What are deed restrictions and how do they limit property use?

Deed restrictions, also called restrictive covenants or CC and Rs, are private limitations on property use written into the deed or recorded in subdivision declarations. Common restrictions include minimum square footage for homes, approved building materials, prohibition of certain uses like commercial activity, and requirements to maintain landscaping. They run with the land and bind all future owners. Deed restrictions are enforced by other property owners in the subdivision through civil lawsuits, not by the government.