Keith W. Cunningham v. The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium

Case Summary

Case ID 24F-H008-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2024-01-11
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome yes
Filing Fees Refunded $1,000.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Keith W. Cunningham Counsel
Respondent The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC Counsel Allison Preston

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1258
CC&Rs Section 8.1.1

Outcome Summary

Petitioner's petition is granted. Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 by failing to provide requested records within 10 business days. Respondent violated CC&Rs Section 8.1.1 by failing to maintain insurance coverage equal to 100% of the replacement cost and failing to meet specific liability limits. Respondent is ordered to reimburse Petitioner's $1,000.00 filing fee and comply with the statute and CC&Rs going forward.

Key Issues & Findings

Records Request

Petitioner alleged Respondent failed to provide financial records and vendor contracts (Epic Valet, FirstService Residential, landscaping) within the statutory timeframe. The ALJ found Respondent failed to provide the documents within 10 business days of the July 10, 2023 request and subsequent July 24, 2023 request.

Orders: Respondent shall comply with A.R.S. § 33-1258 going forward.

Filing fee: $1,000.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258

Insurance Coverage

Petitioner alleged Respondent failed to maintain required insurance coverage. The ALJ found Respondent's property insurance coverage ($59M) was below the appraised replacement cost ($73M) and the general liability limits did not strictly comply with CC&Rs requirements despite an umbrella policy.

Orders: Respondent shall comply with Section 8.1.1 of the CC&Rs going forward.

Filing fee: $0.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • CC&Rs Section 8.1.1

Analytics Highlights

Topics: Records Request, Insurance Coverage, Condominium, Contracts, Vendor Contracts, Replacement Cost
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • CC&Rs Section 8.1.1

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1099767.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:01 (46.1 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1101587.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:03 (49.0 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1119643.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:04 (47.5 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1121917.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:06 (39.3 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1132963.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:07 (188.5 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1149691.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:08 (39.1 KB)





Briefing Doc – 24F-H008-REL


{
“case”: {
“docket_no”: “24F-H008-REL”,
“case_title”: “In the Matter of Keith W. Cunningham v The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”,
“decision_date”: “2024-01-11”,
“tribunal”: “OAH”,
“agency”: “ADRE”
},
“individuals”: [
{
“name”: “Keith W. Cunningham”,
“role”: “petitioner”,
“side”: “petitioner”,
“affiliation”: null,
“notes”: null
},
{
“name”: “Allison Preston”,
“role”: “HOA attorney”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen LLP”,
“notes”: “Represented The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”
},
{
“name”: “Kyle von Johnson”,
“role”: “HOA attorney”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: null,
“notes”: “Represented The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”
},
{
“name”: “Mark Teman”,
“role”: “board member”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: null,
“notes”: “Association President, witness”
},
{
“name”: “Allison Renow”,
“role”: “property manager”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “First Service Residential”,
“notes”: “General Manager (GM) on site”
},
{
“name”: “Frank Durso”,
“role”: “regional manager”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “First Service Residential”,
“notes”: null
},
{
“name”: “Jamie George”,
“role”: “VP of Insurance”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “First Service Financial”,
“notes”: “Assists with association insurance policies”
},
{
“name”: “Holly McNelte”,
“role”: “management staff”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “First Service Residential”,
“notes”: “FSR team member who managed documents/files”
},
{
“name”: “Jonathan Henley”,
“role”: “insurance broker”,
“side”: “neutral”,
“affiliation”: “Gallagher”,
“notes”: null
},
{
“name”: “Brian Del Vecchio”,
“role”: “ALJ”,
“side”: “neutral”,
“affiliation”: “OAH”,
“notes”: “Administrative Law Judge who conducted the hearing (12/8/23)”
},
{
“name”: “Tammy L. Eigenheer”,
“role”: “ALJ”,
“side”: “neutral”,
“affiliation”: “OAH”,
“notes”: “Administrative Law Judge who wrote the decision”
},
{
“name”: “Susan Nicolson”,
“role”: “Commissioner”,
“side”: “neutral”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: null
},
{
“name”: “AHansen”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “vnunez”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “djones”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “labril”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “mneat”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “akowaleski”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “gosborn”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
}
]
}

{ “case”: { “agency”: “ADRE”, “tribunal”: “OAH”, “docket_no”: “24F-H008-REL”, “case_title”: “In the Matter of Keith W. Cunningham v The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”, “decision_date”: “2024-01-11”, “alj_name”: “Tammy L. Eigenheer” }, “parties”: [ { “party_id”: “P1”, “role”: “petitioner”, “name”: “Keith W. Cunningham”, “party_type”: “homeowner”, “email”: “[email protected]”, “phone”: null, “attorney_name”: null, “attorney_firm”: null, “attorney_email”: null, “attorney_phone”: null }, { “party_id”: “R1”, “role”: “respondent”, “name”: “The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”, “party_type”: “HOA”, “email”: null, “phone”: null, “attorney_name”: “Allison Preston”, “attorney_firm”: “Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen LLP”, “attorney_email”: “[email protected]”, “attorney_phone”: null } ], “issues”: [ { “issue_id”: “ISS-001”, “type”: “statute”, “citation”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258”, “caption”: “Records Request”, “violation(s)”: “Failure to provide requested financial records and contracts within 10 business days”, “summary”: “Petitioner alleged Respondent failed to provide financial records and vendor contracts (Epic Valet, FirstService Residential, landscaping) within the statutory timeframe. The ALJ found Respondent failed to provide the documents within 10 business days of the July 10, 2023 request and subsequent July 24, 2023 request.”, “outcome”: “petitioner_win”, “filing_fee_paid”: 1000.0, “filing_fee_refunded”: true, “civil_penalty_amount”: 0.0, “orders_summary”: “Respondent shall comply with A.R.S. § 33-1258 going forward.”, “why_the_loss”: null, “cited”: [“A.R.S. § 33-1258”] }, { “issue_id”: “ISS-002”, “type”: “governing_documents”, “citation”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “caption”: “Insurance Coverage”, “violation(s)”: “Failure to maintain property insurance equal to 100% of replacement cost and general liability insurance limits as required”, “summary”: “Petitioner alleged Respondent failed to maintain required insurance coverage. The ALJ found Respondent’s property insurance coverage (59M)wasbelowtheappraisedreplacementcost(73M) and the general liability limits did not strictly comply with CC&Rs requirements despite an umbrella policy.”, “outcome”: “petitioner_win”, “filing_fee_paid”: 0.0, “filing_fee_refunded”: false, “civil_penalty_amount”: 0.0, “orders_summary”: “Respondent shall comply with Section 8.1.1 of the CC&Rs going forward.”, “why_the_loss”: null, “cited”: [“CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”] } ], “money_summary”: { “issues_count”: 2, “total_filing_fees_paid”: 1000.0, “total_filing_fees_refunded”: 1000.0, “total_civil_penalties”: 0.0 }, “outcomes”: { “petitioner_is_hoa”: false, “petitioner_win”: “yes”, “summarize_judgement”: “Petitioner’s petition is granted. Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 by failing to provide requested records within 10 business days. Respondent violated CC&Rs Section 8.1.1 by failing to maintain insurance coverage equal to 100% of the replacement cost and failing to meet specific liability limits. Respondent is ordered to reimburse Petitioner’s $1,000.00 filing fee and comply with the statute and CC&Rs going forward.”, “why_the_loss”: null }, “analytics”: { “cited”: [“A.R.S. § 33-1258”, “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”], “tags”: [“Records Request”, “Insurance Coverage”, “Condominium”, “Contracts”, “Vendor Contracts”, “Replacement Cost”] } }






Study Guide – 24F-H008-REL


{ “case”: { “docket_no”: “24F-H008-REL”, “case_title”: “Keith W. Cunningham v The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”, “decision_date”: “2024-01-11”, “alj_name”: “Tammy L. Eigenheer”, “tribunal”: “OAH”, “agency”: “ADRE” }, “questions”: [ { “question”: “How many days does my HOA have to provide records after I request them?”, “short_answer”: “The HOA has 10 business days to fulfill a request for examination of records.”, “detailed_answer”: “According to Arizona law cited in the decision, an association must make financial and other records reasonably available for examination within ten business days of a member’s request.”, “alj_quote”: “The association shall have ten business days to fulfill a request for examination.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)”, “topic_tags”: [ “records request”, “deadlines”, “A.R.S. § 33-1258” ] }, { “question”: “Can my HOA claim they don’t have to provide specific contracts if they are not uploaded to the web portal?”, “short_answer”: “No. If the records exist and aren’t privileged, the HOA must make them available for examination, regardless of whether they are on a portal.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this case, the HOA failed to provide signed vendor contracts that existed, claiming they provided what was on the portal. The ALJ found that failing to provide these specific requested documents constituted a violation.”, “alj_quote”: “Respondent did not assert or establish that any of the requested documents were subject to any of the exceptions provided for in statute. Accordingly, Petitioner was entitled to examine those documents.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258”, “topic_tags”: [ “records request”, “contracts”, “online portal” ] }, { “question”: “If my CC&Rs require specific insurance liability limits, does an umbrella policy count towards meeting them?”, “short_answer”: “Not necessarily. The ALJ ruled that a base policy lower than the CC&R requirement was non-compliant, even with a large umbrella policy.”, “detailed_answer”: “The CC&Rs required $3,000,000 per occurrence. The HOA had $1,000,000 coverage plus a $50,000,000 umbrella. The ALJ ruled the general liability insurance was not in compliance because the specific base limit was not met.”, “alj_quote”: “While Respondent had an umbrella policy in addition to the general liability insurance, Respondent’s general liability insurance was not in compliance with the applicable CC&Rs.”, “legal_basis”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “topic_tags”: [ “insurance”, “compliance”, “CC&Rs” ] }, { “question”: “Must the HOA insure the building for its full replacement cost?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, if the CC&Rs state the insurance must equal 100% of the current replacement cost.”, “detailed_answer”: “The HOA obtained an appraisal showing a replacement cost of $73 million but maintained coverage of only $59 million. The ALJ found this violated the CC&Rs requirement for 100% replacement cost coverage.”, “alj_quote”: “Accordingly, Respondent’s property insurance was not in compliance with the applicable CC&Rs at the time the petition was filed.”, “legal_basis”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “topic_tags”: [ “insurance”, “property value”, “CC&Rs” ] }, { “question”: “Will I get my filing fee back if I win the hearing?”, “short_answer”: “The ALJ has the authority to order the HOA to reimburse the filing fee if the petition is granted.”, “detailed_answer”: “After granting the petition and finding the HOA in violation, the judge specifically ordered the respondent to pay back the petitioner’s filing fee.”, “alj_quote”: “IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner his $1,000.00 filing fee.”, “legal_basis”: “Order”, “topic_tags”: [ “remedies”, “filing fees”, “costs” ] }, { “question”: “What happens if I accidentally cite the wrong statute number in my complaint?”, “short_answer”: “It may not be dismissed if the context of your complaint makes it clear what you are disputing.”, “detailed_answer”: “The HOA tried to dismiss the case because the homeowner cited the Planned Community statute instead of the Condominium statute. The judge denied this because the checkboxes and narrative provided sufficient notice of the claim.”, “alj_quote”: “While it may be true Petitioner hand wrote A.R.S. §33-1805… the context surrounding Petitioner’s hand written statute provides adequate notice.”, “legal_basis”: “Due Process / Notice”, “topic_tags”: [ “procedure”, “complaint forms”, “legal error” ] }, { “question”: “What is the standard of proof I need to meet to win against my HOA?”, “short_answer”: “You must prove your case by a “preponderance of the evidence.””, “detailed_answer”: “The homeowner bears the burden of proof. This standard means showing that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not.”, “alj_quote”: “In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 and the Association’s governing documents.”, “legal_basis”: “A.A.C. R2-19-119”, “topic_tags”: [ “burden of proof”, “legal standard”, “evidence” ] }, { “question”: “Will the HOA be fined a civil penalty if I prove they violated the law?”, “short_answer”: “Not automatically. The ALJ decides if a penalty is appropriate based on the facts.”, “detailed_answer”: “Even though the HOA was found to have violated record laws and insurance requirements, the judge decided not to assess a civil penalty in this specific instance.”, “alj_quote”: “Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.”, “legal_basis”: “Judicial Discretion”, “topic_tags”: [ “penalties”, “fines”, “enforcement” ] } ] }






Blog Post – 24F-H008-REL


{ “case”: { “docket_no”: “24F-H008-REL”, “case_title”: “Keith W. Cunningham v The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”, “decision_date”: “2024-01-11”, “alj_name”: “Tammy L. Eigenheer”, “tribunal”: “OAH”, “agency”: “ADRE” }, “questions”: [ { “question”: “How many days does my HOA have to provide records after I request them?”, “short_answer”: “The HOA has 10 business days to fulfill a request for examination of records.”, “detailed_answer”: “According to Arizona law cited in the decision, an association must make financial and other records reasonably available for examination within ten business days of a member’s request.”, “alj_quote”: “The association shall have ten business days to fulfill a request for examination.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)”, “topic_tags”: [ “records request”, “deadlines”, “A.R.S. § 33-1258” ] }, { “question”: “Can my HOA claim they don’t have to provide specific contracts if they are not uploaded to the web portal?”, “short_answer”: “No. If the records exist and aren’t privileged, the HOA must make them available for examination, regardless of whether they are on a portal.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this case, the HOA failed to provide signed vendor contracts that existed, claiming they provided what was on the portal. The ALJ found that failing to provide these specific requested documents constituted a violation.”, “alj_quote”: “Respondent did not assert or establish that any of the requested documents were subject to any of the exceptions provided for in statute. Accordingly, Petitioner was entitled to examine those documents.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258”, “topic_tags”: [ “records request”, “contracts”, “online portal” ] }, { “question”: “If my CC&Rs require specific insurance liability limits, does an umbrella policy count towards meeting them?”, “short_answer”: “Not necessarily. The ALJ ruled that a base policy lower than the CC&R requirement was non-compliant, even with a large umbrella policy.”, “detailed_answer”: “The CC&Rs required $3,000,000 per occurrence. The HOA had $1,000,000 coverage plus a $50,000,000 umbrella. The ALJ ruled the general liability insurance was not in compliance because the specific base limit was not met.”, “alj_quote”: “While Respondent had an umbrella policy in addition to the general liability insurance, Respondent’s general liability insurance was not in compliance with the applicable CC&Rs.”, “legal_basis”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “topic_tags”: [ “insurance”, “compliance”, “CC&Rs” ] }, { “question”: “Must the HOA insure the building for its full replacement cost?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, if the CC&Rs state the insurance must equal 100% of the current replacement cost.”, “detailed_answer”: “The HOA obtained an appraisal showing a replacement cost of $73 million but maintained coverage of only $59 million. The ALJ found this violated the CC&Rs requirement for 100% replacement cost coverage.”, “alj_quote”: “Accordingly, Respondent’s property insurance was not in compliance with the applicable CC&Rs at the time the petition was filed.”, “legal_basis”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “topic_tags”: [ “insurance”, “property value”, “CC&Rs” ] }, { “question”: “Will I get my filing fee back if I win the hearing?”, “short_answer”: “The ALJ has the authority to order the HOA to reimburse the filing fee if the petition is granted.”, “detailed_answer”: “After granting the petition and finding the HOA in violation, the judge specifically ordered the respondent to pay back the petitioner’s filing fee.”, “alj_quote”: “IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner his $1,000.00 filing fee.”, “legal_basis”: “Order”, “topic_tags”: [ “remedies”, “filing fees”, “costs” ] }, { “question”: “What happens if I accidentally cite the wrong statute number in my complaint?”, “short_answer”: “It may not be dismissed if the context of your complaint makes it clear what you are disputing.”, “detailed_answer”: “The HOA tried to dismiss the case because the homeowner cited the Planned Community statute instead of the Condominium statute. The judge denied this because the checkboxes and narrative provided sufficient notice of the claim.”, “alj_quote”: “While it may be true Petitioner hand wrote A.R.S. §33-1805… the context surrounding Petitioner’s hand written statute provides adequate notice.”, “legal_basis”: “Due Process / Notice”, “topic_tags”: [ “procedure”, “complaint forms”, “legal error” ] }, { “question”: “What is the standard of proof I need to meet to win against my HOA?”, “short_answer”: “You must prove your case by a “preponderance of the evidence.””, “detailed_answer”: “The homeowner bears the burden of proof. This standard means showing that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not.”, “alj_quote”: “In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 and the Association’s governing documents.”, “legal_basis”: “A.A.C. R2-19-119”, “topic_tags”: [ “burden of proof”, “legal standard”, “evidence” ] }, { “question”: “Will the HOA be fined a civil penalty if I prove they violated the law?”, “short_answer”: “Not automatically. The ALJ decides if a penalty is appropriate based on the facts.”, “detailed_answer”: “Even though the HOA was found to have violated record laws and insurance requirements, the judge decided not to assess a civil penalty in this specific instance.”, “alj_quote”: “Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.”, “legal_basis”: “Judicial Discretion”, “topic_tags”: [ “penalties”, “fines”, “enforcement” ] } ] }


Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Keith W. Cunningham (petitioner)

Respondent Side

  • Allison Preston (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen LLP
    Represented The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC
  • Kyle von Johnson (HOA attorney)
    Represented The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC
  • Mark Teman (board member)
    Association President, witness
  • Allison Renow (property manager)
    First Service Residential
    General Manager (GM) on site
  • Frank Durso (regional manager)
    First Service Residential
  • Jamie George (VP of Insurance)
    First Service Financial
    Assists with association insurance policies
  • Holly McNelte (management staff)
    First Service Residential
    FSR team member who managed documents/files

Neutral Parties

  • Jonathan Henley (insurance broker)
    Gallagher
  • Brian Del Vecchio (ALJ)
    OAH
    Administrative Law Judge who conducted the hearing (12/8/23)
  • Tammy L. Eigenheer (ALJ)
    OAH
    Administrative Law Judge who wrote the decision
  • Susan Nicolson (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate

Other Participants

  • AHansen (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • vnunez (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • djones (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • labril (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • mneat (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • akowaleski (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • gosborn (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient

Virginia Guest v Bella Tierra Community Association

Case Summary

Case ID 24F-H007-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2023-11-08
Administrative Law Judge Brian Del Vecchio
Outcome partial
Filing Fees Refunded $1,500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Virginia Guest Counsel
Respondent Bella Tierra Community Association Counsel Nicholas C. S. Nogami, Esq.

Alleged Violations

CC&Rs § 5.1, ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1803

Outcome Summary

The petition was granted in part and denied in part. Petitioner won the claim regarding the unauthorized certified letter charges, resulting in removal of the charges and a $500.00 fee refund. Petitioner lost the claims regarding the animal restriction (chickens are banned fowl) and the failure to engage in mediation (ADR provision 9.15 was inapplicable).

Why this result: Petitioner failed to prove violations of CC&Rs § 9.1.1 and CC&Rs § 9.15. Chickens are banned as birds/fowl under CC&Rs § 3.3, and the mediation clause only applies to disputes involving Declarant Parties, not general homeowner disputes.

Key Issues & Findings

Wrongfully charging costs of certified letters/appeal response as a balance forward

Petitioner alleged Respondent wrongfully forwarded the cost of sending certified letters (categorized as a 'balance forward') onto her account without authority in the CC&Rs, violating rules for imposing fines.

Orders: Respondent ordered to pay Petitioner $500.00 of her filing fee and remove the balance forward associated with certified letter costs from her assessment.

Filing fee: $1,500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • CC&Rs § 5.1
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1803

Analytics Highlights

Topics: animal restriction, HOA enforcement, certified mail fee, dispute resolution, fines
Additional Citations:

  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199 et seq.
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1803
  • CC&Rs § 9.1.1
  • CC&Rs § 3.3
  • CC&Rs § 9.15
  • CC&Rs § 5.1

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

24F-H007-REL Decision – 1095892.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T18:01:15 (55.6 KB)

24F-H007-REL Decision – 1111192.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T18:01:18 (104.5 KB)

Questions

Question

Can my HOA ban chickens even if I consider them household pets?

Short Answer

Yes. If the CC&Rs explicitly ban 'fowl' or 'poultry,' your subjective belief that they are pets does not override the objective ban.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ determined that even if a homeowner views chickens as pets akin to parakeets, if the CC&Rs explicitly ban 'fowl' or 'poultry,' that ban is enforceable. The specific classification of the animal in the documents overrides the owner's usage of the animal as a pet.

Alj Quote

Petitioner subjectively believes her chickens are pets and therefore qualify for the pet exception of the animal policy; however the CC&Rs plain language objectively bans not only birds but fowl. Chickens are both birds and fowl therefore, homeowners may not have live chickens on their property.

Legal Basis

CC&Rs § 3.3

Topic Tags

  • animals
  • chickens
  • CC&Rs interpretation
  • violations

Question

Can my HOA charge me for the cost of sending certified letters regarding a violation?

Short Answer

Not unless the CC&Rs explicitly authorize passing those specific administrative costs to the homeowner.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ ruled that an HOA cannot arbitrarily pass on administrative costs, such as certified mail fees for violation notices, unless the governing documents specifically empower them to do so. In this case, the HOA was ordered to remove the charge.

Alj Quote

Respondent failed to establish their CC&Rs empower them to forward the cost of litigation onto Petitioner prior to the completion of hearing. Therefore, Petitioner established Respondent violated CC&Rs § 5.1 and ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1803

Legal Basis

CC&Rs § 5.1; A.R.S. § 33-1803

Topic Tags

  • fines
  • fees
  • administrative costs
  • certified mail

Question

Is my HOA required to go to mediation before enforcing a rule violation?

Short Answer

It depends on the specific language of the dispute resolution clause. Some clauses only apply to disputes with the developer (Declarant), not general homeowner enforcement.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner argued that a 'Dispute Notification and Resolution Procedure' required mediation. However, the ALJ found that the specific section cited applied only to 'Declarant Parties' (the developer/builders) regarding construction or design defects, not to standard enforcement actions between the HOA and a homeowner.

Alj Quote

The CC&Rs § 9.15 restricts its application to disputes involving the Declarant Parties, particularly those arising from or related to construction defects or conditions of the Project and not homeowner disputes. Because Petitioner is not a Declarant Party CC&Rs § 9.15 does not apply.

Legal Basis

CC&Rs § 9.15

Topic Tags

  • mediation
  • dispute resolution
  • procedure
  • declarant

Question

Who has the burden of proof when a homeowner challenges an HOA violation?

Short Answer

The homeowner (Petitioner) bears the burden of proving the HOA violated the governing documents or statutes.

Detailed Answer

In an administrative hearing where the homeowner files the petition, the homeowner must prove their case by a 'preponderance of the evidence,' meaning their evidence must be more convincing than the HOA's.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated CC&Rs § 3.3, CC&Rs § 9.15, CC&Rs § 5.1 and ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1803.

Legal Basis

Standard of Proof

Topic Tags

  • legal standards
  • burden of proof
  • hearings

Question

If I win part of my case against the HOA, can I get my filing fees reimbursed?

Short Answer

The ALJ may order partial reimbursement of filing fees if the petition is granted in part.

Detailed Answer

In this case, the homeowner lost the argument regarding chickens but won the argument regarding improper fees for certified letters. Consequently, the ALJ ordered the HOA to reimburse $500 of the $1500 filing fee.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED Respondent is ordered to pay Petitioner $500.00 of her $1500.00 filing fee within 30 days of the mailing date of the Administrative Law Judge Decision entered in this matter.

Legal Basis

ALJ Order

Topic Tags

  • remedies
  • filing fees
  • penalties

Question

Does an exception for 'household birds' in the CC&Rs allow me to keep chickens?

Short Answer

Likely not, if chickens are also defined as 'fowl' which are otherwise banned.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ rejected the argument that chickens fell under the exception for 'parakeets or similar household birds,' finding instead that they fell under the explicit ban on 'fowl.'

Alj Quote

Notwithstanding Petitioner’s argument that her chickens are akin to parakeets, an exception to the no animal rule in the CC&Rs, birds and fowl are explicitly banned.

Legal Basis

CC&Rs § 3.3

Topic Tags

  • animals
  • CC&Rs interpretation
  • exceptions

Case

Docket No
24F-H007-REL
Case Title
Virginia Guest v Bella Tierra Community Association
Decision Date
2023-11-08
Alj Name
Brian Del Vecchio
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Questions

Question

Can my HOA ban chickens even if I consider them household pets?

Short Answer

Yes. If the CC&Rs explicitly ban 'fowl' or 'poultry,' your subjective belief that they are pets does not override the objective ban.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ determined that even if a homeowner views chickens as pets akin to parakeets, if the CC&Rs explicitly ban 'fowl' or 'poultry,' that ban is enforceable. The specific classification of the animal in the documents overrides the owner's usage of the animal as a pet.

Alj Quote

Petitioner subjectively believes her chickens are pets and therefore qualify for the pet exception of the animal policy; however the CC&Rs plain language objectively bans not only birds but fowl. Chickens are both birds and fowl therefore, homeowners may not have live chickens on their property.

Legal Basis

CC&Rs § 3.3

Topic Tags

  • animals
  • chickens
  • CC&Rs interpretation
  • violations

Question

Can my HOA charge me for the cost of sending certified letters regarding a violation?

Short Answer

Not unless the CC&Rs explicitly authorize passing those specific administrative costs to the homeowner.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ ruled that an HOA cannot arbitrarily pass on administrative costs, such as certified mail fees for violation notices, unless the governing documents specifically empower them to do so. In this case, the HOA was ordered to remove the charge.

Alj Quote

Respondent failed to establish their CC&Rs empower them to forward the cost of litigation onto Petitioner prior to the completion of hearing. Therefore, Petitioner established Respondent violated CC&Rs § 5.1 and ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1803

Legal Basis

CC&Rs § 5.1; A.R.S. § 33-1803

Topic Tags

  • fines
  • fees
  • administrative costs
  • certified mail

Question

Is my HOA required to go to mediation before enforcing a rule violation?

Short Answer

It depends on the specific language of the dispute resolution clause. Some clauses only apply to disputes with the developer (Declarant), not general homeowner enforcement.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner argued that a 'Dispute Notification and Resolution Procedure' required mediation. However, the ALJ found that the specific section cited applied only to 'Declarant Parties' (the developer/builders) regarding construction or design defects, not to standard enforcement actions between the HOA and a homeowner.

Alj Quote

The CC&Rs § 9.15 restricts its application to disputes involving the Declarant Parties, particularly those arising from or related to construction defects or conditions of the Project and not homeowner disputes. Because Petitioner is not a Declarant Party CC&Rs § 9.15 does not apply.

Legal Basis

CC&Rs § 9.15

Topic Tags

  • mediation
  • dispute resolution
  • procedure
  • declarant

Question

Who has the burden of proof when a homeowner challenges an HOA violation?

Short Answer

The homeowner (Petitioner) bears the burden of proving the HOA violated the governing documents or statutes.

Detailed Answer

In an administrative hearing where the homeowner files the petition, the homeowner must prove their case by a 'preponderance of the evidence,' meaning their evidence must be more convincing than the HOA's.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated CC&Rs § 3.3, CC&Rs § 9.15, CC&Rs § 5.1 and ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1803.

Legal Basis

Standard of Proof

Topic Tags

  • legal standards
  • burden of proof
  • hearings

Question

If I win part of my case against the HOA, can I get my filing fees reimbursed?

Short Answer

The ALJ may order partial reimbursement of filing fees if the petition is granted in part.

Detailed Answer

In this case, the homeowner lost the argument regarding chickens but won the argument regarding improper fees for certified letters. Consequently, the ALJ ordered the HOA to reimburse $500 of the $1500 filing fee.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED Respondent is ordered to pay Petitioner $500.00 of her $1500.00 filing fee within 30 days of the mailing date of the Administrative Law Judge Decision entered in this matter.

Legal Basis

ALJ Order

Topic Tags

  • remedies
  • filing fees
  • penalties

Question

Does an exception for 'household birds' in the CC&Rs allow me to keep chickens?

Short Answer

Likely not, if chickens are also defined as 'fowl' which are otherwise banned.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ rejected the argument that chickens fell under the exception for 'parakeets or similar household birds,' finding instead that they fell under the explicit ban on 'fowl.'

Alj Quote

Notwithstanding Petitioner’s argument that her chickens are akin to parakeets, an exception to the no animal rule in the CC&Rs, birds and fowl are explicitly banned.

Legal Basis

CC&Rs § 3.3

Topic Tags

  • animals
  • CC&Rs interpretation
  • exceptions

Case

Docket No
24F-H007-REL
Case Title
Virginia Guest v Bella Tierra Community Association
Decision Date
2023-11-08
Alj Name
Brian Del Vecchio
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Virginia Guest (petitioner)
    Appeared on her own behalf

Respondent Side

  • Nicholas C. S. Nogami (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen, LLP
  • Marcus R. Martinez (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen, LLP
  • Jamie Petty (association manager / witness)
    Platinum Management
    Association manager for Bella Tierra Community Association; also referenced as Jamie Teddy/Miss Teddy
  • Sean Moynihan (HOA attorney)
    Senology
    General counsel for Respondent; referenced in Petitioner's claims; also referred to as John Moahan

Neutral Parties

  • Brian Del Vecchio (ALJ)
    OAH
    Administrative Law Judge for the hearing and decision
  • Jenna Clark (ALJ)
    OAH
    Administrative Law Judge who issued the September 22, 2023 Order
  • Susan Nicolson (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • AHansen (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient of decisions/orders
  • vnunez (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient of decisions/orders
  • djones (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient of decisions/orders
  • labril (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient of decisions/orders

Kathy J Green v. Cross Creek Ranch Community Association

Case Summary

Case ID 22F-H2222064-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-09-29
Administrative Law Judge Sondra J. Vanella
Outcome total
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Kathy J. Green, MD Counsel
Respondent Cross Creek Ranch Community Association Counsel Nick Eicher, Esq.

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1804

Outcome Summary

The Administrative Law Judge affirmed the petition, finding that the HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1804 by improperly holding a closed executive session primarily focused on reviewing homeowner comments on design guidelines that did not meet the statutory exceptions for closure. The ALJ ordered the HOA to reimburse the petitioner's filing fee and comply with the statute in the future.

Key Issues & Findings

Alleged violation of open meetings requirements regarding closed executive session.

The Respondent HOA held a closed executive session on June 9, 2022, noticed under A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)(1) (legal advice), to discuss approximately 72 homeowner comments on proposed design guideline revisions. The ALJ found that the meeting did not qualify under exceptions (A)(1) or (A)(2) as no legal advice was given and the discussion of most comments did not constitute pending or contemplated litigation.

Orders: Petitioner's petition is affirmed. Respondent must reimburse the Petitioner the $500.00 filing fee and is directed to comply with the requirements of A.R.S. § 33-1804 going forward.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • 33-1804(A)(1)
  • 33-1804(A)(2)
  • 33-1804(B)
  • 33-1804(F)

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA, Open Meetings, Executive Session, Legal Advice, Contemplated Litigation, Design Guidelines
Additional Citations:

  • 33-1804
  • 33-1804(A)
  • 33-1804(A)(1)
  • 33-1804(A)(2)
  • 33-1804(F)

Video Overview

Audio Overview

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3XtSYMRtgvLrHJNNS3sJMi

Decision Documents

22F-H2222064-REL Decision – 1003060.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:49:38 (149.0 KB)

22F-H2222064-REL Decision – 989940.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:49:41 (49.8 KB)

Questions

Question

Can my HOA board hold a closed meeting to discuss homeowner feedback on design guidelines?

Short Answer

No, discussing general homeowner feedback does not qualify for a closed executive session unless it meets specific statutory exceptions like pending litigation.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ ruled that reviewing general comments from homeowners regarding proposed changes to design guidelines is not a valid reason to close a meeting. Even if some comments are critical, the board must discuss them in an open meeting unless they specifically relate to pending or contemplated litigation or legal advice.

Alj Quote

The Administrative Law Judge concludes… that the issue discussed at the June 9, 2022 executive session does not fall under the exceptions listed in A.R.S. §§ 33-1804(A)(1) or (A)(2), and Respondent did not properly consider the issue in an executive session closed to its members.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804

Topic Tags

  • open meetings
  • design guidelines
  • executive session

Question

Does a homeowner saying they 'can and will challenge' a rule in court count as pending litigation?

Short Answer

No, vague statements about potential legal challenges do not necessarily constitute 'contemplated litigation' sufficient to close a meeting.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ found that comments stating changes 'can and will be challenged in court' did not put the Board on notice of imminent lawsuits. Therefore, such comments did not justify closing the meeting under the 'pending or contemplated litigation' exception.

Alj Quote

Further, the Administrative Law Judge concludes that none of the comments can be reasonably construed as contemplating litigation.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)(2)

Topic Tags

  • litigation
  • definitions
  • executive session

Question

Can the board close an entire meeting if they receive just one threat of litigation?

Short Answer

No, the board should only close the portion of the meeting dealing with the specific threat.

Detailed Answer

If an HOA receives many comments and only one contains a potential legal threat (e.g., copying an attorney), the board should hold an executive session for that specific item and discuss the remaining general business in an open meeting.

Alj Quote

As acknowledged by Mr. Chambers, the Board could have held an executive session to discuss only that one comment/letter in which an attorney was copied, and held an open meeting to discuss the other solicited comments.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)(2)

Topic Tags

  • procedure
  • litigation
  • open meetings

Question

Can the HOA claim 'legal advice' as a reason to close a meeting if no attorney is present?

Short Answer

No, the 'legal advice' exception generally requires actual advice being given or discussed from an attorney.

Detailed Answer

The board cannot use the 'legal advice' exception to close a meeting if they are simply preparing questions for an attorney or reviewing documents before sending them to counsel. In this case, the attorney had not yet reviewed the documents, so no legal advice could be discussed.

Alj Quote

Prior to the June 9, 2022 executive session, an attorney had not yet reviewed the proposed revisions to the Guidelines and therefore, did not provide feedback for discussion at that meeting.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)(1)

Topic Tags

  • legal advice
  • attorney
  • executive session

Question

How should HOA board members and managers interpret open meeting laws?

Short Answer

They must interpret the laws in favor of open meetings.

Detailed Answer

Arizona statute explicitly states that the policy of the state is to conduct meetings openly. Any ambiguity in the law should be construed by board members and managers to support openness rather than secrecy.

Alj Quote

Toward this end, any person or entity that is charged with the interpretation of these provisions, including members of the board of directors and any community manager, shall take into account this declaration of policy and shall construe any provision of this section in favor of open meetings.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804(F)

Topic Tags

  • statutory interpretation
  • policy
  • open meetings

Question

Who has the burden of proof in an administrative hearing against an HOA?

Short Answer

The petitioner (the homeowner filing the complaint) has the burden of proof.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner must prove by a 'preponderance of the evidence' that the HOA violated the statute. This means they must show it is more probable than not that the violation occurred.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1804.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • burden of proof
  • hearing procedure
  • evidence

Question

Can I get my filing fee back if I win my case against the HOA?

Short Answer

Yes, the ALJ has the authority to order the HOA to reimburse the filing fee.

Detailed Answer

If the homeowner prevails in showing a violation occurred, the judge may order the association to pay back the cost of filing the petition.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner the $500.00 filing fee.

Legal Basis

Order

Topic Tags

  • remedies
  • fees
  • penalties

Question

Will the HOA always be fined if they violate open meeting laws?

Short Answer

Not necessarily; the judge has discretion on whether to impose a civil penalty.

Detailed Answer

Even if a violation is found, the judge may decide not to issue a civil penalty based on the specific facts of the case.

Alj Quote

Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.

Legal Basis

Findings of Fact

Topic Tags

  • penalties
  • enforcement
  • fines

Case

Docket No
22F-H2222064-REL
Case Title
Kathy J. Green v. Cross Creek Ranch Community Association
Decision Date
2022-09-29
Alj Name
Sondra J. Vanella
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Questions

Question

Can my HOA board hold a closed meeting to discuss homeowner feedback on design guidelines?

Short Answer

No, discussing general homeowner feedback does not qualify for a closed executive session unless it meets specific statutory exceptions like pending litigation.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ ruled that reviewing general comments from homeowners regarding proposed changes to design guidelines is not a valid reason to close a meeting. Even if some comments are critical, the board must discuss them in an open meeting unless they specifically relate to pending or contemplated litigation or legal advice.

Alj Quote

The Administrative Law Judge concludes… that the issue discussed at the June 9, 2022 executive session does not fall under the exceptions listed in A.R.S. §§ 33-1804(A)(1) or (A)(2), and Respondent did not properly consider the issue in an executive session closed to its members.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804

Topic Tags

  • open meetings
  • design guidelines
  • executive session

Question

Does a homeowner saying they 'can and will challenge' a rule in court count as pending litigation?

Short Answer

No, vague statements about potential legal challenges do not necessarily constitute 'contemplated litigation' sufficient to close a meeting.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ found that comments stating changes 'can and will be challenged in court' did not put the Board on notice of imminent lawsuits. Therefore, such comments did not justify closing the meeting under the 'pending or contemplated litigation' exception.

Alj Quote

Further, the Administrative Law Judge concludes that none of the comments can be reasonably construed as contemplating litigation.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)(2)

Topic Tags

  • litigation
  • definitions
  • executive session

Question

Can the board close an entire meeting if they receive just one threat of litigation?

Short Answer

No, the board should only close the portion of the meeting dealing with the specific threat.

Detailed Answer

If an HOA receives many comments and only one contains a potential legal threat (e.g., copying an attorney), the board should hold an executive session for that specific item and discuss the remaining general business in an open meeting.

Alj Quote

As acknowledged by Mr. Chambers, the Board could have held an executive session to discuss only that one comment/letter in which an attorney was copied, and held an open meeting to discuss the other solicited comments.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)(2)

Topic Tags

  • procedure
  • litigation
  • open meetings

Question

Can the HOA claim 'legal advice' as a reason to close a meeting if no attorney is present?

Short Answer

No, the 'legal advice' exception generally requires actual advice being given or discussed from an attorney.

Detailed Answer

The board cannot use the 'legal advice' exception to close a meeting if they are simply preparing questions for an attorney or reviewing documents before sending them to counsel. In this case, the attorney had not yet reviewed the documents, so no legal advice could be discussed.

Alj Quote

Prior to the June 9, 2022 executive session, an attorney had not yet reviewed the proposed revisions to the Guidelines and therefore, did not provide feedback for discussion at that meeting.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)(1)

Topic Tags

  • legal advice
  • attorney
  • executive session

Question

How should HOA board members and managers interpret open meeting laws?

Short Answer

They must interpret the laws in favor of open meetings.

Detailed Answer

Arizona statute explicitly states that the policy of the state is to conduct meetings openly. Any ambiguity in the law should be construed by board members and managers to support openness rather than secrecy.

Alj Quote

Toward this end, any person or entity that is charged with the interpretation of these provisions, including members of the board of directors and any community manager, shall take into account this declaration of policy and shall construe any provision of this section in favor of open meetings.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1804(F)

Topic Tags

  • statutory interpretation
  • policy
  • open meetings

Question

Who has the burden of proof in an administrative hearing against an HOA?

Short Answer

The petitioner (the homeowner filing the complaint) has the burden of proof.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner must prove by a 'preponderance of the evidence' that the HOA violated the statute. This means they must show it is more probable than not that the violation occurred.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1804.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • burden of proof
  • hearing procedure
  • evidence

Question

Can I get my filing fee back if I win my case against the HOA?

Short Answer

Yes, the ALJ has the authority to order the HOA to reimburse the filing fee.

Detailed Answer

If the homeowner prevails in showing a violation occurred, the judge may order the association to pay back the cost of filing the petition.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner the $500.00 filing fee.

Legal Basis

Order

Topic Tags

  • remedies
  • fees
  • penalties

Question

Will the HOA always be fined if they violate open meeting laws?

Short Answer

Not necessarily; the judge has discretion on whether to impose a civil penalty.

Detailed Answer

Even if a violation is found, the judge may decide not to issue a civil penalty based on the specific facts of the case.

Alj Quote

Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.

Legal Basis

Findings of Fact

Topic Tags

  • penalties
  • enforcement
  • fines

Case

Docket No
22F-H2222064-REL
Case Title
Kathy J. Green v. Cross Creek Ranch Community Association
Decision Date
2022-09-29
Alj Name
Sondra J. Vanella
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Kathy J. Green (petitioner)
    Cross Creek Ranch Owner
    Also referred to as Dr. Green, Colonel (retired),
  • Peter Calogero (witness)
    Spouse of Petitioner,

Respondent Side

  • Cross Creek Ranch Community Association (respondent)
  • Nick Eicher (HOA attorney)
    Cross Creek Ranch Community Association,
    Also referred to as Nick Iker
  • Greg Chambers (board president)
    Cross Creek Ranch Board
    Also appeared as a witness,
  • Charles Olden (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter Hazelwood
  • Steve Germaine (board member/ARC chair)
    Cross Creek Ranch Board/ARC,
    Subpoenaed individual,,
  • John Kinich (board member)
    Cross Creek Ranch Board
    Also referred to as John Halenich
  • Lynn Grigg (ARC member)
    Cross Creek Ranch ARC,
  • Dan Donahghue (board member)
    Cross Creek Ranch Board,
  • Lisa Henson (board member)
    Cross Creek Ranch Board
  • Laura Malone (property manager)
    Community association manager,,
  • Edith I. Rudder (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen LLP,
    Recipient of final order
  • Edward D. O'Brien (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen LLP,
    Recipient of final order

Neutral Parties

  • Sondra J. Vanella (ALJ)
    OAH
    Presided over the matter,
  • Louis Dettorre (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE),

Other Participants

  • Brian (regional manager)
    Homeco/Property Management
    Provided guidance to Laura Malone
  • Miranda Alvarez (legal secretary)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen LLP

Evin Abromowitz v. The Meadows Homeowners Association

Case Summary

Case ID 22F-H2222038-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-08-22
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome none
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Evin Abromowitz Counsel
Respondent The Meadows Homeowners Association Counsel Nicholas Nogami, Esq.

Alleged Violations

CC&Rs, Section 3.5 and 3.6

Outcome Summary

The Administrative Law Judge denied the homeowner's petition, finding that the homeowner failed to prove the HOA violated CC&Rs Sections 3.5 or 3.6 regarding its authority to enact or enforce the rules and regulations that were at issue.

Why this result: Petitioner failed to sustain her burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that the Respondent violated CC&Rs Section 3.5 or 3.6. The ALJ concluded that the HOA was authorized to enact rules relating to the operation of the association and to enforce them.

Key Issues & Findings

Petitioner claimed Respondent violated CC&Rs 3.5 and 3.6 regarding its power to adopt and enforce rules by applying rules allegedly unrelated to the operation of the association and/or failing to follow protocol.

Petitioner challenged the HOA's authority to enact (3.5) and enforce (3.6) specific rules, arguing they were not related to association operation (e.g., controlling off-site email communication or fining for vendor interaction) and that enforcement protocols were violated. The ALJ denied the petition, finding the HOA was authorized to enact and enforce rules related to the operation of the association, and Petitioner failed to meet her burden of proof.

Orders: Petitioner's petition is denied.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2102
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199 et seq.
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.05
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199(2)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199.01(A)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199.01(D)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199.02
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 41-1092 et seq.
  • ARIZ. ADMIN. CODE R2-19-119
  • Tierra Ranchos Homeowners Ass'n v. Kitchukov, 216 Ariz. 195, 165 P.3d 173 (App. 2007)

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA rules and regulations, CC&Rs, Enforcement authority, Burden of Proof, Planned community association dispute
Additional Citations:

  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2102
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199 et seq.
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.05
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199(2)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199.01(A)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199.01(D)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 32-2199.02
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 41-1092 et seq.
  • ARIZ. ADMIN. CODE R2-19-119
  • Tierra Ranchos Homeowners Ass'n v. Kitchukov, 216 Ariz. 195, 165 P.3d 173 (App. 2007)

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

22F-H2222038-REL Decision – 966844.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:45:56 (48.2 KB)

22F-H2222038-REL Decision – 969590.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:46:01 (44.1 KB)

22F-H2222038-REL Decision – 994145.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:46:05 (145.3 KB)

Questions

Question

Are the CC&Rs considered a legally binding contract?

Short Answer

Yes, CC&Rs are an enforceable contract between the HOA and the homeowner.

Detailed Answer

When a person purchases a property within an HOA, they agree to be bound by the terms of the CC&Rs. The decision explicitly states that this document constitutes a contract.

Alj Quote

Thus, the CC&Rs form an enforceable contract between Respondent and each property owner.

Legal Basis

Contract Law Principles / CC&Rs

Topic Tags

  • CC&Rs
  • Legal Status
  • Contract

Question

Can an HOA create rules regarding behavior toward staff and board members?

Short Answer

Yes, rules prohibiting harassment or abuse of staff and board members are valid.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ determined that rules governing conduct towards the board and management relate to the operation of the association and are therefore within the HOA's authority to enact.

Alj Quote

Respondent was authorized to enact rules and regulations relating to the operation of the association. The rules at issue in this matter relate to the operation of the association.

Legal Basis

Authority to Adopt Rules

Topic Tags

  • Rules and Regulations
  • Harassment
  • Board Authority

Question

Must the HOA provide a hearing before assessing a fine?

Short Answer

Yes, due written notice and an opportunity for a hearing are generally required.

Detailed Answer

The decision cites the HOA's specific fine guidelines which mandate that a member must be given notice and a chance to be heard before a fine is assessed.

Alj Quote

No fine shall be assessed until the Member who has committed a violation has been given due written notice and an opportunity for a hearing.

Legal Basis

Due Process / Fine Guidelines

Topic Tags

  • Fines
  • Due Process
  • Hearings

Question

What is the burden of proof for a homeowner suing their HOA?

Short Answer

Preponderance of the evidence.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner must prove that their contention is more likely true than not. The burden is on the petitioner to prove the HOA violated its documents.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated a community document.

Legal Basis

Standard of Proof

Topic Tags

  • Legal Standards
  • Burden of Proof
  • Evidence

Question

Can the HOA fine me for interrupting or hindering vendors?

Short Answer

Yes, rules prohibiting the hindering of vendors are enforceable.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ upheld the HOA's authority to enforce rules that include fines for hindering hired vendors, as these rules relate to the association's operations.

Alj Quote

Hindering a hired vendor from their work at another property in The Meadows. This violation carries a $100.00 fine.

Legal Basis

Enforcement of Rules

Topic Tags

  • Vendors
  • Interference
  • Fines

Question

If I challenge the validity of a rule, will the judge also decide if I am guilty of the specific violation?

Short Answer

Not necessarily; the judge only decides the issues raised in the petition.

Detailed Answer

If a homeowner's petition only challenges the HOA's authority to make a rule, the ALJ will not rule on the facts of the specific violation (e.g., whether the conduct actually happened) if that issue was not explicitly raised.

Alj Quote

While Petitioner may have wanted to argue that the alleged violations brought against her were not proper, she did not raise that issue in her Petition.

Legal Basis

Scope of Hearing

Topic Tags

  • Petition Scope
  • Legal Procedure
  • Defense

Question

Does the HOA have the power to enforce rules that are not explicitly detailed in the original CC&Rs?

Short Answer

Yes, if the CC&Rs grant the power to adopt and enforce new rules.

Detailed Answer

The CC&Rs in this case allowed the Association to adopt new rules deemed necessary for the operation of the association, and gave them the same force as the Declaration.

Alj Quote

The Association shall have the power to enforce the provisions of this Declaration and of Rules & Regulations by any lawful remedy or means…

Legal Basis

CC&R Section 3.6

Topic Tags

  • Rulemaking
  • Enforcement
  • Governing Documents

Case

Docket No
22F-H2222038-REL
Case Title
Evin Abromowitz vs The Meadows Homeowners Association
Decision Date
2022-08-22
Alj Name
Tammy L. Eigenheer
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Questions

Question

Are the CC&Rs considered a legally binding contract?

Short Answer

Yes, CC&Rs are an enforceable contract between the HOA and the homeowner.

Detailed Answer

When a person purchases a property within an HOA, they agree to be bound by the terms of the CC&Rs. The decision explicitly states that this document constitutes a contract.

Alj Quote

Thus, the CC&Rs form an enforceable contract between Respondent and each property owner.

Legal Basis

Contract Law Principles / CC&Rs

Topic Tags

  • CC&Rs
  • Legal Status
  • Contract

Question

Can an HOA create rules regarding behavior toward staff and board members?

Short Answer

Yes, rules prohibiting harassment or abuse of staff and board members are valid.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ determined that rules governing conduct towards the board and management relate to the operation of the association and are therefore within the HOA's authority to enact.

Alj Quote

Respondent was authorized to enact rules and regulations relating to the operation of the association. The rules at issue in this matter relate to the operation of the association.

Legal Basis

Authority to Adopt Rules

Topic Tags

  • Rules and Regulations
  • Harassment
  • Board Authority

Question

Must the HOA provide a hearing before assessing a fine?

Short Answer

Yes, due written notice and an opportunity for a hearing are generally required.

Detailed Answer

The decision cites the HOA's specific fine guidelines which mandate that a member must be given notice and a chance to be heard before a fine is assessed.

Alj Quote

No fine shall be assessed until the Member who has committed a violation has been given due written notice and an opportunity for a hearing.

Legal Basis

Due Process / Fine Guidelines

Topic Tags

  • Fines
  • Due Process
  • Hearings

Question

What is the burden of proof for a homeowner suing their HOA?

Short Answer

Preponderance of the evidence.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner must prove that their contention is more likely true than not. The burden is on the petitioner to prove the HOA violated its documents.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated a community document.

Legal Basis

Standard of Proof

Topic Tags

  • Legal Standards
  • Burden of Proof
  • Evidence

Question

Can the HOA fine me for interrupting or hindering vendors?

Short Answer

Yes, rules prohibiting the hindering of vendors are enforceable.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ upheld the HOA's authority to enforce rules that include fines for hindering hired vendors, as these rules relate to the association's operations.

Alj Quote

Hindering a hired vendor from their work at another property in The Meadows. This violation carries a $100.00 fine.

Legal Basis

Enforcement of Rules

Topic Tags

  • Vendors
  • Interference
  • Fines

Question

If I challenge the validity of a rule, will the judge also decide if I am guilty of the specific violation?

Short Answer

Not necessarily; the judge only decides the issues raised in the petition.

Detailed Answer

If a homeowner's petition only challenges the HOA's authority to make a rule, the ALJ will not rule on the facts of the specific violation (e.g., whether the conduct actually happened) if that issue was not explicitly raised.

Alj Quote

While Petitioner may have wanted to argue that the alleged violations brought against her were not proper, she did not raise that issue in her Petition.

Legal Basis

Scope of Hearing

Topic Tags

  • Petition Scope
  • Legal Procedure
  • Defense

Question

Does the HOA have the power to enforce rules that are not explicitly detailed in the original CC&Rs?

Short Answer

Yes, if the CC&Rs grant the power to adopt and enforce new rules.

Detailed Answer

The CC&Rs in this case allowed the Association to adopt new rules deemed necessary for the operation of the association, and gave them the same force as the Declaration.

Alj Quote

The Association shall have the power to enforce the provisions of this Declaration and of Rules & Regulations by any lawful remedy or means…

Legal Basis

CC&R Section 3.6

Topic Tags

  • Rulemaking
  • Enforcement
  • Governing Documents

Case

Docket No
22F-H2222038-REL
Case Title
Evin Abromowitz vs The Meadows Homeowners Association
Decision Date
2022-08-22
Alj Name
Tammy L. Eigenheer
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Evin Abromowitz (petitioner)
    Property owner and member of The Meadows Homeowners Association.
  • Carolyn C. E. Davis (witness)
    Known as Carrie Davis.
  • Shannon Kelsey (witness)
    Former employee of the association.
  • Patrick Scott (witness)
    Witness for Petitioner.

Respondent Side

  • Nicholas Nogami (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen, LLP
    Represented The Meadows Homeowners Association.
  • Lynn Mater (HOA President/manager/witness)
    The Meadows Homeowners Association/ADAM LLC
    Testified for Respondent.
  • Jacqueline Conoy (assistant community manager)
    ADAM LLC/The Meadows Homeowners Association
    Recipient of emails from Petitioner.
  • Omid (board member)
    The Meadows Homeowners Association
    Mentioned in relation to drafting rules with Lynn.
  • Hiker (attorney associate)
    Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen, LLP (implied)
    Appeared on the call with Nicholas Nogami.

Neutral Parties

  • Tammy L. Eigenheer (ALJ)
    OAH
    Administrative Law Judge.
  • Louis Dettorre (ADRE Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • c. serrano (OAH administrative staff)
    OAH
    Signed transmission.
  • Miranda Alvarez (legal secretary)
    Signed transmission.

Terry Marvin & Lori J Lefferts v. The Stone Canyon Community

Case Summary

Case ID 22F-H2221018-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-08-05
Administrative Law Judge Kay A. Abramsohn
Outcome loss
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Terry Marvin & Lori J. Lefferts Counsel
Respondent The Stone Canyon Community Association, Inc. Counsel Nicholas C.S. Nogami

Alleged Violations

CC&R § 11.3; Guidelines § 1, Items 1 & 32; Guidelines § 5, Item 12

Outcome Summary

The Petition alleging that the Stone Canyon Community Association violated its Design Guidelines by granting a variance for secondary improvements within the side-yard setback to Lot 19 owners was dismissed. The ALJ found that the DRC exercised reasonable discretion in granting a deviation (variance) under Guidelines Section 5, Item 12, and the Petitioners failed to meet their burden of proof.

Why this result: The Administrative Law Judge determined that the Design Review Committee acted reasonably within its authority to grant a deviation (variance) to the Guidelines to allow the proposed secondary improvements (grading, driveway, enclosure) within the 15’ side-yard setback in extenuating circumstances, consistent with the requirements outlined in Guideline Section 5, Item 12.

Key Issues & Findings

Alleged violation by DRC when granting a variance for side-yard setback requirements for secondary improvements.

Petitioners (Lot 20 owners) alleged the DRC violated guidelines by granting a variance to Lot 19 owners for placing secondary improvements (driveway, grading, site walls, enclosure) within the 15-foot side-yard setback. Petitioners sought rescission of the variance, arguing the DRC failed to establish an unreasonable hardship or burden as required by Guideline Section 5, Item 12, thereby acting unreasonably and causing diminution in Lot 20 value.

Orders: Petitioners' Petition is dismissed. Petitioners bear their $500.00 filing fee.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • Guidelines Section 1, Item 1
  • Guidelines Section 1, Item 32
  • Guidelines Section 5, Item 12
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119
  • A.R.S. Title 33, Chapter 16

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA dispute, Design Review Committee, variance, setback, secondary improvements, reasonable discretion
Additional Citations:

  • CC&R Section 11.3
  • Guidelines Section 1, Item 1
  • Guidelines Section 1, Item 32
  • Guidelines Section 5, Item 12
  • A.R.S. Title 33, Chapter 16
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

22F-H2221018-REL Decision – 940674.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:06 (56.7 KB)

22F-H2221018-REL Decision – 953784.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:09 (64.2 KB)

22F-H2221018-REL Decision – 954492.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:13 (46.5 KB)

22F-H2221018-REL Decision – 958478.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:16 (48.5 KB)

22F-H2221018-REL Decision – 958503.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:19 (7.4 KB)

22F-H2221018-REL Decision – 990387.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:22 (167.8 KB)

Questions

Question

What is the burden of proof for a homeowner challenging an HOA's architectural decision?

Short Answer

The homeowner must prove by a 'preponderance of the evidence' that the HOA violated its governing documents.

Detailed Answer

In an administrative hearing regarding an HOA dispute, the petitioner (homeowner) bears the burden of proof. They must demonstrate that it is more probable than not that the Association or its Committee violated specific provisions of the governing documents (such as Design Guidelines).

Alj Quote

Petitioners bear the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that, as alleged, Association through actions of Committee had violated Guidelines Section 1, Items 1 and 32 requirements and Section 5, Item 12 requirements when Committee granted a variance…1

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • burden of proof
  • legal standards
  • evidence

Question

What does 'preponderance of the evidence' mean in an HOA hearing?

Short Answer

It means evidence that is more convincing than the opposing evidence, showing the fact is 'more probable than not.'

Detailed Answer

The ALJ defines this legal standard as evidence that carries greater weight than the evidence offered in opposition. It does not require absolute certainty, but rather that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not.

Alj Quote

A preponderance of the evidence is “[e]vidence which is of greater weight or more convincing than the evidence which is offered in opposition to it; that is, evidence which as a whole shows that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not.”2

Legal Basis

Black's Law Dictionary (6th ed. 1990)

Topic Tags

  • legal definitions
  • standards of evidence

Question

Can my HOA grant a neighbor a variance for construction setbacks?

Short Answer

Yes, if the governing documents grant the Design Review Committee discretion to deviate from requirements in extenuating circumstances.

Detailed Answer

If the Design Guidelines provide the Committee with discretion to deviate from requirements when following them would create an unreasonable hardship or burden, the HOA can validly grant a variance. The ALJ looks for whether the Committee exercised 'reasonable discretion' under this authority.

Alj Quote

The Administrative Law Judge concludes that the hearing record demonstrates that Committee exercised reasonable discretion under its authority to grant… a Section 5, Item 12 deviation, i.e., a variance… to allow the proposed/approved secondary improvements to be placed within the 15’ side-yard setback.3

Legal Basis

Design Guidelines Section 5, Item 12

Topic Tags

  • variances
  • setbacks
  • HOA discretion
  • architectural review

Question

Can the HOA treat driveways and landscaping differently than main house structures regarding setbacks?

Short Answer

Yes, governing documents may allow 'modifications' for secondary improvements even if structures have strict setbacks.

Detailed Answer

Governing documents may distinguish between 'building structures' (which must strictly comply with setbacks) and 'secondary improvements' like driveways, grading, or site walls. The documents may allow modifications to setbacks for these secondary items on a case-by-case basis.

Alj Quote

All building Structures shall comply with the above outlined setback distances. Modifications to the above outlined setback distances will be considered on a case-by-case basis for secondary improvements such as grading, landscaping, driveways, site walls, etc.4

Legal Basis

Design Guidelines Section 1, Item 32

Topic Tags

  • setbacks
  • driveways
  • landscaping
  • architectural guidelines

Question

What qualifies as an 'unreasonable hardship' that justifies a variance?

Short Answer

Practical necessities, such as needing access to a garage that otherwise complies with setbacks, can be considered an extenuating circumstance.

Detailed Answer

In this case, the Committee determined that needing driveway access to a new garage (which itself was built within the allowable building envelope) constituted an 'extenuating circumstance.' This practical necessity justified granting a variance for the driveway and grading to encroach into the setback area.

Alj Quote

The hearing record demonstrates that… Association supported the Committee’s determination that needing access to the new RV garage which itself was being built within the building envelope… met the criteria of “extenuating” circumstances… for purposes of granting a “variance” for the new driveway to be placed and necessary grading to occur within the 15’ side-yard setback.5

Legal Basis

Design Guidelines Section 5, Item 12

Topic Tags

  • hardship
  • variances
  • construction

Question

If I lose my case against the HOA, do I get my filing fee back?

Short Answer

No, if the petition is dismissed, the homeowner is typically ordered to bear the cost of the filing fee.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ has the authority to order who pays the costs. In this decision, after dismissing the petition because the homeowners failed to prove a violation, the ALJ ordered the homeowners to pay their own filing fee.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Petitioners bears their $500.00 filing fee.6

Legal Basis

Administrative Order

Topic Tags

  • fees
  • penalties
  • costs

Case

Docket No
22F-H2221018-REL
Case Title
Terry Marvin & Lori J. Lefferts v. The Stone Canyon Community Association, Inc.
Decision Date
2022-08-05
Alj Name
Kay A. Abramsohn
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Questions

Question

What is the burden of proof for a homeowner challenging an HOA's architectural decision?

Short Answer

The homeowner must prove by a 'preponderance of the evidence' that the HOA violated its governing documents.

Detailed Answer

In an administrative hearing regarding an HOA dispute, the petitioner (homeowner) bears the burden of proof. They must demonstrate that it is more probable than not that the Association or its Committee violated specific provisions of the governing documents (such as Design Guidelines).

Alj Quote

Petitioners bear the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that, as alleged, Association through actions of Committee had violated Guidelines Section 1, Items 1 and 32 requirements and Section 5, Item 12 requirements when Committee granted a variance…1

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • burden of proof
  • legal standards
  • evidence

Question

What does 'preponderance of the evidence' mean in an HOA hearing?

Short Answer

It means evidence that is more convincing than the opposing evidence, showing the fact is 'more probable than not.'

Detailed Answer

The ALJ defines this legal standard as evidence that carries greater weight than the evidence offered in opposition. It does not require absolute certainty, but rather that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not.

Alj Quote

A preponderance of the evidence is “[e]vidence which is of greater weight or more convincing than the evidence which is offered in opposition to it; that is, evidence which as a whole shows that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not.”2

Legal Basis

Black's Law Dictionary (6th ed. 1990)

Topic Tags

  • legal definitions
  • standards of evidence

Question

Can my HOA grant a neighbor a variance for construction setbacks?

Short Answer

Yes, if the governing documents grant the Design Review Committee discretion to deviate from requirements in extenuating circumstances.

Detailed Answer

If the Design Guidelines provide the Committee with discretion to deviate from requirements when following them would create an unreasonable hardship or burden, the HOA can validly grant a variance. The ALJ looks for whether the Committee exercised 'reasonable discretion' under this authority.

Alj Quote

The Administrative Law Judge concludes that the hearing record demonstrates that Committee exercised reasonable discretion under its authority to grant… a Section 5, Item 12 deviation, i.e., a variance… to allow the proposed/approved secondary improvements to be placed within the 15’ side-yard setback.3

Legal Basis

Design Guidelines Section 5, Item 12

Topic Tags

  • variances
  • setbacks
  • HOA discretion
  • architectural review

Question

Can the HOA treat driveways and landscaping differently than main house structures regarding setbacks?

Short Answer

Yes, governing documents may allow 'modifications' for secondary improvements even if structures have strict setbacks.

Detailed Answer

Governing documents may distinguish between 'building structures' (which must strictly comply with setbacks) and 'secondary improvements' like driveways, grading, or site walls. The documents may allow modifications to setbacks for these secondary items on a case-by-case basis.

Alj Quote

All building Structures shall comply with the above outlined setback distances. Modifications to the above outlined setback distances will be considered on a case-by-case basis for secondary improvements such as grading, landscaping, driveways, site walls, etc.4

Legal Basis

Design Guidelines Section 1, Item 32

Topic Tags

  • setbacks
  • driveways
  • landscaping
  • architectural guidelines

Question

What qualifies as an 'unreasonable hardship' that justifies a variance?

Short Answer

Practical necessities, such as needing access to a garage that otherwise complies with setbacks, can be considered an extenuating circumstance.

Detailed Answer

In this case, the Committee determined that needing driveway access to a new garage (which itself was built within the allowable building envelope) constituted an 'extenuating circumstance.' This practical necessity justified granting a variance for the driveway and grading to encroach into the setback area.

Alj Quote

The hearing record demonstrates that… Association supported the Committee’s determination that needing access to the new RV garage which itself was being built within the building envelope… met the criteria of “extenuating” circumstances… for purposes of granting a “variance” for the new driveway to be placed and necessary grading to occur within the 15’ side-yard setback.5

Legal Basis

Design Guidelines Section 5, Item 12

Topic Tags

  • hardship
  • variances
  • construction

Question

If I lose my case against the HOA, do I get my filing fee back?

Short Answer

No, if the petition is dismissed, the homeowner is typically ordered to bear the cost of the filing fee.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ has the authority to order who pays the costs. In this decision, after dismissing the petition because the homeowners failed to prove a violation, the ALJ ordered the homeowners to pay their own filing fee.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Petitioners bears their $500.00 filing fee.6

Legal Basis

Administrative Order

Topic Tags

  • fees
  • penalties
  • costs

Case

Docket No
22F-H2221018-REL
Case Title
Terry Marvin & Lori J. Lefferts v. The Stone Canyon Community Association, Inc.
Decision Date
2022-08-05
Alj Name
Kay A. Abramsohn
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Terry Marvin (petitioner)
  • Lori J. Lefferts (petitioner)
    Also referred to as Lori Lebert/Leopards

Respondent Side

  • Nicholas C.S. Nogami (HOA attorney)
    CARPENTER, HAZLEWOOD, DELGADO & BOLEN, LLP
  • Parker C. Fox (HOA attorney)
    CARPENTER, HAZLEWOOD, DELGADO & BOLEN, LLP
  • Sami M. Farhat (HOA attorney)
    CARPENTER, HAZLEWOOD, DELGADO & BOLEN, LLP
  • Mark Saul (HOA attorney)
    CARPENTER, HAZLEWOOD, DELGADO & BOLEN, LLP
    Partner of Mr. Nogami and counsel to the HOA
  • Jerry Young (Consulting Architect)
    Association representative and Consulting Architect for the Design Review Committee
  • Theodore Riggs (DRC member)
    Also referred to as Ted Riggs; witness called by Petitioners
  • Richard Reese (DRC member)
    Also referred to as Dick Reif/Rice/Reef; former DRC member; witness called by Petitioners
  • Kevin Given (DRC member)
    Head of the DRC; voted against Lot 19 approval
  • Steve Hall (DRC member)
    Absent from July 27, 2021 Committee meeting
  • Andrew Deni (Architect)
    Architect for Lot 19 Owners (also referred to as Andy Deni/Denah/Dencki)
  • Martin Coe (Lot owner)
    Lot 19 Owner
  • Lydia Roos (Lot owner)
    Lot 19 Owner
  • Tim Stampson (General Contractor)
    General Contractor for Lot 19 Project (also referred to as Ken Samson)
  • Divine Homes (observer)
    Summer associate observing proceedings with HOA attorneys
  • Edward GA (observer)
    Summer associate observing proceedings with HOA attorneys

Neutral Parties

  • Kay Abramsohn (ALJ)
  • Louis Dettorre (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • A. Hansen (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • D. Gardner (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • d. jones (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • v. nunez (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • c. serrano (OAH staff)
    Signed transmittal
  • Miranda Alvarez (Legal Secretary)
    Signed transmittal (also referred to as M Alvarez)
  • Gina Marcus (Design Review Coordinator)
    Association staff/minutes taker
  • Cindy Nichols (unknown)
    Possible minutes taker

Other Participants

  • Nicholas Dana (Lot owner)
    Owner of Lot 24 and resident of Lot 25
  • Steven Schmidt (observer)
    Petitioner in a different matter, observing the hearing

Wesley T Chadwick v. Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association

Case Summary

Case ID 22F-H2221022-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-06-14
Administrative Law Judge Jenna Clark
Outcome partial
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Wesley T Chadwick Counsel
Respondent Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association Counsel Eadie Rudder, Esq. and Nick Eicher, Esq.

Alleged Violations

CC&Rs Article 10 Section 9

Outcome Summary

Petitioner's petition was granted in part based on the violation of CC&Rs Article 10.9 (failure to provide specific steps to cure violations), resulting in a $500.00 payment to Petitioner. The petition was denied in part regarding alleged violations of CC&Rs Article 4.5, 10.1, and 10.10, as Petitioner failed to sustain the burden of proof on those issues.

Why this result: Petitioner failed to sustain the burden of proof for the allegations concerning CC&Rs Article 4.5 (as it applies solely to construction activities), Article 10.1 (as subsequent letters stemmed from the same issues), and Article 10.10 (as Petitioner failed to allege or establish a violation of a specific law, ordinance or regulation).

Key Issues & Findings

The Association violated Article 10 Section 9 of the CC&Rs by failing to provide specific steps necessary to cure the violation with each violation notice that was sent as required under the CC&Rs

The Association violated Article 10.9 by issuing vague, overbroad, and nondescript violation warning letters that failed to provide the requisite specific steps Petitioner needed to take to satisfactorily remedy the alleged violation(s), such as covering exposed irrigation lines, removing a specific plant, or filling in holes.

Orders: Respondent is ORDERED to pay $500.00 to Petitioner, a pro rata portion of his filing fee, directly to Petitioner within thirty (30) days of this ORDER.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • CC&Rs Article 10.9
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.05
  • ARIZ. ADMIN. CODE R2-19-119

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA enforcement, notice specificity, arbitrary and capricious, CC&R violation, landscaping, weeds
Additional Citations:

  • CC&Rs Article 4 Section 5
  • CC&Rs Article 10 Section 1
  • CC&Rs Article 10 Section 9
  • CC&Rs Article 10 Section 10
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.05
  • ARIZ. ADMIN. CODE R2-19-119

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 946305.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:41 (47.7 KB)

22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 950368.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:45 (46.3 KB)

22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 957992.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:50 (54.5 KB)

22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 958039.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:42:55 (7.8 KB)

22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 960467.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:43:00 (49.7 KB)

22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 977411.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:43:03 (229.1 KB)





Briefing Doc – 22F-H2221022-REL


Briefing Document: Chadwick v. Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association

Executive Summary

This document synthesizes the proceedings and outcome of the administrative case Wesley T Chadwick v. Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association (No. 22F-H2221022-REL). The dispute centered on a series of six violation notices and associated fines issued by the Association to the Petitioner regarding the landscaping of his front yard between January and June 2021.

The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) ultimately ruled in partial favor of the Petitioner, finding that the Association violated its own governing documents. The core of the decision rested on the finding that the Association’s violation notices were “vague, overbroad, and nondescript,” failing to provide the specific steps necessary for the homeowner to cure the alleged violations as required by the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). Critically, the ALJ also determined that the Association cited an inapplicable article of the CC&Rs (pertaining to construction activities) in all of its notices, when a different article (concerning landscaping maintenance) should have been used.

As a result, the Petitioner’s petition was granted in part, and the Association was ordered to pay the Petitioner $500.00, representing a pro rata portion of his filing fee. While the petition’s claims of improper fine progression and violations of state law were denied, the central finding regarding the insufficiency of the notices effectively invalidated the basis for the Association’s enforcement action.

Case Overview

Case Name

Wesley T Chadwick, Petitioner, vs. Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association, Respondent

Case Number

22F-H2221022-REL

Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH)

Presiding Judge

Administrative Law Judge Jenna Clark

Petitioner

Wesley T Chadwick (Appeared on his own behalf)

Respondent

Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association

Respondent’s Counsel

Nick Eicher, Esq. & Eadie Rudder, Esq. (Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen, LLP)

Key Witnesses

Danielle Miglio (Association Property Manager), Cynthia Ecker (Association Board Vice President)

Hearing Date

May 25, 2022

Decision Date

June 14, 2022

Chronology of the Dispute

The conflict unfolded over approximately six months, followed by a period of appeals and the formal administrative hearing.

Jan 25, 2021

Petitioner receives 1st Notice citing Article 4.5 for weeds. Directive is “PLEASE REMOVE WEEDS.”

Feb 09, 2021

Petitioner receives 2nd Notice, identical to the first, with an added $50.00 fine.

Feb 10, 2021

Petitioner hires contractors to remove dead cacti (350)andweeds(100).

Feb 25, 2021

Petitioner receives 3rd Notice, identical to the first two, with an added $100.00 fine.

Mar 18, 2021

Petitioner and the Association’s property management company (OPM) reach an agreement via email: the $100 fine is waived in exchange for payment of the $50 fine, provided no new weed violations occur within 90 days.

Mar 23, 2021

Petitioner receives 4th Notice (dated March 15), which now includes the directive “fix rock area” and a $100.00 fine.

Mar 30, 2021

Petitioner receives 5th Notice, identical to the fourth, with another $100.00 fine.

Apr 05, 2021

In an email exchange, OPM manager Danielle Miglio provides a photo with circled areas of concern, identifying exposed irrigation lines, holes, weeds, and an overgrown plant for the first time with specificity.

May 2021

Petitioner submits a formal request to the Board of Directors to review the case and waive fines.

June 2021

Petitioner is informed his request was denied by the Board.

June 16, 2021

Petitioner receives 6th Notice, which reverts to “PLEASE REMOVE WEEDS” and adds a $100.00 fine.

June 22, 2021

OPM informs Petitioner the Board would not waive fees until the violation is closed, but could remove $75 after three months of compliance.

Sep 23, 2021

Petitioner appears at a Board meeting to appeal; his request is again denied.

Oct 14, 2021

Petitioner files his formal petition with the Arizona Department of Real Estate.

May 25, 2022

An all-day evidentiary hearing is held at the Office of Administrative Hearings.

June 14, 2022

The Administrative Law Judge issues a final decision.

Core Allegations and Arguments

The hearing addressed four specific issues raised in the Petitioner’s petition, which formed the basis of the legal arguments.

Petitioner’s Position (Wesley T Chadwick)

1. Violation of CC&R Article 10.9 (Lack of Specificity): The violation notices were fundamentally deficient because they failed to provide “specific steps which must be taken… to cure the violation.” Directives like “PLEASE REMOVE WEEDS” and “fix rock area” were overly broad. The entire front yard consists of rock, making “fix rock area” ambiguous. The Association only provided clarity with a circled photograph after issuing multiple notices and fines.

2. Violation of CC&R Article 4.5 (Exceeding Authority): The Association exceeded its authority by issuing violations for issues not explicitly covered by the language it quoted in the notices, such as exposed irrigation lines or a specific plant which was not a weed. The notices selectively quoted the portion of Article 4.5 related to weeds and debris, omitting the broader “unsightly” language, which misled the Petitioner as to the nature of the violation.

3. Violation of CC&R Article 10.1 (Improper Fine Progression): The introduction of a new issue, “fix rock area,” in the fourth notice constituted a new violation. As such, it should have been preceded by a warning notice, not an immediate $100 fine as part of a continuing violation.

4. Violation of CC&R Article 10.10 (Arbitrary and Capricious Enforcement): The Association enforced its rules selectively and arbitrarily. This was evidenced during the hearing when the Board’s Vice President, Cynthia Ecker, admitted under oath that her own property had exposed irrigation lines visible from the yard, yet she had never received a violation notice.

Respondent’s Position (Entrada Mountainside HOA)

1. Broad Discretionary Authority: CC&R Article 4.5 grants the Association’s Architectural Committee the “exclusive right to determine the existence of any nuisance” and provides wide discretion to enforce against any condition deemed “unsanitary, unsightly, offensive, or detrimental.”

2. Continuing Nature of the Violation: The entire series of violations stemmed from a single, ongoing issue of poor landscape maintenance. The Petitioner created the “debris”—the hole and exposed irrigation lines—by failing to complete the remediation after removing the cacti. This was a continuation of the original violation, not a new one, and thus did not require a new warning notice.

3. Petitioner’s Responsibility: The Petitioner failed to use his right to appeal the initial notices and only engaged with the Association after three notices had been issued. He admitted to not having reviewed the Association’s official landscape guidelines. The onus was on him to seek clarification if he found the notices unclear.

4. Good Faith Efforts to Comply: The Association manager went “above and beyond” by sending a detailed photo with circled areas, a measure not typically taken. The Association also demonstrated a willingness to work with the Petitioner on fines by waiving the initial $100 fine and later offering a potential $75 reduction.

Administrative Law Judge’s Decision and Rationale

The ALJ’s decision focused on the procedural adequacy and legal foundation of the Association’s violation notices.

Final Ruling

The petition was GRANTED, in part, and DENIED, in part.

Granted: The claim that the Association violated CC&R Article 10.9 by failing to provide specific notice was upheld.

Denied: The claims that the Association violated CC&R Articles 4.5, 10.1, and 10.10 were not sustained.

Key Findings and Rationale

1. Violation of CC&R Article 10.9 (Notice of Violation): This was the central finding in the Petitioner’s favor. The ALJ concluded the Association failed its contractual obligation to provide adequate notice.

Direct Quote from Decision: “Here, what the Association did was essentially tell Petitioner to ‘fix this’ without telling him exactly what needed fixing and affording him a reasonable opportunity to comply.”

◦ The directives “PLEASE REMOVE WEEDS” and “fix rock area” were deemed insufficient to inform a person of ordinary prudence of the specific actions required, such as covering irrigation lines or removing a particular plant.

◦ The fact that the Association later had to provide a photograph with “circled with specific areas of concern after issuing multiple warning letters” was cited as evidence that the initial notices were inadequate.

2. Misapplication of CC&R Article 4.5 (Nuisances): In a critical finding, the ALJ determined that the Association had cited the wrong governing article in all six of its notices.

◦ The decision states: “It is clear from the record that CC&Rs Article 4.5 is inapplicable as the regulation pertains solely to construction activities… CC&Rs Article 4.4 [Maintenance of Landscaping] should have been used by Respondent.”

◦ This finding invalidated the legal basis for every notice issued to the Petitioner.

3. Ruling on Other Allegations:

Article 10.1 (Enforcement): The ALJ found no violation, concluding that notices 2-6 all “stemmed from the same issue(s)” raised in the first letter and were not new violations requiring a separate warning.

Article 10.10 (Laws, Ordinances and Regulations): The ALJ found no violation because the “Petitioner failed to allege that Respondent violated a specific law, ordinance or regulation.” This indicates the claim of arbitrary enforcement was not sustained on a technical basis, despite the testimony from the Board’s Vice President.

Final Order

Based on the finding that the Association violated CC&R Article 10.9:

IT IS ORDERED that Respondent pay $500.00 to Petitioner; a pro rata portion of his filing fee, to be paid directly to Petitioner within thirty (30) days of the ORDER.


Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Wesley T Chadwick (petitioner)

Respondent Side

  • Nick Eicher (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen, LLP
    Counsel for Respondent
  • Eadie Rudder (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen, LLP
    Counsel for Respondent
  • Danielle Miglio (property manager, witness)
    Oasis Community Management
  • Cynthia Marie Ecker (board member, witness, VP)
    Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association
  • Mara Jolie (property manager)
    OPM
    HOA assistant manager

Neutral Parties

  • Jenna Clark (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
  • Louis Dettorre (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • Miranda Alvarez (legal secretary)
    OAH
    Transmission staff
  • DGardner (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission
  • AHansen (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission
  • vnunez (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission
  • djones (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission
  • labril (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission

Other Participants

  • c. serrano (staff)
    Transmission staff

Wesley T Chadwick v. Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association

Case Summary

Case ID 22F-H2221022-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-06-14
Administrative Law Judge Jenna Clark
Outcome partial
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Wesley T Chadwick Counsel
Respondent Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association Counsel Eadie Rudder, Esq. and Nick Eicher, Esq.

Alleged Violations

CC&Rs Article 10 Section 9

Outcome Summary

Petitioner's petition was granted in part based on the violation of CC&Rs Article 10.9 (failure to provide specific steps to cure violations), resulting in a $500.00 payment to Petitioner. The petition was denied in part regarding alleged violations of CC&Rs Article 4.5, 10.1, and 10.10, as Petitioner failed to sustain the burden of proof on those issues.

Why this result: Petitioner failed to sustain the burden of proof for the allegations concerning CC&Rs Article 4.5 (as it applies solely to construction activities), Article 10.1 (as subsequent letters stemmed from the same issues), and Article 10.10 (as Petitioner failed to allege or establish a violation of a specific law, ordinance or regulation).

Key Issues & Findings

The Association violated Article 10 Section 9 of the CC&Rs by failing to provide specific steps necessary to cure the violation with each violation notice that was sent as required under the CC&Rs

The Association violated Article 10.9 by issuing vague, overbroad, and nondescript violation warning letters that failed to provide the requisite specific steps Petitioner needed to take to satisfactorily remedy the alleged violation(s), such as covering exposed irrigation lines, removing a specific plant, or filling in holes.

Orders: Respondent is ORDERED to pay $500.00 to Petitioner, a pro rata portion of his filing fee, directly to Petitioner within thirty (30) days of this ORDER.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • CC&Rs Article 10.9
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.05
  • ARIZ. ADMIN. CODE R2-19-119

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA enforcement, notice specificity, arbitrary and capricious, CC&R violation, landscaping, weeds
Additional Citations:

  • CC&Rs Article 4 Section 5
  • CC&Rs Article 10 Section 1
  • CC&Rs Article 10 Section 9
  • CC&Rs Article 10 Section 10
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.05
  • ARIZ. ADMIN. CODE R2-19-119

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 946305.pdf

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22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 950368.pdf

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22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 957992.pdf

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22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 958039.pdf

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22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 960467.pdf

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22F-H2221022-REL Decision – 977411.pdf

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Briefing Doc – 22F-H2221022-REL


Briefing Document: Chadwick v. Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association

Executive Summary

This document synthesizes the proceedings and outcome of the administrative case Wesley T Chadwick v. Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association (No. 22F-H2221022-REL). The dispute centered on a series of six violation notices and associated fines issued by the Association to the Petitioner regarding the landscaping of his front yard between January and June 2021.

The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) ultimately ruled in partial favor of the Petitioner, finding that the Association violated its own governing documents. The core of the decision rested on the finding that the Association’s violation notices were “vague, overbroad, and nondescript,” failing to provide the specific steps necessary for the homeowner to cure the alleged violations as required by the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). Critically, the ALJ also determined that the Association cited an inapplicable article of the CC&Rs (pertaining to construction activities) in all of its notices, when a different article (concerning landscaping maintenance) should have been used.

As a result, the Petitioner’s petition was granted in part, and the Association was ordered to pay the Petitioner $500.00, representing a pro rata portion of his filing fee. While the petition’s claims of improper fine progression and violations of state law were denied, the central finding regarding the insufficiency of the notices effectively invalidated the basis for the Association’s enforcement action.

Case Overview

Case Name

Wesley T Chadwick, Petitioner, vs. Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association, Respondent

Case Number

22F-H2221022-REL

Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH)

Presiding Judge

Administrative Law Judge Jenna Clark

Petitioner

Wesley T Chadwick (Appeared on his own behalf)

Respondent

Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association

Respondent’s Counsel

Nick Eicher, Esq. & Eadie Rudder, Esq. (Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen, LLP)

Key Witnesses

Danielle Miglio (Association Property Manager), Cynthia Ecker (Association Board Vice President)

Hearing Date

May 25, 2022

Decision Date

June 14, 2022

Chronology of the Dispute

The conflict unfolded over approximately six months, followed by a period of appeals and the formal administrative hearing.

Jan 25, 2021

Petitioner receives 1st Notice citing Article 4.5 for weeds. Directive is “PLEASE REMOVE WEEDS.”

Feb 09, 2021

Petitioner receives 2nd Notice, identical to the first, with an added $50.00 fine.

Feb 10, 2021

Petitioner hires contractors to remove dead cacti (350)andweeds(100).

Feb 25, 2021

Petitioner receives 3rd Notice, identical to the first two, with an added $100.00 fine.

Mar 18, 2021

Petitioner and the Association’s property management company (OPM) reach an agreement via email: the $100 fine is waived in exchange for payment of the $50 fine, provided no new weed violations occur within 90 days.

Mar 23, 2021

Petitioner receives 4th Notice (dated March 15), which now includes the directive “fix rock area” and a $100.00 fine.

Mar 30, 2021

Petitioner receives 5th Notice, identical to the fourth, with another $100.00 fine.

Apr 05, 2021

In an email exchange, OPM manager Danielle Miglio provides a photo with circled areas of concern, identifying exposed irrigation lines, holes, weeds, and an overgrown plant for the first time with specificity.

May 2021

Petitioner submits a formal request to the Board of Directors to review the case and waive fines.

June 2021

Petitioner is informed his request was denied by the Board.

June 16, 2021

Petitioner receives 6th Notice, which reverts to “PLEASE REMOVE WEEDS” and adds a $100.00 fine.

June 22, 2021

OPM informs Petitioner the Board would not waive fees until the violation is closed, but could remove $75 after three months of compliance.

Sep 23, 2021

Petitioner appears at a Board meeting to appeal; his request is again denied.

Oct 14, 2021

Petitioner files his formal petition with the Arizona Department of Real Estate.

May 25, 2022

An all-day evidentiary hearing is held at the Office of Administrative Hearings.

June 14, 2022

The Administrative Law Judge issues a final decision.

Core Allegations and Arguments

The hearing addressed four specific issues raised in the Petitioner’s petition, which formed the basis of the legal arguments.

Petitioner’s Position (Wesley T Chadwick)

1. Violation of CC&R Article 10.9 (Lack of Specificity): The violation notices were fundamentally deficient because they failed to provide “specific steps which must be taken… to cure the violation.” Directives like “PLEASE REMOVE WEEDS” and “fix rock area” were overly broad. The entire front yard consists of rock, making “fix rock area” ambiguous. The Association only provided clarity with a circled photograph after issuing multiple notices and fines.

2. Violation of CC&R Article 4.5 (Exceeding Authority): The Association exceeded its authority by issuing violations for issues not explicitly covered by the language it quoted in the notices, such as exposed irrigation lines or a specific plant which was not a weed. The notices selectively quoted the portion of Article 4.5 related to weeds and debris, omitting the broader “unsightly” language, which misled the Petitioner as to the nature of the violation.

3. Violation of CC&R Article 10.1 (Improper Fine Progression): The introduction of a new issue, “fix rock area,” in the fourth notice constituted a new violation. As such, it should have been preceded by a warning notice, not an immediate $100 fine as part of a continuing violation.

4. Violation of CC&R Article 10.10 (Arbitrary and Capricious Enforcement): The Association enforced its rules selectively and arbitrarily. This was evidenced during the hearing when the Board’s Vice President, Cynthia Ecker, admitted under oath that her own property had exposed irrigation lines visible from the yard, yet she had never received a violation notice.

Respondent’s Position (Entrada Mountainside HOA)

1. Broad Discretionary Authority: CC&R Article 4.5 grants the Association’s Architectural Committee the “exclusive right to determine the existence of any nuisance” and provides wide discretion to enforce against any condition deemed “unsanitary, unsightly, offensive, or detrimental.”

2. Continuing Nature of the Violation: The entire series of violations stemmed from a single, ongoing issue of poor landscape maintenance. The Petitioner created the “debris”—the hole and exposed irrigation lines—by failing to complete the remediation after removing the cacti. This was a continuation of the original violation, not a new one, and thus did not require a new warning notice.

3. Petitioner’s Responsibility: The Petitioner failed to use his right to appeal the initial notices and only engaged with the Association after three notices had been issued. He admitted to not having reviewed the Association’s official landscape guidelines. The onus was on him to seek clarification if he found the notices unclear.

4. Good Faith Efforts to Comply: The Association manager went “above and beyond” by sending a detailed photo with circled areas, a measure not typically taken. The Association also demonstrated a willingness to work with the Petitioner on fines by waiving the initial $100 fine and later offering a potential $75 reduction.

Administrative Law Judge’s Decision and Rationale

The ALJ’s decision focused on the procedural adequacy and legal foundation of the Association’s violation notices.

Final Ruling

The petition was GRANTED, in part, and DENIED, in part.

Granted: The claim that the Association violated CC&R Article 10.9 by failing to provide specific notice was upheld.

Denied: The claims that the Association violated CC&R Articles 4.5, 10.1, and 10.10 were not sustained.

Key Findings and Rationale

1. Violation of CC&R Article 10.9 (Notice of Violation): This was the central finding in the Petitioner’s favor. The ALJ concluded the Association failed its contractual obligation to provide adequate notice.

Direct Quote from Decision: “Here, what the Association did was essentially tell Petitioner to ‘fix this’ without telling him exactly what needed fixing and affording him a reasonable opportunity to comply.”

◦ The directives “PLEASE REMOVE WEEDS” and “fix rock area” were deemed insufficient to inform a person of ordinary prudence of the specific actions required, such as covering irrigation lines or removing a particular plant.

◦ The fact that the Association later had to provide a photograph with “circled with specific areas of concern after issuing multiple warning letters” was cited as evidence that the initial notices were inadequate.

2. Misapplication of CC&R Article 4.5 (Nuisances): In a critical finding, the ALJ determined that the Association had cited the wrong governing article in all six of its notices.

◦ The decision states: “It is clear from the record that CC&Rs Article 4.5 is inapplicable as the regulation pertains solely to construction activities… CC&Rs Article 4.4 [Maintenance of Landscaping] should have been used by Respondent.”

◦ This finding invalidated the legal basis for every notice issued to the Petitioner.

3. Ruling on Other Allegations:

Article 10.1 (Enforcement): The ALJ found no violation, concluding that notices 2-6 all “stemmed from the same issue(s)” raised in the first letter and were not new violations requiring a separate warning.

Article 10.10 (Laws, Ordinances and Regulations): The ALJ found no violation because the “Petitioner failed to allege that Respondent violated a specific law, ordinance or regulation.” This indicates the claim of arbitrary enforcement was not sustained on a technical basis, despite the testimony from the Board’s Vice President.

Final Order

Based on the finding that the Association violated CC&R Article 10.9:

IT IS ORDERED that Respondent pay $500.00 to Petitioner; a pro rata portion of his filing fee, to be paid directly to Petitioner within thirty (30) days of the ORDER.


Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Wesley T Chadwick (petitioner)

Respondent Side

  • Nick Eicher (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen, LLP
    Counsel for Respondent
  • Eadie Rudder (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen, LLP
    Counsel for Respondent
  • Danielle Miglio (property manager, witness)
    Oasis Community Management
  • Cynthia Marie Ecker (board member, witness, VP)
    Entrada Mountainside Homeowners Association
  • Mara Jolie (property manager)
    OPM
    HOA assistant manager

Neutral Parties

  • Jenna Clark (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
  • Louis Dettorre (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • Miranda Alvarez (legal secretary)
    OAH
    Transmission staff
  • DGardner (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission
  • AHansen (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission
  • vnunez (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission
  • djones (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission
  • labril (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Email recipient for transmission

Other Participants

  • c. serrano (staff)
    Transmission staff

Marc Archer v. PMPE Community Association, Inc.

Note: A Rehearing was requested for this case. The dashboard statistics reflect the final outcome of the rehearing process.

Case Summary

Case ID 21F-H2121040-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-03-30
Administrative Law Judge Thomas Shedden
Outcome full
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Marc Archer Counsel
Respondent PMPE Community Association, Inc. Counsel Nicholas C. S. Nogami

Alleged Violations

ARIZ. REV. STAT. section 33-1817(B)(3)

Outcome Summary

The Association unreasonably withheld approval for Marc Archer's two-story garage addition, thereby violating ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3). The Association was ordered to grant preliminary approval for the design and refund the $500 filing fee.

Key Issues & Findings

Unreasonable withholding of architectural approval

The Association unreasonably withheld preliminary approval for the Petitioner's January 2020 two-story garage addition request. The ALJ determined that none of the three reasons provided by the Association for the denial were reasonable.

Orders: The Association must grant preliminary approval for the proposed design and must pay the Petitioner his filing fee of $500.00 within thirty days of the Order.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.02(A)
  • AR Section 1.1
  • AR Section 4.4
  • AR Section 4.2

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA architectural approval, unreasonable denial, two-story garage addition, filing fee refund
Additional Citations:

  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.02(A)
  • ARIZ. ADMIN. CODE § R2-19-119
  • AR Section 1.1
  • AR Section 4.4
  • AR Section 4.2

Marc Archer v. PMPE Community Association, Inc.

Case Summary

Case ID 21F-H2121040-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-03-30
Administrative Law Judge Thomas Shedden
Outcome full
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Marc Archer Counsel
Respondent PMPE Community Association, Inc. Counsel Nicholas C. S. Nogami

Alleged Violations

ARIZ. REV. STAT. section 33-1817(B)(3)

Outcome Summary

The Association unreasonably withheld approval for Marc Archer's two-story garage addition, thereby violating ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3). The Association was ordered to grant preliminary approval for the design and refund the $500 filing fee.

Key Issues & Findings

Unreasonable withholding of architectural approval

The Association unreasonably withheld preliminary approval for the Petitioner's January 2020 two-story garage addition request. The ALJ determined that none of the three reasons provided by the Association for the denial were reasonable.

Orders: The Association must grant preliminary approval for the proposed design and must pay the Petitioner his filing fee of $500.00 within thirty days of the Order.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.02(A)
  • AR Section 1.1
  • AR Section 4.4
  • AR Section 4.2

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA architectural approval, unreasonable denial, two-story garage addition, filing fee refund
Additional Citations:

  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.02(A)
  • ARIZ. ADMIN. CODE § R2-19-119
  • AR Section 1.1
  • AR Section 4.4
  • AR Section 4.2




Briefing Doc – 21F-H2121040-REL-RHG


Briefing Document: Archer v. PMPE Community Association, Inc.

Executive Summary

This document synthesizes the key themes, evidence, and legal proceedings in the administrative case Marc Archer v. PMPE Community Association, Inc. (No. 21F-H2121040-REL). The central conflict revolves around Petitioner Marc Archer’s proposal for a two-story addition to his home, which was denied by the Respondent, the PMPE Community Association’s Architectural Committee (AC). Mr. Archer alleged this denial was an unreasonable withholding of approval, violating Arizona statute § 33-1817(B)(3).

The case is marked by a protracted history, including a previous denial for a different one-story design in 2019 and an earlier ruling in this matter (December 2020) that found the Association had violated its own procedures by not providing a written reason for its April 2020 denial. This procedural failure led to a formal denial letter on December 30, 2020, which became the central focus of the subsequent hearings.

The Association cited three primary reasons for the denial: 1) the addition lacked harmony with the existing structure, resembling a “large box”; 2) the proposal to use painted roof tiles was unacceptable; and 3) the design lacked sufficient architectural elements to break up large, flat expanses.

Mr. Archer countered with extensive evidence, including testimony from building industry experts and a registered architect, arguing that the design was harmonious, incorporated numerous architectural details found on the existing house, and that the Association’s objections were unfounded and inconsistent. The proceedings revealed significant confusion stemming from the Association’s denial letter, which conflated mandatory reasons for denial with what it later claimed were “advisory only” suggestions.

Ultimately, Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Thomas Shedden ruled in favor of Mr. Archer. The March 30, 2022 decision concluded that the Association’s reasons for denial were unreasonable and not supported by a preponderance of the evidence. The Association was ordered to grant preliminary approval for the project and reimburse Mr. Archer’s $500 filing fee. A subsequent request for rehearing by the Association was withdrawn, making the ALJ’s decision final.

1. Case Overview

Case Number

21F-H2121040-REL

Petitioner

Marc Archer

Respondent

PMPE Community Association, Inc.

Presiding Judge

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Thomas Shedden

Core Allegation

The Association violated ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3), which states, “Approval of a construction project’s architectural designs, plans and amendments shall not unreasonably be withheld.”

Subject of Dispute

The denial of Mr. Archer’s January 2020 preliminary submittal for a two-story garage addition to his home at 8619 North Place, Phoenix, AZ.

2. Detailed Procedural History

The dispute has a multi-year history involving multiple architectural proposals and administrative hearings.

2019 Denial (One-Story Design): Mr. Archer first sought approval for a one-story garage with a flat roof. The Association denied final approval. In a decision dated September 3, 2019 (Docket 19F-H1919063-REL), an ALJ concluded the Association had not violated the statute, noting the architectural rules favored pitched roofs and the structure would be visible above a nine-foot wall.

January 2020 Submittal (Two-Story Design): Mr. Archer submitted the current proposal for a two-story garage addition.

April 10, 2020 Denial (No Written Basis): The Association’s Architectural Committee (AC) denied the proposal during a conference call but failed to provide a written basis for the denial, as required by its own rules.

December 3, 2020 ALJ Decision (Procedural Violation): In response to a petition filed by Mr. Archer, an ALJ determined the Association had violated its CC&Rs and the state statute by not providing a written reason for denial. The decision explicitly noted it was not a finding on the merits of the architectural design itself.

December 30, 2020 Written Denial: The Association issued a formal written response outlining its reasons for denial. This document’s confusing structure, with separate sections for “reasons for denial” and “comments… for resubmittal,” became a major point of contention.

2021-2022 Hearings: Hearings on the reasonableness of the denial were held before ALJ Thomas Shedden on July 29, 2021, October 22, 2021, and January 31, 2022.

March 30, 2022 ALJ Decision: ALJ Shedden found in favor of Mr. Archer, ruling the Association’s denial was unreasonable.

July 13, 2022 Finality: The Association requested a rehearing but subsequently withdrew the request, rendering the March 30, 2022 decision final.

3. The Association’s Rationale for Denial

The Association’s denial, as articulated in the December 30, 2020 letter and testimony from its president, Keith Kauffman, was based on three main points.

3.1 Lack of Harmony and Integration

The primary objection was that the addition failed to “harmonize with the current building structure” as required by the Architectural Rules (ARs).

Argument: The Association contended Mr. Archer was “attaching a large two-story ‘box’ to [his] home and not incorporating the addition into the current structure.”

Kauffman’s Testimony: Mr. Kauffman elaborated that the addition was akin to “building a structure and then attaching that structure instead of… building an addition to his home.” Key issues he identified were that the new roofline did not blend into the existing second-story roof and that the structure connected to the house at only two points. The committee felt it would not look like it “was there from the beginning.”

3.2 Unacceptable Painted Roof Tiles

The second reason for denial was that Mr. Archer’s proposal to paint new roof tiles to match the existing roof was unacceptable.

Argument: According to the letter, “painted roof tiles are not acceptable and are not identified as under section 4.4 of the archetypal rule.”

Kauffman’s Testimony: Mr. Kauffman argued that because AR Section 4.4 does not explicitly state that painted tiles are acceptable, they are therefore not acceptable. He stated, “[The committee] didn’t feel that in this kind of development… that is not an acceptable… way to… tile one’s roof.”

3.3 Insufficient Architectural Expression

The final reason was that the design lacked sufficient architectural elements to break up large, flat wall expanses.

Argument: The denial stated, “There needs to be architectural elements per pop out in windows etc. Prim to break up expanses and add ‘architectural expression’ to the addition as outlined in 4.2.”

Testimony: Both Mr. Kauffman and community manager Gail Zigler testified that the proposed windows were not appropriate because they were not the same size as other windows on the house.

4. The Petitioner’s Rebuttal and Evidence

Mr. Archer presented a comprehensive case to counter each of the Association’s points, supported by his own testimony and that of multiple expert witnesses.

4.1 Design Harmony and Architectural Details

Mr. Archer argued that his design was meticulously planned to be harmonious with the existing home.

Existing Elements: He demonstrated that the proposed addition incorporated numerous features already present on his house, including stucco pop-outs, soffit details, and eave designs. During cross-examination of Mr. Kauffman, Mr. Archer used photographs to establish that pop-outs, which the committee initially claimed were not present elsewhere on the house, did in fact exist near the bay windows.

Roofline: He testified that staggering the rooflines adds aesthetic appeal and that tying the new roof directly into the existing second-story roof was not aesthetically viable.

Expert Opinion:

Greg Hancock, a builder of 25,000-30,000 homes, testified that the proposed addition is “not non-harmonious.”

Dan Earlie, with 47 years in homebuilding, opined that Mr. Archer “went overboard in an effort to harmonize the addition.”

Thomas Bragg, a registered architect, concluded in a sealed affidavit that the proposal was in compliance with the ARs, noting the design “matched the existing architecture” and was “varied and does not present any large unbroken wall areas with the blended details.”

4.2 Defense of Roof Tiles and Window Design

Mr. Archer presented evidence that the objections regarding tiles and windows were unreasonable.

Painted Tiles: He provided evidence that painting roof tiles is no different than painting stucco, as both are cement-based products. Furthermore, he noted that the ARs do not contain any prohibition on painting tiles, whereas other materials like vinyl siding are explicitly prohibited. During the hearings, he also indicated he may have located matching tiles, potentially rendering the issue moot.

Window Sizes: Evidence showed that window sizes on Mr. Archer’s existing house, as well as on other houses in the community, already vary.

4.3 Witness Testimony

In addition to the building experts, a neighbor provided testimony supporting Mr. Archer’s position.

Dr. Victor Zach, who lives across the street, testified that he is not opposed to the proposed addition.

5. Key Hearing Dynamics and Controversies

5.1 The Confounding Denial Letter

The structure of the December 30, 2020 letter was a central issue.

• Mr. Kauffman testified that the second set of six bullet points was “advisory only” and intended to provide guidance.

• However, this section contained two of the three official reasons for denial (roof tiles and architectural elements) and included the statement that the addition “will be limited to a single story,” which Mr. Kauffman later admitted under questioning was not a firm requirement.

• The ALJ noted this created significant confusion: “At the hearing, Mr. Kauffman testified that the second set of bullets was advisory only, which was not clear to Mr. Archer until the hearing.”

5.2 Irrelevant Considerations by the Committee

Evidence from a previous hearing revealed that the AC’s decision-making process was influenced by factors outside the scope of architectural review.

• A prior ALJ decision found that during the April 10, 2020 conference call, “at least two members expressed their concerns with how Petitioner was planning to use the new addition. Specifically, the members were concerned Petitioner was going to accumulate more ‘junk’.”

• In the current hearing, Mr. Archer played an audio recording where a prior judge asked Mr. Kauffman, “Is there anything in the architectural guidelines that says how a structure is going to be used should affect whether or not it’s approved?”

5.3 The “Collaborative Process” Breakdown

Mr. Kauffman repeatedly testified that the approval process is intended to be collaborative, yet acknowledged that no discussions occurred after the April 2020 denial. The Association’s stance was that Mr. Archer failed to engage, while Mr. Archer felt he was facing a “moving target.” The ALJ highlighted the lack of clarity from the Association, which hindered any potential collaboration. The judge expressed surprise at the need to clarify that the existing house must be considered in the review:

“I don’t see how you could possibly make a decision without taking the house into consideration. And I apologize… that just strikes me as so self-evident that… I’m surprised we we’ve had to have it out.” – ALJ Thomas Shedden

6. Final Adjudication and Outcome

In his March 30, 2022 decision, ALJ Thomas Shedden ruled definitively in favor of the Petitioner, Marc Archer.

6.1 Conclusions of Law

The decision found that Mr. Archer had met his burden of proof to show the Association unreasonably withheld approval. The ALJ systematically dismantled each of the Association’s reasons for denial:

1. Harmony: “There was no substantial evidence adduced showing that Mr. Archer’s proposed addition will dominate or sharply contrast with the community.” The judge noted that other houses have more than one roofline, making the proposed addition consistent with the neighborhood.

2. Painted Roof Tiles: “The preponderance of the evidence shows that the Association acted outside its scope of authority because the ARs do not include a prohibition on painting tiles.”

3. Architectural Expression: “Mr. Archer provided credible evidence showing that the proposed addition will provide architectural expression as required by AR section 4.2.”

6.2 Final Order

Based on these conclusions, the Judge issued a two-part order:

1. IT IS ORDERED that Marc Archer is the prevailing party in this matter and that the Association should approve his preliminary design;

2. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Association must pay to Mr. Archer Petitioner his filing fee of $500.00 within thirty days of this Order.

The Association’s subsequent withdrawal of its rehearing request finalized this decision.


Marc Archer v. PMPE Community Association, Inc.

Case Summary

Case ID 21F-H2121040-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-03-30
Administrative Law Judge Thomas Shedden
Outcome full
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Marc Archer Counsel
Respondent PMPE Community Association, Inc. Counsel Nicholas C. S. Nogami

Alleged Violations

ARIZ. REV. STAT. section 33-1817(B)(3)

Outcome Summary

The Association unreasonably withheld approval for Marc Archer's two-story garage addition, thereby violating ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3). The Association was ordered to grant preliminary approval for the design and refund the $500 filing fee.

Key Issues & Findings

Unreasonable withholding of architectural approval

The Association unreasonably withheld preliminary approval for the Petitioner's January 2020 two-story garage addition request. The ALJ determined that none of the three reasons provided by the Association for the denial were reasonable.

Orders: The Association must grant preliminary approval for the proposed design and must pay the Petitioner his filing fee of $500.00 within thirty days of the Order.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.02(A)
  • AR Section 1.1
  • AR Section 4.4
  • AR Section 4.2

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA architectural approval, unreasonable denial, two-story garage addition, filing fee refund
Additional Citations:

  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1817(B)(3)
  • ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.02(A)
  • ARIZ. ADMIN. CODE § R2-19-119
  • AR Section 1.1
  • AR Section 4.4
  • AR Section 4.2

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

21F-H2121040-REL Decision – 928659.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:37:06 (39.6 KB)

21F-H2121040-REL Decision – 943581.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:37:10 (37.9 KB)

21F-H2121040-REL Decision – 953334.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:37:13 (45.2 KB)

21F-H2121040-REL Decision – 958716.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:37:16 (124.7 KB)





Study Guide – 21F-H2121040-REL


{ “case”: { “docket_no”: “21F-H2121040-REL”, “case_title”: “Marc Archer v. PMPE Community Association, Inc.”, “decision_date”: “2022-03-30”, “alj_name”: “Thomas Shedden”, “tribunal”: “OAH”, “agency”: “ADRE” }, “questions”: [ { “question”: “Can my HOA unreasonably refuse to approve my architectural plans?”, “short_answer”: “No, state law prohibits the unreasonable withholding of approval for construction projects.”, “detailed_answer”: “Arizona law explicitly states that an HOA cannot unreasonably withhold approval for architectural designs, plans, or amendments. If an HOA denies a request, the denial must be based on reasonable grounds supported by the community documents.”, “alj_quote”: “ARIZ. REV. STAT. section 33-1817(B)(3) provides that “Approval of a construction project’s architectural designs, plans and amendments shall not unreasonably be withheld.””, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1817(B)(3)”, “topic_tags”: [ “architectural review”, “homeowner rights”, “statutory compliance” ] }, { “question”: “Is the HOA required to give me a written reason if they deny my project?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, failing to provide a written reason for denial can be considered a violation of the statute.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this dispute, a prior decision established that the HOA violated the law by failing to provide the homeowner with a written explanation for denying preliminary approval. The homeowner must be informed of the specific basis for the decision.”, “alj_quote”: “In a Decision dated December 3, 2020, the ALJ in that matter determined that the Association had violated its CC&Rs and section 33-1817(B)(3) because it did not provide Mr. Archer with a written reason for denying preliminary approval.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1817(B)(3)”, “topic_tags”: [ “procedural requirements”, “due process”, “denial notices” ] }, { “question”: “Can the HOA deny my request based on a rule that isn’t written down?”, “short_answer”: “Generally no. If the architectural rules do not explicitly prohibit a specific material or method, the HOA may be acting outside its authority to deny it.”, “detailed_answer”: “The ALJ found that the HOA acted outside its authority by denying a request to paint roof tiles because the architectural rules (ARs) did not explicitly prohibit painting tiles, whereas other sections of the rules explicitly prohibited other specific materials (like vinyl siding).”, “alj_quote”: “Regarding the second basis for denial, the preponderance of the evidence shows that the Association acted outside its scope of authority because the ARs do not include a prohibition on painting tiles.”, “legal_basis”: “Scope of Authority”, “topic_tags”: [ “enforcement authority”, “architectural rules”, “unwritten rules” ] }, { “question”: “Who has to prove the case if I file a petition against my HOA?”, “short_answer”: “The homeowner (Petitioner) bears the burden of proof.”, “detailed_answer”: “In an administrative hearing regarding an HOA dispute, the homeowner alleging the violation is responsible for providing evidence that supports their claim by a preponderance of the evidence.”, “alj_quote”: “Mr. Archer bears the burden of proof to show that the alleged violation occurred. The standard of proof on all issues in this matter is that of a preponderance of the evidence.”, “legal_basis”: “A.A.C. R2-19-119”, “topic_tags”: [ “burden of proof”, “legal standards”, “hearing procedures” ] }, { “question”: “Can the HOA deny my project because they think it doesn’t ‘harmonize’ with the neighborhood?”, “short_answer”: “Only if they can prove it will ‘dominate or sharply contrast’ with the community.”, “detailed_answer”: “While rules often require harmony, this is interpreted to mean the project should not dominate or contrast sharply. If the evidence shows the project shares features (like roof pitch) with other homes, a denial based on lack of harmony may be unreasonable.”, “alj_quote”: “AR section 1.1 shows that improvements are to harmonize with the community, “rather than to dominate and/or contrast sharply with it.” … There was no substantial evidence adduced showing that Mr. Archer’s proposed addition will dominate or sharply contrast with the community.”, “legal_basis”: “Community Documents (AR Section 1.1)”, “topic_tags”: [ “aesthetics”, “harmony”, “architectural standards” ] }, { “question”: “Can I get my filing fee back if I win against the HOA?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, if the homeowner prevails, the HOA can be ordered to reimburse the filing fee.”, “detailed_answer”: “State law allows the prevailing party in an HOA dispute to recover the filing fee. In this case, because the ALJ ordered the HOA to approve the design, the HOA was also ordered to pay the petitioner’s $500 fee.”, “alj_quote”: “The Association also must pay to Mr. Archer his $500 filing fee. ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.02(A).”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 32-2199.02(A)”, “topic_tags”: [ “penalties”, “reimbursement”, “filing fees” ] }, { “question”: “Does hiring an architect to review my plans help my case?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, professional opinions stating your plans comply with the rules can be strong evidence.”, “detailed_answer”: “The homeowner presented an affidavit from a registered architect who reviewed the plans and rules, concluding the design was compliant. This evidence helped refute the HOA’s claims that the design lacked architectural elements.”, “alj_quote”: “Mr. Bragg concluded that the proposal was in compliance with the ARs. He noted that the proposed second floor matched the existing architecture and that the “lowered roof height is stepped below the existing second floor roof line….””, “legal_basis”: “Evidence Weight”, “topic_tags”: [ “expert testimony”, “evidence”, “architectural review” ] }, { “question”: “What if the HOA’s denial letter is confusing or lists reasons as just ‘advisory’?”, “short_answer”: “The judge will look at the actual reasons for denial, even if the HOA categorizes them poorly.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this case, the HOA listed some reasons for denial under a section labeled ‘advisory.’ The ALJ noted this was confusing but still analyzed whether those reasons were valid grounds for denial. The confusion did not prevent the judge from ruling the denial was unreasonable.”, “alj_quote”: “The Association’s reasons for denial are arguably not clear because it included two of its three reasons in a portion of the denial notice that was advisory only. Nevertheless, Mr. Archer presented sufficient evidence to show that none of the three reasons is reasonable.”, “legal_basis”: “Reasonableness Standard”, “topic_tags”: [ “denial notices”, “administrative review”, “confusion” ] } ] }






Blog Post – 21F-H2121040-REL


{ “case”: { “docket_no”: “21F-H2121040-REL”, “case_title”: “Marc Archer v. PMPE Community Association, Inc.”, “decision_date”: “2022-03-30”, “alj_name”: “Thomas Shedden”, “tribunal”: “OAH”, “agency”: “ADRE” }, “questions”: [ { “question”: “Can my HOA unreasonably refuse to approve my architectural plans?”, “short_answer”: “No, state law prohibits the unreasonable withholding of approval for construction projects.”, “detailed_answer”: “Arizona law explicitly states that an HOA cannot unreasonably withhold approval for architectural designs, plans, or amendments. If an HOA denies a request, the denial must be based on reasonable grounds supported by the community documents.”, “alj_quote”: “ARIZ. REV. STAT. section 33-1817(B)(3) provides that “Approval of a construction project’s architectural designs, plans and amendments shall not unreasonably be withheld.””, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1817(B)(3)”, “topic_tags”: [ “architectural review”, “homeowner rights”, “statutory compliance” ] }, { “question”: “Is the HOA required to give me a written reason if they deny my project?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, failing to provide a written reason for denial can be considered a violation of the statute.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this dispute, a prior decision established that the HOA violated the law by failing to provide the homeowner with a written explanation for denying preliminary approval. The homeowner must be informed of the specific basis for the decision.”, “alj_quote”: “In a Decision dated December 3, 2020, the ALJ in that matter determined that the Association had violated its CC&Rs and section 33-1817(B)(3) because it did not provide Mr. Archer with a written reason for denying preliminary approval.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1817(B)(3)”, “topic_tags”: [ “procedural requirements”, “due process”, “denial notices” ] }, { “question”: “Can the HOA deny my request based on a rule that isn’t written down?”, “short_answer”: “Generally no. If the architectural rules do not explicitly prohibit a specific material or method, the HOA may be acting outside its authority to deny it.”, “detailed_answer”: “The ALJ found that the HOA acted outside its authority by denying a request to paint roof tiles because the architectural rules (ARs) did not explicitly prohibit painting tiles, whereas other sections of the rules explicitly prohibited other specific materials (like vinyl siding).”, “alj_quote”: “Regarding the second basis for denial, the preponderance of the evidence shows that the Association acted outside its scope of authority because the ARs do not include a prohibition on painting tiles.”, “legal_basis”: “Scope of Authority”, “topic_tags”: [ “enforcement authority”, “architectural rules”, “unwritten rules” ] }, { “question”: “Who has to prove the case if I file a petition against my HOA?”, “short_answer”: “The homeowner (Petitioner) bears the burden of proof.”, “detailed_answer”: “In an administrative hearing regarding an HOA dispute, the homeowner alleging the violation is responsible for providing evidence that supports their claim by a preponderance of the evidence.”, “alj_quote”: “Mr. Archer bears the burden of proof to show that the alleged violation occurred. The standard of proof on all issues in this matter is that of a preponderance of the evidence.”, “legal_basis”: “A.A.C. R2-19-119”, “topic_tags”: [ “burden of proof”, “legal standards”, “hearing procedures” ] }, { “question”: “Can the HOA deny my project because they think it doesn’t ‘harmonize’ with the neighborhood?”, “short_answer”: “Only if they can prove it will ‘dominate or sharply contrast’ with the community.”, “detailed_answer”: “While rules often require harmony, this is interpreted to mean the project should not dominate or contrast sharply. If the evidence shows the project shares features (like roof pitch) with other homes, a denial based on lack of harmony may be unreasonable.”, “alj_quote”: “AR section 1.1 shows that improvements are to harmonize with the community, “rather than to dominate and/or contrast sharply with it.” … There was no substantial evidence adduced showing that Mr. Archer’s proposed addition will dominate or sharply contrast with the community.”, “legal_basis”: “Community Documents (AR Section 1.1)”, “topic_tags”: [ “aesthetics”, “harmony”, “architectural standards” ] }, { “question”: “Can I get my filing fee back if I win against the HOA?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, if the homeowner prevails, the HOA can be ordered to reimburse the filing fee.”, “detailed_answer”: “State law allows the prevailing party in an HOA dispute to recover the filing fee. In this case, because the ALJ ordered the HOA to approve the design, the HOA was also ordered to pay the petitioner’s $500 fee.”, “alj_quote”: “The Association also must pay to Mr. Archer his $500 filing fee. ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 32-2199.02(A).”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 32-2199.02(A)”, “topic_tags”: [ “penalties”, “reimbursement”, “filing fees” ] }, { “question”: “Does hiring an architect to review my plans help my case?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, professional opinions stating your plans comply with the rules can be strong evidence.”, “detailed_answer”: “The homeowner presented an affidavit from a registered architect who reviewed the plans and rules, concluding the design was compliant. This evidence helped refute the HOA’s claims that the design lacked architectural elements.”, “alj_quote”: “Mr. Bragg concluded that the proposal was in compliance with the ARs. He noted that the proposed second floor matched the existing architecture and that the “lowered roof height is stepped below the existing second floor roof line….””, “legal_basis”: “Evidence Weight”, “topic_tags”: [ “expert testimony”, “evidence”, “architectural review” ] }, { “question”: “What if the HOA’s denial letter is confusing or lists reasons as just ‘advisory’?”, “short_answer”: “The judge will look at the actual reasons for denial, even if the HOA categorizes them poorly.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this case, the HOA listed some reasons for denial under a section labeled ‘advisory.’ The ALJ noted this was confusing but still analyzed whether those reasons were valid grounds for denial. The confusion did not prevent the judge from ruling the denial was unreasonable.”, “alj_quote”: “The Association’s reasons for denial are arguably not clear because it included two of its three reasons in a portion of the denial notice that was advisory only. Nevertheless, Mr. Archer presented sufficient evidence to show that none of the three reasons is reasonable.”, “legal_basis”: “Reasonableness Standard”, “topic_tags”: [ “denial notices”, “administrative review”, “confusion” ] } ] }


Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Marc Archer (petitioner)
  • Greg Hancock (witness)
    Witness for Petitioner, works in building industry
  • Dr. Victor Zach (witness)
    Witness for Petitioner, lives across the street from Petitioner
  • Dan Earlie (witness)
    Witness for Petitioner, experienced in homebuilding and HOA boards
  • Thomas Bragg (architect/witness)
    Registered architect hired by Petitioner

Respondent Side

  • Nicholas C. S. Nogami (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen LLP
  • Keith Kauffman (board member/witness)
    PMPE Community Association, Inc.
    President and long-time board member of the Association
  • Gail Zigler (property manager/witness)
    Community manager for the Association
  • Mr. Sasser (committee member/neighbor)
    Mentioned as an opponent to the addition
  • Carlotta L. Turman (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen LLP

Neutral Parties

  • Thomas Shedden (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
  • Louis Dettorre (ADRE Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • Tammy L. Ikenberg (ALJ/Hearing Officer)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
    ALJ in prior related proceedings (19F-H1919063-REL, 20F-H2020063-REL)
  • Claire Miller (Preserve Park Supervisor)
    City Parks and Recreation

Other Participants

  • AHansen (unknown)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • vnunez (unknown)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • djones (unknown)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • DGardner (unknown)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • tandert (unknown)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • Miranda Alvarez (unknown)
    Clerical staff noted on transmission records (also Miranda A)
  • c. serrano (unknown)
    Clerical staff noted on transmission records
  • Dr. Smith (unknown)
    House used for a meeting location