Property Ownership

What is a 'deed restriction' (covenant) and how does it limit a Pennsylvania property owner's rights?

AA government restriction on land use imposed through zoning
BA private limitation on property use recorded in the deed and running with the land, binding all future owners✓ Correct
CA lender requirement restricting the sale of mortgaged property
DA HOA rule that applies only to the current owner, not future buyers

Explanation

A deed restriction (restrictive covenant) is a private limitation placed in the deed that runs with the land and binds all future owners. Examples: minimum home size, architectural standards, prohibition on commercial use, pet restrictions. Unlike zoning (public law), deed restrictions are private and enforced by adjacent property owners or HOAs, not the government. Pennsylvania courts enforce deed restrictions unless they violate public policy (discriminatory covenants are unenforceable under the Fair Housing Act).

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