Please note that calls, emails and texts to Chartwood Manor will not be returned until after July 7, 2026.
While CMHA is governed at the immediate, local level by our CC&Rs, Bylaws and Board Adopted Policies, there are federal and state laws which take precedence over these regulations and to which the HOA must adhere. The following is a brief overview of these laws:
Federal law always sits at the top of the HOA governance hierarchy. Specific laws relating to HOA management are few - but critical - and include:
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
The Fair Housing Act
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
Freedom to Display the American Flag
Over-the-Air Reception Devices Rule
The United States Bankruptcy Code
The Service Members Civil Relief Act
Pennsylvania’s Uniform Condominium Act took effect in 1980. It offers specific provisions as to the management of homeowners associations created during the time period in which Chartwood Manor’s HOA was formed. Also in the chain of governance are the 1996 Uniform Planned Communities Act as well as laws regulating nonprofit corporations.
Next in line of precedence would be the HOA’s Articles of Incorporation. CMHA is considered a non-profit corporation.
Township Codes and Ordinances
Residents of Chartwood Manor must abide by all local ordinances including (but not limited to) those regarding building permits, homeowners' obligations to clear sidewalks from snow and ice, regulations regarding pet ownership, and many others. Membership in a homeowners' association in no way exempts township homeowners from following these codes and ordinances. The complete Swatara Township Code of Ordinances can be found here.
This is the document that enumerates the regulations and restrictions imposed by the "Declarant" (the original owners of the land upon which Chartwood Manor was developed.) Although they discuss other topics such as Assessments, for the most part the CC&Rs describe what you can and cannot do on the lot you've purchased. View the CC&Rs here.
The purpose of the Bylaws is to prescribe and enforce the manner in which the HOA can and must operate. Bylaws offer specific guidance with regards to Association meetings, architectural approval, board matters, and other general operating issues. The Bylaws can be read here.
The ACC is appointed by CMHA’s board of directors. It reviews homeowners’ requests concerning exterior changes, replacements and maintenance. The ACC researches and analyzes these homeowners’ requests using the provisions set forth in the CC&Rs and Bylaws. The ACC then makes recommendations on whether these requests should be approved by the full board. To submit your project for consideration and/or approval, please use this form.
The CMHA board of directors and its officers are authorized, by both Pennsylvania Consolidated Statues and CMHA Bylaws, to implement policies clarifying rules and regulations contained in the HOA Bylaws and CC&Rs. These adopted policies carry equal weight to other governing documents. To review these policies, click here.