How to Censor Residents Advertising Private Events in Community

Question

As a landlord of a 100+ apartment community, we've been approached by residents who wish to post on the community board private events they want to host in their own apartment. This may seem innocent and fun on the surface; however, what guidelines should we put in place to censor what get posts and what doesn't without seeming discriminatory?

Bettina F. · Answer

Good question!  As you may or may not be aware, there was an incident in 2015 where the police were called to break up an out-of control teenage party at a private community pool in Texas.  The partiers were not residents, it turned out one adult tenant had been marketing "pool parties" to non-residents at $5 a head.

We have a "no parties" clause in our rental agreement, and also do not allow residents to run businesses on the property.  The "no parties" clause prohibits parties that spill out into the common areas and/or cause a disturbance for other guests.  I do not police small quiet get togethers in my resident's apartments.

I would not allow residents to post any advertisement for private parties on the community billboard.  If they truly are having a not-for profit get together (like a baby shower) guests will be invited via private means.  It sounds like they are trying to drum up business for candle/Tupperware/essential oil/Mary Kay parties, (the list is endless) or religious activities where all might not be welcome.   I would keep the Community Bulletin board for community wide announcements -- like the pool hours or the parking lot is being resurfaced on this day.