Question:
We live at Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbor Fl. There are private residents and units that Innisbrook rents out to their guests on a daily basis,
For the past year we have had vandalism in our building on the 3rd floor.
1) Ringing our door bell & banging on our door. We reported it our HOA and nothing was done.
2) We put up a security camera & caught the kids. Gave video to our HOA. Kids still walk by & wave at the camera, but no vandalism.
3) We were told by HOA to take down our Camera. Told us that Innisbrook is not a hotel (which it is).
4) Someone now is spraying painting the walls and doors on the 1st floor. HOA & Sheriff’s department came by to look at the video.
Question is do we have to take down camera?
Regards,
– Don
Answer:
Hi Don,
In Florida, whether your HOA can legally require you to remove your security camera depends on two key factors: what your governing documents say about surveillance equipment and whether the camera is installed in a limited common element or on common property.
If your camera is located inside your unit, pointed outward (such as from a peephole or window), the HOA typically cannot prohibit it. However, if the camera is mounted in a hallway, exterior wall, or shared corridor, it may be considered a modification of common elements. In that case, many associations require prior approval or prohibit it entirely.
If your governing documents don’t outright prohibit such cameras, you may have grounds to challenge their demand. You can start by submitting a formal written request asking for an explanation of the policy being enforced and which provision of the CC&Rs it falls under.
Disclaimer: We are not lawyers. The information provided on this website does not constitute legal advice.
