Homeowner Association Election Law Updates in Texas

A quick note before we begin: This overview is for informational purposes and isn't a substitute for legal advice. Since every HOA's situation is unique and depends on specific governing documents, we always encourage consultation with a legal professional to ensure compliance with your specific bylaws and any applicable legal requirements.

When the Texas legislative session ended in June, a number of updates to HOA regulations were made law. The majority of these updates will go into effect September 1st, 2025. The changes range from HOA election voting options to lawn watering fines to security device regulation.

Texas HOA Election Law Updates (Effective Sep 1st, 2025)

 Senate Bill 711

The first bill contains the most provisions. They are as follows:

• Condos with sixty or more units or condos managed by a management company must maintain a website on which they post their governing documents.
• All condo management certificates must contain new information specified by the law, including contact information for the person managing the association, the above-mentioned website where governing documents are posted, and the amount of fees charged for the transfer of the unit.
• Management certificates must be filed with the Texas Real Estate Commission within seven days after being recorded in county filings. If the certificate isn’t filed correctly or within the timeframe, the association can’t charge a property owner for certain attorney fees or charge a property owner interest on unpaid assessments.
• The maximum amount a condo association may now charge for a resale certificate is now $375.
• HOAs cannot stop property owners from adding security devices to their property, including perimeter fences, except under certain circumstances. Fences may not block sidewalks or drainage spaces; driveway gates must be set back at least ten feet from the road; fences in front yards may be prohibited by HOA bylaws. Homeowners who have built fences before September 1st, 2025 are exempt from these regulations.
• HOAs with more than forty lots must notify property owners at least ten days before appointing or electing architectural committee members. This notice can be mailed, posted in the neighborhood, displayed on the HOA website, or emailed. The notice must also explain avenues through which members can express interest in serving on the committee.

Senate Bill 2629

This law expands electronic voting options for HOAs. Condo associations may now allow electronic voting so long as they take measures to verify voter identities and keep records. Subdivision HOAs must now allow members to vote by proxy, absentee ballot, or electronically.

House Bill 431

This law expands the definition of solar energy devices to include roof tiles, not just solar panels. It also states that HOAs cannot ban the installation of these devices.

House Bill 621

This law makes it so HOAs cannot block owners or residents from inviting elected officials or political candidates to speak in common areas. HOAs may still apply rules used for other gatherings, however, such as charging a rental fee, limiting occupancy, specifying which areas can be used, and requiring reservations.

House Bill 517

This law states that HOAs cannot fine homeowners for the state of their lawns if a government or utility company has imposed mandatory water restrictions. This protection lasts until sixty days after the restriction is lifted.

Making Sense of the Changes

HOAs can have a challenging time holding regular meetings and creating a thriving community while holding regular votes that adhere to local and federal laws. Specialists like ElectionBuddy can help. With our expertise in HOA elections and Texas homeowner rules, we can help HOAs understand changing laws and take advantage of newly expanded electronic voting regulations!

Please remember that every HOA is governed by its unique bylaws, in addition to state law, so we always recommend consulting with a legal professional for official guidance.