A voluntary homeowners' association means that owners do not have to be a member of the association. These associations do not have any authority to force lot owners to do anything. A mandatory homeowners' association means that owners automatically belong to the association and must pay dues. These associations have the authority to enforce rules and regulations and may be able to place liens against an owner's property if the owner is not paying dues. This type of association has members who are renters in multi-unit complexes.
Members address any relevant neighborhood issues.