Buying or selling in Forest Hills and unsure whether FHNA is the same as an HOA? You are not alone. Neighborhood associations and property owners’ associations work very differently in Texas, and those differences can affect what you owe, what you can change, and how issues get handled. In this guide, you’ll learn the plain-English differences, how they show up in Forest Hills, and exactly how to confirm what applies to a specific address. Let’s dive in.
FHNA vs. HOA: the plain-English difference
What FHNA does
FHNA is a voluntary neighborhood association that focuses on community events, beautification, communication, and advocacy. Membership and dues are optional, and FHNA materials note it does not impose property-use restrictions or mandatory enforcement. You can read FHNA’s overview on the Forest Hills Neighborhood Association site.
What an HOA/POA can do in Texas
A homeowners or property owners’ association in Texas operates under recorded documents that can require mandatory membership and assessments. With the right recorded authority, a POA may levy fines, record assessment liens, and in limited cases pursue foreclosure, and it must follow rules in the Texas Property Code Chapter 209. Many POAs must also record a management certificate in county records and file it with the state database at hoa.texas.gov.
How this plays out in Forest Hills
In the broader Forest Hills area near White Rock Lake, FHNA functions as a voluntary association, not a mandatory HOA. That means FHNA organizes community life and communication, but it does not collect mandatory dues or enforce property-use rules.
Some nearby or smaller enclaves do operate under separate HOAs. For example, The Estates at Forest Hills uses a homeowners association with recorded covenants and mandatory dues. See the community documents listed on The Estates at Forest Hills HOA page.
City zoning and overlays also apply regardless of association status. For instance, neighborhood-led initiatives like a Neighborhood Forest Overlay are municipal rules and separate from any private covenants. FHNA references these efforts on its Neighborhood Forest Overlay page.
What to check for any Forest Hills address
Use this quick checklist before you make an offer or list your home:
- Search the state HOA database
- Look for a management certificate by association name or county in the TREC/hoa.texas.gov database. If one exists, you can see the declaration details and association contact info.
- Check Dallas County property records
- Search recorded declarations, CC&Rs, plats, and any liens with the Dallas County Clerk Recording Division. Your title company can also pull these.
- Ask the seller for disclosures and documents
- Request any CC&Rs, bylaws, rules, budgets, meeting minutes, and contact details. If there is a POA, expect a resale or transfer certificate during the title process.
- Confirm dues type and enforcement
- Voluntary dues typically mean no fines, liens, or mandatory assessments. If documents show mandatory membership or assessments, you are likely dealing with a POA subject to Chapter 209.
- Look for lien and foreclosure language
- Associations that can file assessment liens or pursue foreclosure must have that authority in recorded documents and follow strict notice steps outlined in Section 209.0094. Ask your title company to flag any existing association liens.
- Review procedures if there is an HOA
- For POAs, Chapter 209 sets rules for records, notices, and hearings. Understand architectural approvals, fine schedules, and dispute processes before closing.
- Use your title company and, if needed, a real estate attorney
- They can confirm what is recorded against the property and interpret mixed situations where a neighborhood includes both voluntary and mandatory areas.
- Note city rules that always apply
- Zoning, setbacks, and overlays are enforced by the City of Dallas. Plan remodels or new construction with both city requirements and any private covenants in mind.
Simple scenarios you might encounter
- FHNA only, no POA: You may choose to join FHNA, enjoy events and updates, and follow City of Dallas rules. There are no mandatory association dues or fines if nothing is recorded against your lot.
- Property in a POA: Expect mandatory assessments, recorded governing documents, and defined enforcement procedures. Budget for dues and understand architectural approvals before you renovate.
- Mixed area: The neighborhood name might be the same, but governance can differ street to street. Always verify the specific lot, not just the general area.
Key takeaways
- FHNA is voluntary and does not impose mandatory dues or property-use enforcement. See FHNA’s overview here.
- Some Forest Hills properties are in HOAs with recorded covenants and mandatory dues, such as The Estates at Forest Hills.
- Do your homework on the exact address using the state HOA database, county records, seller disclosures, and your title company.
- If a POA applies, Chapter 209 rules matter for notices, records, and any potential liens or enforcement.
If you want local, practical help navigating FHNA vs. HOA questions around White Rock and East Dallas, reach out to Brianna East for calm, step-by-step guidance.
FAQs
Is FHNA the same as an HOA?
- No. FHNA is a voluntary neighborhood association focused on community life, not a mandatory HOA with enforcement powers. See the FHNA overview.
How do I check if a property is in an HOA?
- Search the state management certificate database by county or association name at hoa.texas.gov, and review the title commitment and county records.
Can FHNA fine me or place a lien on my home?
- No. A voluntary association without recorded authority cannot levy enforceable fines or assessment liens; those powers belong to POAs with recorded documents and required notices.
Do city zoning and overlays still apply if there is no HOA?
- Yes. City of Dallas rules, including zoning, setbacks, and any overlays, apply to every property regardless of association status.
