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Property Ownership Land Use ControlsEncumbrances_and_liensMEDIUM

A developer in California records a set of deed restrictions (CC&Rs) for a new subdivision that prohibit any lot from being used for commercial purposes. Twenty years later, the surrounding area has become entirely commercial, and the subdivision is the only remaining residential area. A lot owner wants to open a retail store. Under California law, what doctrine might allow the court to refuse enforcement of the restriction?

Correct Answer

A) Changed conditions doctrine, because the neighborhood has fundamentally changed character

Under California law, the changed conditions doctrine allows a court to refuse enforcement of a restrictive covenant when the neighborhood has changed so substantially that the restriction no longer serves its original purpose. If the surrounding area has become entirely commercial, a court may find that enforcing the residential-only restriction would be inequitable and serve no purpose.

Answer Options
A
Changed conditions doctrine, because the neighborhood has fundamentally changed character
B
Adverse possession, because the surrounding commercial use negates the restriction
C
Estoppel, because the HOA failed to enforce the restriction against commercial neighbors
D
Prescription, because the commercial activity has occurred for more than five years

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

deed_restrictionschanged_conditionsCC&Rsenforcement
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