If you’ve ever had a run-in with a Homeowners Association (HOA), you know that while they may have been created to keep neighborhoods looking tidy, they can often feel like an unnecessary headache.
Whether it’s restricting your landscaping or telling you what color you can paint your house, HOAs can sometimes overstep. But there’s a new bill in Texas that could be a win for those who love their backyard chickens, even if your HOA isn’t on board.
What is HB 2013?
House Bill 2013 (HB 2013) is a new piece of legislation that aims to take on those pesky HOAs that try to ban chickens in backyards. The bill is good news for chicken lovers who live in HOA-governed neighborhoods that don’t allow poultry. If HB 2013 becomes law, it would defend your right to keep chickens as long as there is no city ordinance against it.
The bill essentially states that if your city does not have an ordinance prohibiting chickens, then your HOA can’t step in and stop you from raising them. It’s a victory for those who believe in their right to have chickens for fresh eggs and some backyard fun.
How Does HB 2013 Protect Homeowners?
Currently, in many HOA communities, there are blanket bans on backyard chickens, regardless of local city laws. This new bill would change that, allowing homeowners to keep chickens in areas where local ordinances allow for poultry, even if the HOA says no.
In short, if your city permits chickens, your HOA wouldn’t be able to stop you from having them. This could be a game-changer for homeowners who feel like their rights are being restricted by HOA rules that go beyond the basic need for community upkeep.
What’s Next for HB 2013?
The good news for chicken enthusiasts is that the bill has already passed the Texas House with overwhelming support and is now moving on to the Texas Senate. If it continues its successful path, this could be a big step forward for homeowners who want to raise chickens in their backyard without worrying about HOA interference.
Why This Bill Matters
If you’ve ever felt like your HOA rules were more about control than community, HB 2013 is a step toward balancing the scales. For many, raising chickens is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to produce fresh, local eggs, teach kids about animals, and reduce waste by composting chicken manure.
The bill could also set a precedent for future legislation that limits HOA power in other areas, giving homeowners more control over their own property while still maintaining a sense of community.