Below are more of the frequently asked questions that the Community Relations Department encounters regarding the Home Improvement Application process. This is the second part of a four part series.

If I select exterior house colors from the Association’s color palette, is my application automatically approved?
No. The Association’s color palette is a suggested guideline only. Each tract has its own exterior color theme and colors that may be acceptable in one tract may not be in another. Additionally, some colors, such as dark green and blue, were established by the builders and may not be acceptable except on those homes which used these colors originally. The Architectural Guidelines & Standards do not allow homes directly across the street from each other to be painted the same colors and also requires a two-house separation between homes painted the same color scheme.

Do I need to apply to replace an item on my home or in my yard if I am replacing that item exactly as is?
For replacement of elements on the home or in the yard that were previously approved, a new application is generally not necessary and replacement may be commenced provided that the exact same product/material is being used. There are some notable exceptions, however, for improvements for which the Standards have changed. For example, replacement basketball backboards require an application and prior approval and must be clear acrylic only. Also, “grape stake” wood fencing as originally installed by some of the developers is not an acceptable replacement and must be changed out to the “picture frame” style wood fence in compliance with the Association’s “Replacement Fence Standard.” The Association recommends that you contact the Community Relations Department anytime you plan to replace items to be sure that you are in compliance. Please be advised, however, that any change including style, color, size, material, height, etc. does require an application and prior approval from the Architectural Committee prior to commencement of the project.

Can I install a play structure in my yard? What are the Standards for play structures?
Play structures do require a home improvement application and prior approval from the Architectural Committee prior to installation. The Standards require that they be screened from view as best as possible and that they blend with the architectural characteristics of the home and neighborhood in both colors and materials. They may not be located in front yards and no structure shall exceed eighteen (18) inches above the nearest adjacent fence at its highest point. Finally, the setback requirement for play structures is three (3) feet from the property line or fence to the roof overhang.

Why can’t I have the same type of roof that my neighbor on the next street over has?
Each tract has its own roofing theme as established by the developer. The Architectural Guidelines & Standards specify that applications are reviewed for compatibility with each tract. Therefore, when reviewing applications for a new roof, the Architectural Committee must decide whether the proposed roofing material blends in and is compatible with the tract in question only. Roofing materials approved for one tract may not be acceptable for another tract.

Stay tuned to future issues of Reflections for more answers to frequently asked questions.