Many Colorado neighborhoods have both a metro district and a homeowners association (HOA). They can look similar from the outside, but they are different kinds of organizations with different jobs.
The main differences
| Metro district | HOA | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A local government under Colorado law | A private nonprofit association |
| How it's funded | Property taxes (mill levy), plus some fees | Dues and assessments |
| How you pay | On your county property tax bill, plus any fees it bills | Billed directly by the HOA or its manager |
| Who governs | Board elected by eligible electors | Board elected by the owners |
| Rules it follows | Open meetings, open records, public budget and audit | The declaration, bylaws and Colorado's HOA law |
| Typical responsibilities | Public infrastructure: streets, drainage, parks, trails, some amenities | Private common areas, covenants and architectural rules |
Who to call about what
Every community divides these responsibilities differently. As a general guide:
- Metro district: district-owned parks, trails, landscaping, drainage, entry monuments and amenities the district owns. In some communities, covenant enforcement too.
- HOA: covenants, architectural approval and private common areas, when the community has an HOA.
- City or county: public streets, snowplowing on public roads, streetlights and trash service, in many areas.
- Utility company: water, sewer, electric and gas service problems.
Not sure? Your district's website lists what the district is responsible for and how to reach its manager. If Metro District Management manages your district, you can report an issue online.
Learn more
See Metro Districts 101 for how districts work and Understanding your budget and mill levy for how they are funded.
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. For questions about a specific district, contact that district’s manager or attorney. Board members can find training and resources through the Special District Association of Colorado.