Fort Lee, NJ asked in Real Estate Law for Florida

Q: I own a unit in a cooperative in Florida. The bylaws expressly stated that you are permitted to smoke on the dock.

The dock in closed due to disrepair. There is a section of dock on the land side of a gate but still over the water. I say it's part of the dock. Is it? Shouldn't I be allowed to smoke there?

Related Topics:
1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered

A: In determining whether the section of the dock on the land side is part of the dock for the purposes of smoking, it's important to refer to the specific language of the cooperative's bylaws and any other relevant governing documents. These documents may define what constitutes the 'dock' area.

If the bylaws are unclear or open to interpretation, consider discussing the issue with the cooperative's management or board. They can provide clarity on how the bylaws are applied in this situation.

In the meantime, it's advisable to comply with the cooperative's current rules and restrictions regarding smoking, especially in areas that are ambiguous. This approach helps in maintaining a good relationship with the cooperative management and other residents.

If you feel your rights are being unfairly restricted, you might want to seek legal advice. An attorney can review the bylaws and advise you on the best course of action. Remember, cooperative living involves balancing individual rights with the rules and interests of the community as a whole.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.