The Right To Dry: The Next Attack On Association Regulations

It is commonplace to see a regulation or provision in the governing documents for associations that owner are not permitted to hang anything outside of their Unit, except for a properly displayed U.S. Flag, or some variation thereof.

However, the latest movement that has been gaining media attention nationally is the ban on clotheslines. Many associations prohibit clotheslines and hanging laundry out to dry outside. The “green” movement and the move to try to conserve energy has prompted the development of interest groups that are working to get laws passed that give residents the “right to dry”. One such organization is Project Laundry List.

Organizations of this type, which are growing, believe that cold water washing and air-drying of laundry can significantly help reduce power consumption and help reduce global warming. Support for these types of groups are meeting resistance from community associations and advocates on behalf of the associations. Many

residents have the mind set that they do not want to see their neighbors personal items and laundry when they look outside, walk or drive down the street.

Currently groups of this type are lobbying and working with legislators in Colorado, Hawaii, Maine and Vermont to try to pass right-to-dry laws. While the laws are not on the books yet, it is something to keep an eye on. If the idea gains support and popularity and if Project Laundry List or some similar entity comes to Ohio seeking to enact similar laws, it is something that community associations may have to deal with in the future.

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