Covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) are privately created rules that govern properties within a defined area, often a subdivision. In the absence of a homeowners association (HOA), enforcement typically falls to the individual property owners within the development. For example, if a CC&R dictates permissible fence heights, a neighbor impacted by a violation would be responsible for initiating enforcement actions.
Direct enforcement by property owners maintains the integrity of the community and property values. Historically, these agreements arose to ensure consistent development standards, preventing actions by one owner that could negatively affect others. This decentralized approach relies on the shared interest of all parties in upholding the established rules, promoting a stable and predictable environment.