, is this the way you lived in your previous home without restrictions? Now that said, SHAME ON THE DEVELOPER AND COMMUNITY DISTRICTS that force neighbors to report each other. Every other blasted community have standards folks that drive the neighborhoods and writes up offenders. There is no need to start potential neighborhood feuds over rules THEY created. I'll not report anyone--personal choice, but certainly respect those that do, even if it's not in their own neighborhood. What does that have to do with it? All weed and mildew infested properties reflect badly on The Villages as a whole.
It's sickening. Ron

You say going into someone else’s neighborhood has nothing to do with anything. I say if the neighbors in the area have no problem with what is being done then people from the outside of the neighborhood should mind their own business. It should all be about neighbors not people from three villages away that have absolutely nothing to do with the area.

[Jayhawk]

The trouble makers are the people who are committing the violations, and when they can’t get away with it they start screaming, even calling on religion etc. and name calling like the way criminals do when they are caught. I find it difficult to have a great deal of sympathy.

:BigApplause:

[JoMar]

and I suspect a class action would be upheld since none of the restrictions that I read violate any Florida law or public policy. I don't believe that a CDD decision can allow a violation to stand if brought to their attention. I believe that it would require a 100 per cent agreement by all property owners subject to the restriction. There may be a supermajority provision however. ( be glad to hear from someone if my statements are incorrect -but give citations .

Ever live in a place with an HOA?

[Challenger]

Ever live in a place with an HOA?

Three , in fact.

[Topspinmo]

So it's OK to complain about deed violations only "in you’re own district" but rag about apartments all over The Villages. Isn't that hypocritical?


Yes! After all it MY OPINION:popcorn:

[merrymini]

You signed onto deed restrictions when you bought here so obey the rules. I would prefer to see people from other districts enforce the rules. I bought here BECAUSE of those restrictions and paid more for it. The rules changed because the older districts allowed more to be put out. Rules are to protect the neighborhood. You can easily go outside the villages and take a good look at what happens when you do not have them. Reading these reactions tells me a great deal about how many nasty, selfish people are on this site. Amazing.

[Topspinmo]

I have said this for the last 9 years we've lived here: Shame on you who violate the restrictions. Have you no pride in curb appeal? You are affecting the property values for yourselves and your neighbors. For those that have a weed infested pig sty yard, is this the way you lived in your previous home without restrictions? Now that said, SHAME ON THE DEVELOPER AND COMMUNITY DISTRICTS that force neighbors to report each other. Every other blasted community have standards folks that drive the neighborhoods and writes up offenders. There is no need to start potential neighborhood feuds over rules THEY created. I'll not report anyone--personal choice, but certainly respect those that do, even if it's not in their own neighborhood. What does that have to do with it? All weed and mildew infested properties reflect badly on The Villages as a whole.
It's sickening. Ron

Village’s s kinda big for that?

[Villageswimmer]

Tried to get a permit to widen my driveway 4 feet at my patio villa, I was told 2 ft was the maximum allowed. There are around 7 driveways in my neighborhood that have exceeded the 2 ft maximum and look nice. I am going to have mine widen 2 ft and live by their rules.

Good for you! Be sure to keep a copy of your ARC approval paperwork so it’s readily available when you wish to sell your home. It could avoid a hassle.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

and I suspect a class action would be upheld since none of the restrictions that I read violate any Florida law or public policy. I don't believe that a CDD decision can allow a violation to stand if brought to their attention. I believe that it would require a 100 per cent agreement by all property owners subject to the restriction. There may be a supermajority provision however. ( be glad to hear from someone if my statements are incorrect -but give citations .

Then you haven't read the laws or compared them to the deed restrictions. I've pointed out two previously, so have a couple of other people, on several different occasions.

One being the antennae/satellite dish issue. The other being clotheslines in the back yard.

Look it up. Florida law FORBIDS deed restrictions that restrict either one. It is against the law for the Villages to punish anyone who chooses to have a clothesline in their back yard, or a satellite dish on their roof.

[askcarl]

If the neighbors don't have an issue, no foul. New neighbor moves in and don't likey, file a complaint. You'll know a major violation. Be a good Duck and let the small stuff run off your back.

It's called "getting along" with everyone in the group. Community.

[eyc234]

How about we put out a call for all of the magical, double top secret, invisible and stealth golf cart equipped "trolls" to come in for job interviews to become official licensed paid trolls. They can then come out from the shadows, get tablets instead of clipboards, not be ostracized and perform the job that they seem to be better at than anyone else.

[Number 10 GI]

I’m picturing both sides of this issue. The problem as I see it is that we shouldn’t have to be in this situation. You would think The Villages would hire 20-25 people who’s job it is to drive each Village, take pictures, and report at the end of their shift any violations. Otherwise why have anyone sign the deed restriction paper when they buy if your not going to patrol your property with your own inspectors for violations. What’s happening here is they are doing it the cheep way. Rely on us to spy and tell on each other. This should not have to be.

The Villages already has someone driving in each village, the community watch patrol. Noting violations could easily be one of their tasks.

[Number 10 GI]

May not be the cross that irritates them, but only the fact that rules were broken.

I see rules broken all the time in TV but I don't get my underwear all in a wad worrying about it. I have more than enough worries about things that really matter so I ignore the trivial ones.

[Challenger]

Then you haven't read the laws or compared them to the deed restrictions. I've pointed out two previously, so have a couple of other people, on several different occasions.

One being the antennae/satellite dish issue. The other being clotheslines in the back yard.

Look it up. Florida law FORBIDS deed restrictions that restrict either one. It is against the law for the Villages to punish anyone who chooses to have a clothesline in their back yard, or a satellite dish on their roof.

Both of those exceptions were , I believe, imposed by the Florida legislature after the deed restrictions were recorded. So your examples are inappropriately described. Show me a case where the deed restrictions in the Villages were not upheld by the courts other than those that were preempted by subsequent laws.

[Topspinmo]

The trouble makers are the people who are committing the violations, and when they can’t get away with it they start screaming, even calling on religion etc. and name calling like the way criminals do when they are caught. I find it difficult to have a great deal of sympathy.

White crosses very small part of deed restrictions problems. The system don’t have to be so trolly. Only problem I have with deed restrictions are resales, there no way new buyer knows whether the property they are buying IAW all deed restrictions. Some got hit for major stuff that was done years ago. Not some lawn ornaments, but something that cost thousands. They shouldn’t be responsible when it should of been fixed before they brought. As much as closing costs cost seller this should be mandatory requirement in deed restrictions community before house offered for sale.

[Velvet]

White crosses very small part of deed restrictions problems. The system don’t have to be so trolly. Only problem I have with deed restrictions are resales, there no way new buyer knows whether the property they are buying IAW all deed restrictions. Some got hit for major stuff that was done years ago. Not some lawn ornaments, but something that cost thousands. They shouldn’t be responsible when it should of been fixed before they brought. As much as closing costs cost seller this should be mandatory requirement in deed restrictions community before house offered for sale.

I agree in part. But when I bought I had 2 different home inspectors check the resale property for everything. They have been working for The Villagers for decades and must know the deed restrictions so when they wrote and said the home was in compliance they would have been in trouble if it hadn’t been. It is also simple to add a clause to the sales agreement that the home is bought with all deed restrictions adhered to. So if something was out of compliance the seller would have to fix it first. As some buyers maybe from different states or countries they might miss something themselves.

[Arlington123]

Many who favor ending anonymous reporting have violations to hide. I suspect they’ve been turned in for violations before. Ending anonymous reporting will force your neighbors or others to report you. It will get very ugly very fast if you know who reported you. I know this from experience. It will pitt neighbors vs neighbors...sides will be taken and the friendliest hometown will be no more. The outcome will be less reporting overall, but is it worth it? Isn’t the right thing to do is just follow the restrictions, like we all legally agreed to? Why is this so hard?

I don’t believe there are trolls out there reporting violations, I suspect it’s your neighbors reporting you and I think you believe that to. Even if there is a troll outside your neighborhood making theses complaints, we all live in the villages and they also have a stake in maintaining our beautiful community. Should CDD 5 be our first village slum, I mean every big city has one...why not us! Really?

Where will your neighbors and others draw the line on violations before they report you, cars jacked up in your driveway, RVs and cars parked in the street for months on end, adding lean-tos or who knows what other things people can come up with.

Many of you are referring to small things like statues and yard decorations. What harm are they you ask. What if someone has 50 yard decorations in their yard, when is it too much? FYI, these small items make excellent projectiles in a hurricane or tornado and can cause massive damage and hurt folks, I’ve seen it happen here in the Villages.

If we don’t like a particular restriction then we have an avenue to get it changed through the CDD boards working with Community Standards. Why throw the baby out with the bath water?

When I first moved here, community watch was the watch dog who reported violations. Our CDD government system abdicated their responsibility by making it a residents responsibility. Who gave them the right to do this? Do the CDD boards work for you or is it the other way around. Our system of governance should work for the benefit of residents, not the other way around. All CDD boards in the Villages should demand that Community standards take back the responsibility of finding and correcting violations.

The bad news is if you have violations you will eventually be caught regardless of the method of reporting. Follow the restrictions or try to get it changed through your CDD board. It’s the right thing to do.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Both of those exceptions were , I believe, imposed by the Florida legislature after the deed restrictions were recorded. So your examples are inappropriately described. Show me a case where the deed restrictions in the Villages were not upheld by the courts other than those that were preempted by subsequent laws.

Irrelevant. The deed restrictions still forbid homeowners from putting up clotheslines and antennae on their roofs. New homeowners get these restrictions, sign to abide by them, and are expected to obey deed restrictions.

My point is - that isn't always true. It currently isn't true. They CANNOT be expected to abide by some of those currently-existing deed restrictions that they signed to obey, because the Villages and CDD are not ALLOWED by law to enforce them. I'll bet there's no addenda sent to new homeowners to let them know about that.

[mamamia54]

Tried to get a permit to widen my driveway 4 feet at my patio villa, I was told 2 ft was the maximum allowed. There are around 7 driveways in my neighborhood that have exceeded the 2 ft maximum and look nice. I am going to have mine widen 2 ft and live by their rules.

Maybe widen it 2 ft on each side, lol. JUST KIDDING, trying to lighten up this subject!

[Ladygolfer93]

Actually in a way I agree with you that someone has to enforce deed restrictions. But it wouldn’t be me unless it was a serious violation.

Totally agree ! If there is some really serious problem, but I've been here so long I've found when something is that profound, something has happened; a death, bankruptcy, serious illness and no one knew that person was in a hospital out of the area, etc. etc. By "trolls", I think people who, for lack of entertainment, go out and look for a small cross, or a flag, a for sale sign (other than if the for sale sign is a villages one), or some small offensive garden ornament or plant container. There are those types of people too..... not me, I have far too much work to do in my own home and yard to go try to "catch" my neighbors doing some forbidden offense.. LOL, or even "trolling" to find people not wearing masks, or just plain enjoying themselves with friends. But, I guess in China there is a payoff to it, some say they get a "reward" for turning in "offenders", who knows. My humble opinion, when people fill out complaints with name, phone, address, etc, it WILL be for a very serious situation, not a small white cross or a garden ornament.

[Challenger]

Irrelevant. The deed restrictions still forbid homeowners from putting up clotheslines and antennae on their roofs. New homeowners get these restrictions, sign to abide by them, and are expected to obey deed restrictions.

My point is - that isn't always true. It currently isn't true. They CANNOT be expected to abide by some of those currently-existing deed restrictions that they signed to obey, because the Villages and CDD are not ALLOWED by law to enforce them. I'll bet there's no addenda sent to new homeowners to let them know about that.

The fact that you dont accept the answer is irrelevant . Those restrictions that have not been preempted by law are still fully enforceable.

[NatureBoy]

My point is - that isn't always true. It currently isn't true. They CANNOT be expected to abide by some of those currently-existing deed restrictions that they signed to obey, because the Villages and CDD are not ALLOWED by law to enforce them. I'll bet there's no addenda sent to new homeowners to let them know about that.
It should be illegal to have invalid/illegal clauses in deed restrictions. And a buyer should be able to take the deed restrictions to a lawyer to line out any invalid restrictions.
Things like the clothesline and antenna issues are well known. Having them in there only intimidates ignorant buyers.
The recent growing food in front yards law ought to force some changes to deed restrictions.