Driverless vehicles create a different set of challenges for gated communities that do not have a guard stationed at the entrance.
An autonomous vehicle may be unable to operate a call box, enter a keypad code, activate a telephone-entry system, use a transponder, or otherwise satisfy an access procedure originally designed for a human driver.
This policy establishes a framework specifically for those communities.
Under the policy, residents who request autonomous vehicles are responsible for arranging access. If a vehicle cannot independently satisfy the Community’s access requirements, the resident may need to remotely authorize entry, meet the vehicle at the gate, arrange for an approved temporary access credential, or meet the vehicle outside the Community.
The policy addresses:
- Association-approved autonomous vehicle access methods
- Remote gate opening
- Mobile-app authorization
- Temporary digital credentials and guest codes
- License-plate recognition
- Electronic transponders
- Restrictions on permanent credentials
- Prohibition against sharing master gate codes
- Vehicles that cannot enter
- Vehicles stopped or disabled at the gate
- Pickup and drop-off rules
- Resident preparedness
- Designated autonomous vehicle pickup areas
- Autonomous deliveries
- Physical interference with vehicles
- Collision and property damage
- Emergency access
- Limits on Association responsibility
- Reasonable accommodation
- Changes in vehicle and access-control technology
The policy makes clear that an Association is not required to provide an autonomous vehicle company, transportation provider, fleet operator, or delivery company with a master gate code, permanent access code, unrestricted electronic access, or similar generalized credential.
It also gives the Association flexibility to require access to be authorized on a trip-by-trip, vehicle-by-vehicle, or temporary basis.
Ideal For: Gated HOAs without guards, condominium developments with automated gates, private communities using call boxes or app-based entry systems, boards, managers, and access-control committees.
