Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
You know an HOA has gone too far when even people who normally ignore HOA drama suddenly start paying attention.
This week, Colion Noir unloaded on a Florida homeowners association after residents in the Tradition community of Port St. Lucie received a letter announcing firearms were no longer allowed in common areas: including parks, trails, gazebos, and yes… the splash pad.
According to Noir’s breakdown, residents weren’t exactly thrilled to find out their carry rights had been quietly “updated” through a neighborhood letter instead of an actual public discussion.
“They slid a right out from under you in an envelope,” Noir said. That pretty much sums up why the story exploded online.
Noir’s biggest point wasn’t really about whether the HOA technically has legal authority. In fact, he admitted the situation is murkier than many gun owners probably want to hear. Because HOA common areas are technically private property, the Second Amendment restrictions that apply to government entities don’t always apply the same way to private associations.
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That’s the uncomfortable part. But Noir argued the bigger issue is the mindset behind it all.
“You don’t need a dictator,” he joked. “You just need a [bleep] HOA.”
Honestly? Somewhere deep down, every homeowner reading that probably nodded a little.
Things escalated fast after state attorney general James Uthmeier publicly warned the HOA the policy could violate Florida law and threatened legal action if enforcement continued.
Meanwhile, local police reportedly clarified they enforce state law, not HOA policy letters.
Noir says the entire controversy should serve as a warning to gun owners who assume “friendly” states are permanently safe territory.
“This did happen here. In Florida,” Noir said. “Reputation doesn’t protect the right. Vigilance does.”
Whether you agree or not, watching a homeowners’ association attempt to regulate concealed carry with the same energy they use to fight over mailbox colors is objectively one of the most 2026 stories imaginable.
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is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
Experience:
– Licensed Bowhunter, Hunter, and Trapper – Experienced in ethical hunting and wildlife conservation.
– Concealed Carry Permit Holder (NYS & AZ) – Trained and licensed to carry in multiple states.
– 2A Journalist – Covering firearms legislation, Second Amendment issues, and gun rights for over a decade.
– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Certified to provide emergency medical care in the field.
– Field-Tested Gear Reviewer – Hands-on experience with firearms, optics, and hunting tech.