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Bylaws provide the framework for your organization by outlining the rules that will govern the operation of the group.  They should clearly state the organization’s purpose, mission, and structure.  Bylaws are just an instruction manual for how your group will operate; when you write the bylaws use language that everyone can understand.  Below is a general outline to help you write your bylaws**. Article 1 - Name Clearly state the name of your organization.  Article 2 - Purpose State the purpose of the organization (i.e. why was the organization formed?) Identify who you will serve (what are the boundaries of the organization). What is the association's function (community building, education, crime prevention, advocacy etc.)? Article 3 - Membership Who can be a member of the association? Define types of membership (active/ non-active/ honorary etc. ) Will there be any dues charged for membership? Article 4 - Voting Who is eligible to vote? How many members have to be present to hold a vote? Define quorum. Article 5 - Board of Directors Define the positions that make up the board. Define the terms of office. Define the duties of the officers. Define the powers of the board. Define how the board will be elected. Resignation. Vacancy. Suspension or removal. Compensation. Article 6 - Meeting and Organization When will the association meet? What rules will govern the meetings? How will meetings be publicized? Can special meeting be called?  If so, what will be the procedure? Can the board act without meeting? How is the fiscal year of the association defined? Article 7 - Committees List standing/permanent committees. Who can serve on committees? How are committees appointed/formed? What are the powers of committees? When will committees meet? Article 8 - Contracts, Checks, Deposits and Funds Who can execute contracts on behalf of the association? Who may write checks on behalf of the association? How are they approved? When and where will funds be deposited?  Who will be responsible for depositing them? What records will be permanently kept and who will keep them? Article 9 - Amendment of Bylaws When will the bylaws be reviewed? How can the bylaws be amended? How will changes to the bylaws be communicated to the association? Article 10 - Dissolution What will happen to the assets of the association? Article 11- Prohibitions Is there anything you want to explicitly prohibit the association from doing? **  This information is provided only as a guide for drafting your neighborhood association bylaws.  The City of Plano recommends that you consult with an attorney to review  your organization's bylaws prior to adoption. <Back to Creating Neighborhood Associations>