So when I decided to build new I went with a tract home in suburban ___ville. I wasn't aware at the time, but the developer had established a homeowners association before starting the neighborhood. When he handed the control of the association over to the "board", the trouble began.

These people don't know much about home development and admittedly neither do I, but I do know that some of the things they are restricting are seriously foolish.

I want to put solar panels on my southern roof exposure. NOT ALLOWED. I want to put a clothes line in the back yard. NOT ALLOWED. I want to install rain barrels at the base of my downspouts. NOT ALLOWED. *&^%!!!!!.

What am I supposed to do?

Bob, I can feel your pain. I have an HOA too and it just pisses me off. I don't get how other people can tell me what I can and can't do with the property I own. I understand pressuring your neighbors and wanting everyone to value the area as much as the next person, but its not their place.

What can I do though. I love my house and I take care of it.

I have tried my part to fight the system from the inside, but I burned a few bridges early and now I can't get on the board. They have caught wind of my plans. My advice to you is to play nice, try to get into a position of power and then try to make changes that are less restrictive yet beneficial to the owners as a whole.

Good luck, and down with HOAs