John Hawley
Aug 2, 2025
A Florida woman was jailed for seven days after ignoring escalating HOA violations over issues like dry grass and mailbox mildew, highlighting how quickly disputes can spiral when homeowners don’t comply. Her story is a powerful reminder that even “petty” HOA rules carry legal weight.
Living in a Florida HOA community comes with many perks — manicured landscapes, shared amenities, and neighborhood consistency. But it also comes with rules. And as one Tampa homeowner recently learned, ignoring those rules — no matter how “petty” they may seem — can land you in serious trouble.
The Case of Irena Green: A Harsh Lesson in Escalation
Irena Green, a resident of Creek View in Hillsborough County, never imagined that a dispute over dry grass could land her behind bars. But after multiple violation notices from her HOA — from turf issues to a dented garage door, mildew on her mailbox, and a parked cargo van — things quickly spiraled.
Despite representing herself in court and claiming the violations were minor and widespread in the neighborhood, Green was ultimately held in contempt of court after missing a hearing. The result: she spent seven nights in jail.
While her story may seem extreme, it highlights a crucial reality for millions of Florida homeowners — HOA enforcement is not optional, and court orders must be taken seriously.
Florida: Ground Zero for HOA Living
With nearly 45% of all Florida homes under HOA governance, the Sunshine State leads the nation in homeowners living under association rules. These rules are designed to protect property values, maintain community standards, and ensure fairness. But they can also come with strict enforcement mechanisms that escalate fast if left unchecked.
What Homeowners Can Learn from This Case
HOA Rules Are Legally Binding
When you buy into an HOA community, you're entering a contract — one that gives your association the power to enforce rules and pursue legal action for noncompliance. That means ignoring violation notices can lead to court appearances, fines, liens, and, in rare cases, jail time.
No Violation Is “Too Small”
Green's case involved issues many might overlook — like a dented garage or mailbox mildew. But HOAs can (and do) cite homeowners for minor infractions, especially if they go unresolved. The best way to protect yourself is to take every notice seriously and respond promptly.
Court Orders Carry Serious Weight
Green’s downfall wasn’t just about lawn care — it was about missing a court-ordered deadline. Regardless of whether she received the notice, the judge viewed her absence as contempt. When the courts get involved, the stakes change. Always seek legal help when a dispute escalates.
Communication and Documentation Matter
Green claimed she tried to reach the courthouse and made efforts to resolve the issues. But without proper documentation and legal representation, those efforts didn’t carry much weight in court. Keeping detailed records and hiring an attorney early can make a huge difference.
Know Your HOA and Stay Proactive
Not all HOAs operate the same. Review your community’s bylaws and enforcement policies, attend meetings, and get involved when possible. If you feel enforcement is inconsistent or unfair, document your concerns and seek professional advice before things escalate.
A Word to the Wise
Irena Green’s story is a cautionary tale about what can happen when minor HOA disputes are left unresolved. Whether or not you believe your HOA is acting fairly, the legal system can — and will — back them up if they follow proper procedures.
The bottom line? Even if an HOA request seems petty, it’s not worth the risk of ignoring it. Address violations promptly, know your rights, and when in doubt, consult an attorney. In Florida’s HOA landscape, a little prevention goes a long way — and can save you from turning a dry patch of grass into a legal quagmire.
