Which document binds owners to covenants, restrictions, and creates a binding relationship between owners and the community association?

• A. Declaration, CC&Rs, or master deed
• B. Bylaws
• C. Articles of incorporation
• D. Public offering statement

Answer: (A)

In a community association, the binding covenants and the relationship between owners and the association come from the declaration of covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs), often called the master deed. This instrument is usually recorded against the property and runs with the land, so it binds current and future owners to specific restrictions, obligations, and assessments. It establishes what owners can and cannot do, how common elements are maintained, and the association’s authority to enforce rules and collect assessments.

Bylaws govern how the association operates—like board structure, meetings, and voting—and do not create the property covenants that restrict use. Articles of incorporation create the legal entity of the association, not the land-based restrictions. The public offering statement provides information to buyers and does not bind owners to covenants.