Understanding Guest Policies at The Gallery: What You Need to Know About Hosting Visitors Under 55

Living in a 55+ community like The Gallery comes with many benefits—quiet surroundings, shared interests, and amenities tailored to an active adult lifestyle. But along with these perks, there are specific rules in place to ensure the community remains compliant with federal guidelines and maintains the quality of life that residents expect.

One of the most important—and often misunderstood—rules pertains to overnight guests under the age of 55. Whether it’s adult children visiting from out of town or grandchildren staying for the weekend, it’s essential to understand what’s allowed so you can host your loved ones while staying within the community’s regulations.

Why These Rules Exist

The Gallery, like all age-restricted communities, is governed by the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA), which allows certain housing developments to legally limit residency based on age. In order to maintain its status as a 55+ community, at least 80% of the occupied units must have at least one resident who is 55 or older.

To preserve this status and the lifestyle it supports, guest policies are enforced—particularly when it comes to visitors under the age threshold.

The Guest Policy for Those Under 55

At The Gallery, owners may host overnight guests under the age of 55 for no more than 60 days in a calendar year. This applies whether those days are consecutive or spread out over time. This rule ensures that the primary demographic remains adults aged 55 and over while still allowing residents to enjoy visits from family and friends.

Here’s a quick summary:

• Guests under 55 may stay overnight for a maximum of 60 days per calendar year
• These 60 days can be consecutive or non-consecutive
• The rule applies to each unit, not each guest

Best Practices for Residents

To help you enjoy time with loved ones while staying within the rules, here are a few tips:

• Track visits: Keep a simple log of guest stays to ensure you don’t exceed the 60-day limit.
• Communicate with management: Let the front office or community association know when you’ll have guests, especially for extended stays.
• Know the rules: Review your community’s full guest policy regularly to stay informed about any updates or additional guidelines.

A Balance of Comfort and Compliance

The guest policy at The Gallery is designed to strike a balance between maintaining the integrity of a 55+ community and allowing residents to spend meaningful time with younger family members and friends. By following the guidelines, you help preserve the community’s unique environment—and ensure it remains a welcoming, well-regulated place to call home.

If you have questions about the guest policy or need clarification about specific situations, don’t hesitate to reach out to the community management team. They’re here to help!