A heated confrontation in Orlando over an FHP patrol car’s parking space has moved beyond the usual tension between residents and homeowner associations — it’s become a test case for a state law giving first responders a sweeping exemption from HOA rules.

Florida Highway Patrol trooper Eduardo Hernandez said he was told when he rented his home that he could park his cruiser in the guest parking at the Carter Glen neighborhood clubhouse. But then the homeowners association disagreed, saying the rules prohibited him from parking it there overnight.

“I asked the property manager what the problem was and she said residents can’t park there,” said Hernandez, who says his driveway and garage are filled with his personal car, motorcycle and other belongings. “I told her law enforcement vehicles

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