The typical association is set up by the original developer of the building, whether it be new construction or gut rehab. With the condo association there should be formal legal document called the condominium declarations (often called decs & bylaws), which describe the property, percentage of ownership, limited common elements such as hallways, parking, etc. There will also be another formal legal document called the rules and regulations (commonly called rules & regs); they lay out what can and cannot be done in and around the building. Examples of rules and regs are pets rules, pet weight limits, use of common areas, and even restrictions on smoking to name just a few.