Missouri neighborhoods love their individuality, but a few favorite yard features might be in hot water soon. I’ve seen local rules tighten fast, catching homeowners off guard.
Some of these restrictions target things you’d never expect. Before you make your next backyard upgrade, it might pay to double-check what’s still allowed.
1. Clotheslines and Outdoor Drying Racks
Hanging your laundry outside might seem like a great way to save energy and money, but many Missouri neighborhoods have rules against visible clotheslines. HOAs often consider them unsightly or believe they lower property values.
Some communities allow retractable lines or those hidden behind fences. If you love line-drying your clothes, check your neighborhood rules first.
Missouri residents have fought back against these bans in some areas, arguing for their right to use eco-friendly drying methods.
2. Vegetable Gardens in Front Yards
Growing your own tomatoes and lettuce is rewarding, but putting that garden in your front yard could cause trouble in Missouri. Many HOAs restrict front yard gardens because they want uniform, traditional landscaping throughout the community.
Backyard gardens are usually fine, though some neighborhoods still have size limits. Front yard edible gardens have sparked debates about property rights and sustainability.
Before planting, Missouri homeowners should review their HOA covenants to avoid having to remove their hard work.
3. Recreational Vehicles and Boats
That camper or fishing boat might have to find a new home if your Missouri neighborhood has strict parking rules. Lots of HOAs ban visible RVs, boats, and trailers because they think these vehicles make the area look cluttered.
Some communities allow them if they’re stored behind fences or in garages. Others prohibit them entirely, even on your own property.
Storage facilities have become popular solutions for Missouri residents who want to keep their recreational vehicles while following neighborhood guidelines.
4. Chain-Link Fences
Chain-link fences are affordable and practical for keeping pets safe, but they’re often banned in Missouri subdivisions. HOAs typically prefer wood or vinyl fencing that looks more polished and matches the neighborhood aesthetic.
Height restrictions also apply, with most communities limiting fences to six feet or less. Some neighborhoods require specific colors or styles to maintain uniformity.
Missouri homeowners wanting to fence their yards should get HOA approval before purchasing materials to avoid costly mistakes.
5. Backyard Chicken Coops
Fresh eggs from your own chickens sound amazing, but many Missouri neighborhoods say no to backyard poultry. Concerns about noise, odors, and attracting predators lead HOAs to ban chickens entirely.
Some cities allow a limited number of hens without roosters, while others prohibit all livestock. Even where chickens are legal, HOA rules might still forbid them.
Missouri residents interested in keeping chickens should check both city ordinances and neighborhood covenants before building a coop.
6. Permanent Basketball Hoops
Shooting hoops in your driveway is classic fun, but permanent basketball goals face restrictions in some Missouri communities. HOAs worry about noise from bouncing balls and the visual impact on street appeal.
Portable hoops that can be moved or stored might be acceptable alternatives. Some neighborhoods allow permanent hoops only in backyards or require specific placement away from the street.
Before installing that dream basketball court, Missouri families should verify what their HOA permits to keep everyone happy.
7. Solar Panels on Roofs
Solar panels help reduce electricity bills and support renewable energy, yet some Missouri HOAs try to restrict or ban them. They argue that panels alter the neighborhood’s appearance and affect property values.
Missouri law actually protects homeowners’ rights to install solar in many cases. However, HOAs can still impose reasonable restrictions on placement and visibility.
Homeowners should understand both state solar rights laws and their specific HOA rules before investing in panels for their Missouri property.
8. Decorative Lawn Ornaments and Statues
Garden gnomes, flamingos, and statues add personality to your yard, but Missouri HOAs often limit these decorations. Rules typically restrict the number, size, or type of ornaments allowed to maintain a tidy appearance.
Holiday decorations usually get temporary exceptions, though time limits apply. Some neighborhoods ban certain themes or require approval for larger pieces.
Missouri homeowners who love expressing themselves through yard art should familiarize themselves with decoration policies to avoid removal notices from their HOA.
9. Artificial Turf and Non-Grass Lawns
Artificial turf saves water and eliminates mowing, making it appealing to busy Missouri homeowners. However, many HOAs ban synthetic grass because they prefer the traditional look of natural lawns.
Some communities allow artificial turf only in backyards or require high-quality products that closely resemble real grass. Rock gardens and xeriscaping face similar restrictions.
Before replacing your lawn, Missouri residents should confirm their HOA’s landscaping requirements to ensure compliance and avoid forced removal.