Waterfront Cottage Owner Bought a Seaplane for Fun, Only To Find Himself in an Unforeseen Battle with an HOA He’s Not Even a Member of.

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In the idyllic serenity of his inherited waterfront cottage, the Original Poster (OP) savors a quiet life outside the local Homeowners Association (HOA) until the installation of safety buoys for his seaplane incites a demanding backlash from the HOA. A vehement refusal from OP fuels a battle over property rights and privacy, climaxing in a bitter legal dispute. Yet, as tensions flare and secrets unravel, the finale of this riveting clash is anything but predictable.

The Legacy

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OP inherited a charming, old waterfront cottage from his late grandfather three years ago, which also includes an owned portion of the actual lake. A secluded oasis that is one of the oldest homes in the area and sits outside the control of the local Homeowners Association (HOA).

A Tranquil Atmosphere

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The cottage is accompanied by a small grass yard and a personal beach on the lake, offering a tranquil atmosphere to OP. The property is idyllic and quaint, the sort of location a Hallmark movie would be filled at.

The Aviator’s Abode

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OP, fortunate enough to have a private pilot’s license, owns a Piper Super Cub on floats. A relic of his adventures, the plane rests either tied to his dock or safely secured on the beach during harsh weather.

The Safety Measures

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A month ago, OP decided to introduce new enhancements to his property – two lines of buoys at the edge of his property, donning custom-made signs warning about prop wash. These buoys and signs serve as a protective barrier against boaters and kayakers.

Protecting Property

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OP is concerned that other vessels could get too close during takeoff. The addition creates a 100 X 300ft safety rectangle, ensuring 100ft from each wing of the seaplane. OP believes this is a sufficient precaution to protect himself and others.

The Observer’s Intrusion

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Intrusion from spectators starts causing discomfort to OP as boaters and kayakers begin coming too close while watching him fly off. While he generally didn’t mind spectators, the rising proximity raised concerns about safety. These incidents prompted OP’s decision to install the buoys and safety signs.

The Displeased Association

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Following the new additions, OP received a letter from the HOA demanding that he moves his seaplane to a local seaplane base and remove his buoys and signs. The demands presented an unexpected obstacle for OP, threatening his peaceful life by the lakeside. The incident initiated a conflict between OP and the HOA.

The Steadfast Stand

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In response, OP pens a letter to the HOA, explaining his need for the buoys and firmly stating his intention not to alter anything. The assertive reply reflects OP’s unwavering stand on his property rights. However, this doesn’t sit well with the HOA, sparking tensions.

The Agitated Visitor

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Only two days after OP’s response, he receives a visit from an irate member of the HOA. Upon confronting her, OP reiterates his stance and warns of legal consequences if the HOA encroaches on his property again. This exchange further heightens the animosity between OP and the association.

The Fiery Farewell

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Before leaving, the HOA member unleashes a tirade of verbal insults at OP. Her fiery parting words add fuel to the already escalating conflict. The situation marks the beginning of a major clash between OP and the HOA.

The Legal Battle

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The conflict escalates into a legal battle as the HOA decides to challenge OP’s right to use his property as he wishes. The tranquility of his lakeside retreat is further disrupted by the looming court dates and legal proceedings. OP must now prepare to defend his rights in court, throwing him into uncharted territory.

The Solidarity of Spectators

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Witnessing the ongoing argument, the usual boaters and kayakers start rallying in support of OP. They appreciate the safety measures OP has implemented and the spectacle of his takeoffs. Their solidarity adds another dimension to the story, showcasing the strength of community support against overbearing authority.

A Surprising Revelation

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During the legal proceedings, it was revealed that the HOA had previously tried and failed to acquire OP’s grandfather’s property. The revelation adds a new layer to the conflict, suggesting a possible ulterior motive behind the HOA’s persistence.

The Legal Victory

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OP manages to win the lawsuit, securing his right to maintain his property as he wishes. The victory signifies a triumph of individual rights over collective authority, ending the legal battle but leaving open the question of how OP’s relationship with the HOA will evolve in the future.

Was The Man’s Behavior Appropriate?

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OP posts his story online for feedback. The readers in the forum had a lot of mixed views on the matter. Here are some of their responses:

Forum Responds

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One reader said, “Get cameras and a lawyer on retainer. You’re likely in for an annoying ride with the HOA, even though you’re within your rights.”

Another Commenter Thinks

Another responder wrote, “I would hire an attorney and stop replying to them yourself. Have the attorney send a letter to the HOA to kindly stop harassing you when you are not part of their HOA, and that any harassment would be reported to the authorities.”

A Third View on The Story

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A different person stated, “I understand the benefits of an HOA and why some people choose to be in them, but they attract control freaks. Imagine the audacity of demanding someone change how they use their own property.”

A Final Perspective on the Matter

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Another reader commented, “Go to your city or state and make sure you are 100% within all laws and regulations with regards to your plane and buoys. Do your best to get that in writing if possible.”