Most Associations in Georgia are mandatory Associations and you automatically become a member through the purchase of your home. Each resident is legally bound to follow the guidelines in the protective covenants. Any exterior modification to a home or lot must be requested and approved before beginning a project. Unless the Association provides lawn maintenance, each owner/resident is required to routinely maintain the entire lot by mowing, edging and weeding, and placing pinestraw or mulch.   Trash cans should be stored out of public view, except on collection day. Pets should be leashed when off your property and pet waste quickly and neatly removed. The covenants benefit each resident by helping to keep the community looking beautiful and ensuring property values remain high.