You’d have to google that.
My understanding is that animals dislike strong scented plants.
Marigolds are said to discourage them, too.
Oregano and marjoram also grow like ground covers. Thyme is beautiful when it flowers, which is this time of year.
You could very easily surreptitiously do an herb garden in spite of the HOA, IMO.
I think you’re right about the herb garden. It’s the idea of fruits and vegetables in the ground that are their biggest garden complaints. There’s someone new to the board that is giddy with her power now, and is going house by house looking for wrongdoing. I have several neighbors that have gotten written complaints, and worse even, threats to sue them and put liens on their homes. It’s gotten ridiculous.
What it means for us is that we will likely keep our noses clean for a few more years until my husband retires. I don’t want to have to move. This place is the first place that has felt like home to me. We have woods and a little creek in the backyard. We’ve turned this place into a sanctuary of sorts.