The Dunwoody Homeowners Association (DHA) was founded in 1970 and acted as Dunwoody’s main civic voice on zoning and development long before the city incorporated. In 2025, Tim Brown became DHA president with a plan to refocus on planning and zoning, grow membership toward 2,500 and keep events like the 4th of July Parade and Light Up Dunwoody. Membership is $40.
Before Dunwoody had a city council, it had the DHA. For decades, the Dunwoody Homeowners Association was the most organized and influential voice in town. It helped shape development, block unwanted commercial growth and give residents a say in what happened next.
Now Tim Brown is stepping into leadership with renewed energy after a challenging year. He shares why the DHA still matters, how Dunwoody is changing, and how the organization will stand up for residents when it counts. Check out the DHA website to see what a $40 membership means for the community, and why it matters just as much as a meal at Tim’s favorite spot, Joey D’s.
Listen on Apple Podcasts. This episode is sponsored by Dr. Brett Friedman with Village Orthodontics and Discover Dunwoody.
How the Dunwoody Homeowners Association Started
The DHA formed in 1970, when Dunwoody was still unincorporated DeKalb County. County decisions around Ashford Dunwoody Road and the fast-growing Perimeter Center left residents feeling powerless, so homeowners organized.
Over the years the DHA helped preserve the Cheek-Spruill Farmhouse, shaped the character of neighborhoods like Dunwoody North and weighed in on everything from sidewalks to setbacks. It was Dunwoody’s conscience long before cityhood.
Meet Tim Brown
Tim moved to Dunwoody from Alabama in 1998 and stayed for the schools and the people. His kids went through Vanderlyn Elementary, Dunwoody High School and DeKalb School of the Arts.
He watched zoning hearings, served on the planning committee during incorporation and wrote early vision plans for areas like the Shallowford corridor. Then-president Bob Fiscella kept recruiting him back, even promising a ride in the Wienermobile. Eventually Tim said yes.
Back to Planning and Zoning
Tim wants the Dunwoody Homeowners Association focused again on planning and zoning. He pointed to High Street, approved by the county back in 2006, as proof of how long these decisions last. Newer proposals, like drive-thru restaurants near Perimeter, need local input on traffic, noise and density.
His view: developers should come to the DHA first, every time.
Bringing in New Voices
In his first month, Tim called dozens of current, former and brand-new members. A lot of newer residents didn’t know the DHA existed, or thought it just planned parties. So he’s recruiting people who don’t always agree with him and asked local social media voices for advice on reaching younger families.
The Events Stay
The DHA isn’t giving up the events people love, like Light Up Dunwoody, Food Truck Thursdays at Brook Run and the 4th of July Parade. “Someone might not show up to a zoning meeting,” Tim said, “but they’ll come to a food truck night. That’s our chance to meet them.”
Why Join the DHA for $40?
No tote bag. What you get is a voice. When a rezoning, ordinance or traffic change is coming near your house, the DHA is already talking to the city. That influence has shaped things like drive-thru layouts and building setbacks around town. Tim’s goal is 2,500 members.
Join or check your membership at DunwoodyGA.org.
My Take
I was on the DHA board when we recorded this, and I’ve seen how much work goes into it. The Dunwoody Homeowners Association matters most when people show up. If you live here, join and stay informed. The story of Dunwoody’s cityhood shows what neighbors can do together.
Thinking About Moving to Dunwoody?
Read my Moving to Dunwoody guide, search Dunwoody homes for sale, or text me or call 404-502-8683.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Dunwoody Homeowners Association
What is the Dunwoody Homeowners Association?
A volunteer civic group founded in 1970 that advocates for Dunwoody residents on planning and zoning and runs community events like the 4th of July Parade and Light Up Dunwoody.
How much does DHA membership cost?
$40. You can join or check your status at DunwoodyGA.org.
Who is the DHA president?
Tim Brown became president in 2025, with Bob Fiscella staying on as vice president during the transition.
Is the DHA an HOA?
No. Despite the name, it is a citywide civic association, not a neighborhood HOA with rules or required dues.