My recent post on one man's frustration with his condo association has unleashed some pent-up frustration among Whistleblower readers who belong to these kinds of associations. One townhouse owner in Minnetonka wants to know: Can a homeowner association impose a stricter leash law than the city?

The city of Minnetonka allows dogs off a leash if they're at their owners' side and obedient to their commands. But this resident's townhouse association requires dogs to be on leashes, even in driveways, and will assess fines for violations, she says.

Homeowner associations often impose rules for residents that go beyond city ordinances, Minnetonka community development director Julie Wischnack said. In Wischnack's view, a private leash rule can apply in common areas they maintain, which may include driveways and yards.

But on a sidewalk or other right of way in Minnetonka, you can take well-behaved dogs for a leash-free walk.

Here's the language of the Minnetonka city ordinance: