Required Removal of Personal Items from Common Hallways

The Board of Directors is writing to address an important safety and compliance matter that now requires immediate action. The City of San Diego Fire Marshal has issued a formal complaint regarding personal items stored in our common hallways, noting that these items are obstructing designated fire exits. This is a serious life-safety concern and places the Association at risk.

In addition to the Fire Marshal’s directive, several sections of our CC&Rs clearly prohibit storing personal belongings in the common areas, including Sections:
7.9 – Abandoned Personal Property
7.13 – Use of Common Area
7.6 – Personal Property Restrictions

We recognize that many homeowners have used the hallways for both temporary storage and decorative items, and we acknowledge that the Association has not consistently enforced these provisions in the past. However, given the Fire Marshal’s findings and the clear safety implications, the Board must now enforce these rules without exception.

Accordingly, residents may not place, store, or maintain any personal property within common area hallways, breezeways, exit pathways, stairways, or areas adjacent to exit doors. Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:
• Door mats
• Tables, chairs, benches, and other furniture
• Plant stands, potted plants, and decorative items
• Storage containers, shelving, and cabinets
• Bicycles, scooters, and recreational equipment
• Boxes, personal belongings, and miscellaneous stored items

In order to comply with the Fire Marshall, all personal items must be removed from the hallways no later than Friday, September 25, 2026.

We understand this may be an inconvenience for some residents, and we appreciate your coöperation as we take necessary steps to protect the safety of all occupants and comply with both our governing documents and fire-safety regulations.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.