As part of its quarterly efforts to keep Anniston thriving, the Anniston Community Association has released its Summer 2025 homeowner update—a warm yet thorough guide to community expectations, best practices, and helpful reminders for residents. The letter, sent by the Anniston Community Manager Eddie Padilla, CMCA, reflects the Association’s continued commitment to keeping Anniston a clean, vibrant, and welcoming place to live.

To help everyone stay informed and feel confident about what’s expected, we’ve summarized the key points from this season’s update below. From lawn care tips to pet policies and everything in between, here’s what you need to know to keep Anniston looking and feeling like home.

Architectural Review Authority (ARA): Submit Before You Modify

Before making any exterior changes to your home—like painting, adding fencing, installing cameras, or planting landscaping—you must receive written approval from the ARA. Homeowners can find the submission form in the portal, and while the ARA has up to 60 days to respond, a rush option (within 7 business days) is available.

Keep It Neat: Outdoor Items and Curb Appeal

Part of what makes Anniston such a beautiful place to live is the care each homeowner takes in maintaining their property. From shed placement to basketball goals and trash bins, a few simple habits can go a long way in keeping your streets tidy and inviting. Here’s a quick refresher on how to keep outdoor items properly stored and aligned with community standards.

Storage Sheds Must Stay Hidden

Sheds and outbuildings may not be visible from public areas, particularly if your home is near a main road or lake. If a shed is visible, you may be asked to relocate or remove it to meet community guidelines.

Trash & Recycle Bins: Out of Sight After Collection

All bins should be stored inside your garage or behind fencing once pickup is complete. Leaving bins out creates unsightly views and odors. If you wish to install a screen to conceal your bins, ARA approval is required.

Basketball Goals: Use and Store Respectfully

While summer often means more outdoor play, portable basketball goals must be stored out of view when not in use. This helps preserve curb appeal and keeps sidewalks clear.

Friendly Reminders for Outdoor Courtesy and Safety

Anniston is a place where neighbors look out for one another—and that includes how we share our outdoor spaces. Whether it’s walking the dog or keeping our common areas safe and tidy, a few thoughtful actions go a long way in protecting the peace and beauty of our neighborhood. Here are some helpful reminders to keep in mind as you enjoy the great outdoors close to home.

Leash and Pick Up: Pet Etiquette in Anniston

All dogs must be leashed at all times when outside the home or fenced yard, and pet waste must be picked up immediately—including in neighbors’ yards and common areas. These rules are required by both the Association and. Harris County leash laws.

No Motorized Recreational Vehicles in Common Areas

ATVs, dirt bikes, and four-wheelers are prohibited from use in Anniston’s common areas. These vehicles cause damage to lawns and shared spaces, and repair costs affect all residents.

Water Wisely, Grow Beautifully

With all the recent rain, many lawns in Anniston are holding a bit more water than they need—and that can make it tricky for the landscaping crew to do their job without damaging your turf. Overwatering not only causes soggy soil and ruts, but it can also prevent your grass from getting the deep roots it needs to thrive.

To help keep your yard healthy and easy to maintain, here are a few gentle watering tips recommended by the Association:

• Water early in the morning, ideally around 5:00 AM

• Limit watering to 10 minutes per cycle

• If your lawn still looks thirsty, increase how often you water—not how long

These small adjustments make a big difference in keeping your front yard green and beautiful—while also supporting the team that helps keep our neighborhood looking its best

Understanding the Violation Process: A Fair and Friendly Approach

Sometimes, things slip through the cracks—and that’s okay! The Anniston Community Association is here to help everyone stay on track with our shared community standards in a fair and respectful way.

If something on your property needs attention, here’s how the process works:

• Courtesy Notice – Think of this as a gentle heads-up. You’ll receive a friendly reminder about the issue and have time to correct it.

• Final Notice – If the issue isn’t resolved, a second notice will be sent, offering another opportunity to take action.

• Referral to the Association Attorney – If the problem continues, the matter may be turned over for legal follow-up, though this is always a last resort.

The goal is never to penalize, but to partner with residents in keeping Anniston looking its best. This step-by-step approach gives everyone a chance to resolve issues quickly, easily, and with care.

Your Anniston Adventure Starts Here

If you're new to the neighborhood—or just need a refresher—understanding how the Anniston Community Association works can help you make the most of living here. The “Your Association Adventure Begins!” guide shared in the latest update offers a great snapshot of what it means to be part of a deed-restricted community like ours.

Here are some key takeaways:

• Assessments: These community dues are essential—they help fund the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, amenities, and more. Be sure to pay on time to keep everything running smoothly.

• Deed Restrictions: These are the rules that help preserve home values and neighborhood charm. By following them, you're contributing to the overall appeal and harmony of Anniston.

Who Does What?

• The Association Board is made up of elected homeowner volunteers who help shape the community's future.

• KRJ Management handles day-to-day operations, including inspections, communications, and assistance with homeowner questions.

• The Developer still plays a role in the early phases of the community’s growth and transition.

Want to be more involved? You can:

• Attend Board and Annual Meetings

• Volunteer for a committee

• Help out at social events

• Stay informed through your curated My Neigborhood News newsletter and the homeowner portal

 Most importantly—being a kind and considerate neighbor goes a long way. When we all take pride in our homes and follow the community guidelines, it creates a more enjoyable, welcoming place for everyone to live.

For questions or assistance, residents can contact KRJ Management at 713-600-4000 or email smile@krjcares.com. 

These reminders are part of Anniston’s shared commitment to neighborhood pride—and every homeowner plays a part in that success. Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for continuous updates and community news.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.