Brambleton Community Association Design Guidelines

Transcription

1 Brambleton Community Association Design Guidelines Revised 4/7/2015 Also available online at

2 INTRODUCTION 5 VISION, MISSION & CORE VALUES 5 PURPOSE OF THE DESIGN GUIDELINES 5 BASIS FOR AND OBJECTIVES OF PROTECTIVE COVENANTS 5 ROLE AND AUTHORITY OF THE COVENANTS COMMITTEE 6 ALTERATIONS REQUIRING REVIEW AND APPROVAL BY THE COVENANTS COMMITTEE 7 DESIGN REVIEW CRITERIA 8 APPLICATION AND REVIEW PROCEDURES 11 ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURES 13 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE STANDARDS 16 GENERAL PROJECT GUIDELINES 17 DESIGN GUIDELINES 18 ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS 19 AIR CONDITIONING UNITS/HEAT PUMPS 21 ANTENNAS AND SATELLITE DISHES 22 ARBORS 23 ARTIFICIAL TURF/OUTDOOR CARPETING 24 ATTIC VENTILATORS 25 AWNINGS/SUN CONTROL DEVICES 26 BASKETBALL EQUIPMENT 27 CHIMNEYS/FLUES 29 CLOTHES LINES/WIND-DRYING DEVICES 31 COLOR CHANGES 31 COMPOST BINS 32 DECKS 34 Section Specific Requirements: 34 Section Section Section A. Ground-Level Deck: Detached Home 37 Ground Level Decks: Attached Townhomes: 39 B. Elevated Decks: Detached Home 41 Elevated Decks: Attached Townhome: 42 DOG HOUSES AND DOG RUNS 44 DOORS 45 Door Additions/Replacements 45 Storm/Screen Doors 46 Garage Doors 47 DRAINS/FRENCH DRAINS 48 DRIVEWAYS/PARKING PADS 49 EXTERIOR DECORATIVE OBJECTS 51 EXTERIOR LIGHTING 52 FENCES 55 Section Specific Requirements: 56 Section 3, 14 & Sections 7, 8 & 9 56 Section Section Builder Specific Requirements: 56

3 Gulick Group 56 Stanley Martin Homes 56 Miller & Smith 57 FIREWOOD 60 FLAGPOLES/FLAGSTAFFS 60 GAZEBOS 61 GUTTERS and DOWNSPOUTS 62 HANDICAPPED ACCESS FACILITIES 63 HOLIDAY DECORATIONS AND LIGHTING 63 HOT TUBS/SPAS 64 HOUSE NUMBERS 65 IRRIGATION 66 LANDSCAPING 67 LANDSCAPE FEATURES 70 MAILBOXES 71 OUTDOOR KITCHENS/PERMANENT GRILL AREAS/PORTABLE GRILLS 72 PATIOS 73 PEST CONTROL DEVICES 74 OUTDOOR FIREPLACE/FIREPIT 75 OUTDOOR FURNITURE 76 OUTDOOR STORAGE 76 PERGOLAS 77 PLAY HOUSES 78 RAIN BARRELS 80 RECREATION AND PLAY EQUIPMENT 81 ROOFING 83 SCREENED/OPEN PORCHES 84 Builder /Section Specific Requirements - Section SECURITY DEVICES 86 SHADE STRUCTURES/CANOPIES/SAILS 87 SHEDS 88 SHUTTERS 90 SIDING 91 SIGNS 92 TEMPORARY SIGNAGE 92 SKYLIGHTS 93 SOLAR PANELS 94 SUNROOMS 95 SWIMMING POOLS 97 TEMPORARY STORAGE CONTAINERS/PODS 98 TRAMPOLINES 98 TRASH ENCLOSURES 99 TREES 100 Tree Removal 100 Planting Trees 101 TRELLISES 102 VEGETABLE GARDENS 103 WALKWAYS/RAMPS 104 WALLS/RETAINING WALLS/FEATURE WALLS 106

4 WALL/BORDERS FOR LANDSCAPING BEDS 107 WATER FEATURES/WATER GARDENS/PONDS 108 WINDOWS 109 Window Additions/Replacements 109 Storm/Screen Windows 109 Window Additions/Replacements 109 WIRES AND CABLES 111 MISC. 112 APPENDICES 114 APPENDIX I APPLICATIONS & REVIEW PROCESS QUICK OVERVIEW GUIDE 115 A) Design Review Application B) Home Based Business Application C) Review Process Quick Overview Guide APPENDIX II-A 116 Standard fence detail Spaced picket fence APPENDIX II-B 117 Standard fence detail Spaced picket fence with Mount vernon dip APPENDIX II-C 118 Standard fence detail Aluminum/iron APPENDIX II-D & II-D(2) 119 Standard fence detail Vertical board with lattice top (For Miller and Smith Single Family Detached Homes and Certain Miller and Smith Attached Town Homes Only) APPENDIX III 120 Approved storm door styles APPENDIX IV 121 Miller & Smith Grand Vista Homes Section 22 Deck, Screened & Open Porch Details APPENDIX V 122 Additional resources APPENDIX VI 123 Hearing guidelines APPENDIX VII 124 Adopt-a-spot guidelines APPENDIX VIII 125 Overlook Lots Van Metre & Camberley Lots

5 INTRODUCTION BRAMBLETON COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION S VISION, MISSION & CORE VALUES Brambleton Community Association has established a strategic planning process to ensure that the organization is focused on future goals. As part of the process, the Association has identified the Vision, Mission and Core Values of the Association as outlined below. The entire Strategic Plan and the goals are available at Vision: Leading a hometown community with high-tech traditions where everyone can connect with life. Mission: Brambleton Community Association is committed to proactively leading a quality community for its residents through stewardship of resources, advanced technology, and enhanced lifestyle opportunities. PURPOSE OF THE DESIGN GUIDELINES The primary purpose of the Design Guidelines is to familiarize Brambleton Lot Owners with the objectives, scope and application of the overall design review criteria, specific design guidelines and property maintenance standards which are intended, and will be enforced, to maintain the aesthetic appearance and environmental quality of the Brambleton Community. Familiarity with the Design Guidelines should assist Lot Owners in the preparation of applications for modifications to their property which are consistent with the design standards and guidelines and in the maintenance of their property in compliance with the property maintenance standards. BASIS FOR AND OBJECTIVES OF PROTECTIVE COVENANTS The Declaration for Brambleton ("Declaration") is the legal document for the Brambleton Community Association that contains covenants and use restrictions, including those pertaining to the Design Guidelines. The Declaration is recorded in the land records of Loudoun County. Legally, these covenants are a part of the deed for each Lot and are binding upon all Lot Owners, their tenants, and their successors in Ownership, irrespective of whether the Owners are familiar with such covenants. The Declaration is the legal basis for the protective covenants and any rules/regulations adopted pursuant thereto, including these Design Guidelines. The objective of the protective covenants is to establish legally enforceable use, maintenance, environmental and architectural design standards for the entire community. As part of that larger objective, the promulgation and enforcement of the Design Guidelines accomplishes the following: Maintain consistency with the overall design concept for the community; Promote harmonious architectural and environmental design qualities and features; Promote and enhance the visual and aesthetic appearance of the community. 5

6 ROLE AND AUTHORITY OF THE COVENANTS COMMITTEE All Lot Owners in Brambleton are automatically members of the Brambleton Community Association. The Association is a non-stock corporation which owns and is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of all Common Areas within the community. The Association is also responsible for the administration and enforcement of all covenants which are applicable to property Owners, including the Design Guidelines. The Declaration (Article 9) Architectural Review provides that responsibility for the enforcement of the Design Guidelines shall be exercised through a Covenants Committee, the members of which shall be appointed by the Board of Directors of the Association. The Declaration provides for the creation of several covenants committees. The committee responsible for reviewing applications for modifications and improvements to single-family residential Lots is the Modifications and Rules Enforcement Committee, which is referred to in this document as the "Covenants Committee," or just "Committee." The Committee is responsible for enforcing the Association's Design Guidelines with respect to exterior modifications to homes and Lots proposed by Lot Owners. The Committee does not have approval authority over initial construction by the Declarant, any Participating Builder or for construction on parcels adjacent to the community. The Committee shall review and approve (or disapprove) applications submitted by Lot Owners for exterior additions, alterations or modifications to a home or Lot. The review process shall be governed by these Design Guidelines as promulgated by the Association's Board of Directors. As part of its responsibilities, the Covenants Committee makes recommendations to the Board of Directors with respect to the modification of the Design Guidelines initially approved by the Board. The Committee is also responsible for reviewing possible violations of the Association's Design Guidelines, as well as violations of the Association s legal documents and rules and regulations. The Committee has authority to take such enforcement actions as outlined in the Declaration for Brambleton and Policy Resolutions of the Board. Any exterior modifications to the dwelling, Lot or any other improvement thereon require the prior approval of the Committee. Lot Owners are advised that no work on any proposed change which requires an approved application shall begin until the Covenants Committee has approved an application for such work. If work is begun prior to approval, Lot Owners are advised that they may be required to return the property to its former condition at their expense. If the application is disapproved wholly or in part and either judicial action or arbitration is required to enforce the protective covenants or these Design Guidelines, the prevailing party in such action or arbitration may be awarded its attorney s fees and any other costs or expenses related to the proceeding. Approval by Brambleton s Covenants Committee shall in no way be deemed an approval of the modification, alteration or improvement with respect to the location, structural design, suitability of water flow or drainage, location of utilities, or any other aspect of the project which may be governed by federal, state or county laws, ordinances or regulations. The scope of the Covenants Committee's review of applications does not include review for compliance with any applicable building and zoning codes of Loudoun County. 6

7 Section 3.3.(a) (Association Access) of the Declaration grants the right of access over and through any portion of the Property (excluding any improvement) to the Association, the managing agent and any other persons authorized by the Board of Directors or the appropriate Covenants Committee, in the exercise and discharge of their respective powers and responsibilities, including without limitation to make inspections, correct any condition originating in a Lot or in the Common Area threatening another Lot or the Common Area, correct drainage, perform installations or upkeep of utilities, landscaping or other improvements located on the Property for which the Association is responsible for upkeep, or correct any condition which violates the Association Documents. (The agents, contractors, Officers and Directors of the Association may also enter any portion of the Property (excluding any improvement) in order to utilize or provide for the upkeep of the areas subject to easements granted in this Article to the Association.) ALTERATIONS REQUIRING REVIEW AND APPROVAL BY THE COVENANTS COMMITTEE The Declaration for Brambleton is recorded among the land records of Loudoun County and encumbers all real property (land) within the Brambleton community. Therefore, any clearing, grading, construction or improvements must be reviewed and approved by the Committee prior to implementation. Such construction or improvements include any additions, alterations or modifications to the exterior of properties or homes within Brambleton, whether permanent or temporary. The review process is not limited to major additions or alterations, such as adding a room, deck, or patio. It also includes such items as changes in color and materials. Approval is also required when an existing item is to be removed. In general, only those areas that are painted may be repainted; only those areas that are stained may be re-stained; unpainted surfaces and unstained areas shall remain unpainted and unstained. The Lot Owner is responsible for complying with these Design Guidelines, initiating the reviews and obtaining the required approvals. While there are no exemptions or automatic approvals and each application will be reviewed on an individual basis, there are a number of exceptions to this otherwise inclusive review requirement. 1. Building exteriors may be repainted or re-stained provided that there is no color change from the original. Similarly, exterior building components may be repaired or replaced so long as there is no change to what was provided at original construction. 2. In general, landscape improvements of a small scale, such as foundation plantings or single specimen plantings that do not involve a change in topography or grade and which are not of sufficient scale to constitute a natural structure, will be exempt from the design review process. 3. There are several modifications referenced in the Design Guidelines where approval is not required, provided that the modification conforms to the Design Guidelines. For example, installation of a storm door which conforms to the Design Guidelines does not require prior approval. 7

8 If there is any doubt as to whether or not a proposed exterior change is exempt from design review and approval, please seek clarification from the Covenants Committee before proceeding with the improvement. Clarification should be requested in writing and submitted via using the contact information below. An application is attached to these Design Guidelines. To obtain additional applications, please go to the Brambleton Community Association website located at If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact: Brambleton Community Association Ryan Road, Suite 210 Brambleton, VA Office / Fax covenants@brambleton.org Website: DESIGN REVIEW CRITERIA In reviewing applications for modifications, additions or improvements to homes and Lots, the Covenants Committee will examine the conformance of applications to the these Design Guidelines, as well as to any covenants or use restrictions in the recorded Declaration. There will be instances where the approval or disapproval of an application is based upon specific permitted or prohibited actions, uses or materials. For example, an application to install a chain link fence will not be approved because the type of fencing material is prohibited by both the Declaration and the Design Guidelines. However, the Design Guidelines cannot envision every type of improvement for which an application may be submitted and, as such, there must be latitude for the Covenants Committee to review applications based upon certain criteria. Judgments of acceptable design are based on the criteria listed below which, depending on the particular application, may not be all-inclusive. The latitude to evaluate applications based on appropriate design criteria should not result in the imposition of personal opinion or taste by the Covenants Committee. The Covenants Committee possesses the authority to evaluate each application based upon its individual merit and specific circumstances, such as characteristics of the housing style, the individual site and relationship to surrounding properties and environmental features. What may constitute an acceptable design and approvable application in one case may not in another. 1. Relation to Environmental Conditions and Community Open Space Harmony of a design with its surrounding natural environment is an important factor. Fencing, in particular, can have damaging effects on open space. Other factors, such as the removal of trees, disruption of the natural topography, vegetation and changes in rate or direction of storm water run-off, also adversely affect the environment in terms of aesthetics or functionality. 2. Validity of Concept The basic idea must be sound and appropriate to its surroundings. 3. Design Compatibility The proposed improvements must be compatible with the architectural characteristics of the applicant s house, adjacent or adjoining houses, and the 8

9 neighborhood setting. Compatibility is defined as similarity in architectural style, quality of workmanship, similar use of materials, color and construction details. 4. Location and Impact on Neighbors The proposed alteration should relate favorably to the landscape, the existing structure and the neighborhood. The primary concerns are access, view, sunlight, ventilation, and drainage. For example, fences may obstruct views, breezes, airflow or access to neighboring property; decks or larger additions may cause unwanted shadows on adjacent patios or infringe on a neighbor s privacy and view. For another example, an inappropriate clutter of play equipment or an ill-planned landscape scheme may also affect existing neighbors. Common Area Proximity Any exterior modification that may have an impact on the aesthetics of an adjacent Common Area may have more stringent requirements for architectural facades, landscaping, materials, quality and style. 5. Scale The size (in three dimensions) of the proposed alteration should relate well to adjacent structures and its surrounds. For example, a large addition to a small house may be inappropriate. 6. Color Color may be used to soften or intensify visual impact. Parts of an addition that are similar in design to an existing house, such as roofs and trim, should match in color and composition. A sample board of exterior materials, finishes, and colors may be required at the sole discretion of the Covenants Committee. 7. Materials Continuity is established by use of the same or compatible materials as were used in the original house. The options may be limited somewhat by the design and materials of the original house. 8. Workmanship The quality of work should be equal to, or better than, that of the surrounding area. Poor practices, besides causing the owner problems, can be visually objectionable. By approving an application, the Brambleton Community Association, Board and the Committee assume no responsibility for the safety, structural integrity, quality or workmanship of any new construction. It is the responsibility of each applicant to obtain a Building Permit where required and comply with Loudoun County codes and regulations. 9. Timing Projects that remain incomplete for long periods of time are visually objectionable and can be a nuisance and safety hazard for neighbors and community. Article 9.5(b)(1) of the Declaration states: Any Person obtaining approval of the Covenants Committee shall commence construction or alteration in accordance with plans and specifications approved within six months after the date of approval and shall substantially complete any construction or alteration within twelve months after the date of approval or within such other period as specified in the approval. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the approval may provide for a different period during which to commence or complete construction. If any such Person does not complete the work within twelve months after approval, or such other time period determined by the Covenants Committee, the approval shall lapse and be 9

10 considered a violation. The Association will rely on the Enforcement Procedures to correct the violation. 10. Site Appearance A daily clean-up of project waste materials is necessary, including the orderly stacking and storage of all construction materials/supplies out of sight. No long-term accumulation of materials may be stored in a location Visible from Neighboring Property. Materials are to be stored out of view. 10

11 APPLICATION AND REVIEW PROCEDURES Application and review procedures followed by the Covenants Committee are detailed in Article 9 of the Declaration and below. 1. Applications. All applications for proposed modifications, additions or improvements must be submitted in writing using the application form authorized by the Covenants Committee. A copy of this form is included as an exhibit (Appendix I) to this document. Applications must be complete in order to commence the review process. Incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant with a statement of deficiencies which must be remedied in order to be considered for review. Unless notified to the contrary, Lot Owners should submit applications to the following address: Brambleton Community Association Ryan Road, Suite 210 Brambleton, VA covenants@brambleton.org 2. Supporting Documentation. The application must include a complete and accurate description of the proposed improvement(s). In order to permit evaluation by the Covenants Committee, supporting exhibits will frequently be required. Examples include: an official record plat showing the location and dimensions of the proposed improvement; architectural drawings or plans, as applicable; landscape plan; material and/or color samples, etc. These Design Guidelines and the application form provide guidance with respect to the supporting documentation required for various types of improvements. Photographs of existing conditions and surrounding areas (if applicable) are encouraged in order to assist the Committee with its review. 3. Time Frame for Completion of the Review. The Covenants Committee is required to approve or disapprove any proposed improvement within sixty (60) days after the receipt of a properly completed application. However, the review period will only commence upon the receipt of a complete application form, including any required exhibits. It is therefore advisable for Lot Owners contemplating substantial improvements to first ensure that they are aware of all required supporting documentation prior to submitting a design review application. In the event that the Committee fails to act within the sixty (60) day period, an application will be automatically referred to the Board of Directors for a decision. The Board of Directors must respond within forty-five (45) days after the first Board of Directors' meeting following referral of an application to the Board, but not more than sixty (60) days following referral of the application. 4. Notice of Approval/Disapproval. Lot Owners who have submitted design review applications will be given written notice of the decision of the Covenants Committee. 5. Appeals Procedure. Lot Owners who have submitted design review applications may appeal decisions of the Covenants Committee to the Covenants Committee and the Board of Directors. 11

12 An applicant whose application has been denied or modified by the Covenants Committee may request reconsideration by the Committee if new or additional information which might clarify the application, or demonstrate its acceptability, can be provided. A request for reconsideration must be submitted in writing within ten (10) days following a decision by the Covenants Committee. The Covenants Committee shall respond to a request for reconsideration of a decision within thirty (30) days from the date of receipt of such request. A Lot Owner may appeal a decision of the Covenants Committee by submitting a written request to the Board of Directors within ten (10) days after the date of an action by the Covenants Committee. This request should include any new or additional information which might clarify the requested change or demonstrate its acceptability. The Board may, at its discretion, conduct an informal hearing related to the appeal. Such hearing must be convened at the next scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors which occurs more than ten (10) days after receipt of the appeal by the Board. The Board of Directors must consider an appeal and respond in writing to the applicant within sixty (60) days following the receipt of an appeal. 12

13 ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURES The Declaration and Bylaws of the Association empower the Covenants Committee and the Board of Directors to enforce compliance with the Association's Design Guidelines. The following enforcement procedures will be used to ensure compliance. A. Written Complaint. Any member or resident may initiate the enforcement process by filing a written complaint with the Association s Managing Agent, the Board of Directors or Covenants Committee. The complaint must include a concise statement s setting forth in clear language the specific act(s) or omission(s) by which the offending party is allegedly in violation of the Declaration or these Design Guidelines. The complaint should be as specific as possible with respect to times, dates, places and persons involved. All complaints must be signed by the complaining party ("Complainant"). B. Preliminary Investigation. Upon receipt and consideration of the complaint, the Managing Agent, member of the Board or Covenants Committee may make a preliminary investigation as to the validity of the complaint. If the condition has been corrected, or the complaint is invalid for any reason, the Managing Agent shall respond in writing to the Complainant. If the preliminary investigation indicates the need for further action, the Managing Agent may proceed as appropriate. If it is questionable as to whether a violation exists, the Managing Agent, a member of the Board or Covenants Committee shall ask the Board or Covenants Committee to investigate and provide direction. C. Notice. If preliminary investigation indicates further action is necessary, the Managing Agent shall mail a written notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the alleged offender at the alleged offender s address listed on the records of the Association and to the property address, if the record address is different. In the event that the certified mailing is refused or not picked up, notification shall be deemed to be effective three days after the date of mailing. If the violation is not of an urgent nature, as determined by the Managing Agent, the Board or Covenants Committee, an informal notice may be sent prior to the certified notice. Written notice to an alleged offender shall advise the alleged offender of the nature of the offense, the identity of the specific provision within the legal documents which has allegedly been offended, the specific remedy required, and the number of days by which corrective action must be begun or completed in order to preclude the possible imposition of a penalty or remedy. II. ENFORCEMENT REMEDIES If written notice to the alleged offender does not result in an abatement of the alleged offense, the Board or Covenants Committee may pursue enforcement remedies, which may include the following measures. 13

14 A. The suspension of use privileges of the Recreation Facilities and other Common Areas (except for streets and access ways) for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days for any infraction of the Declaration and/or Rules and Regulations (including these Design Guidelines) of the Association. The effective date of the suspension is to be determined by the Board or Covenants Committee and may be deferred to a date certain. The levying of a monetary charge in the maximum amounts of $50.00 for a single violation or $10.00 per day for a continuing violation, not to exceed a total of $ for each violation identified, or such lesser amounts as may be established by the Board of Directors. III. HEARING PROCEDURES None of the enforcement remedies cited above may be imposed by the Board or the Covenants Committee until an opportunity for a hearing has been provided to the alleged offender. The following guidelines apply to the hearing procedure: A. The Managing Agent shall send a written notice, mailed by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, to the member, advising the member of his or her right to contest the complaint at the hearing before the Board of Directors or Covenants Committee, which hearing may be scheduled no sooner than fourteen (14) days following the mailing of the notice letter. B. Such notice shall advise the member of the date, time and location of the hearing, of the member s right to be represented by counsel at the member's expense, and of an earlier date, at least five (5) days following the date of the mailing of the notice, by which the alleged offender must, by written notification to the Association s Managing Agent, confirm the intention to attend the hearing or make a request for the hearing to be conducted on a date other than as specified in the notice. A request to reschedule a hearing must be submitted in writing at least two (2) days prior to the scheduled date of the hearing. This request may be granted if reasonable and satisfactory justification for rescheduling the hearing is presented. The Board or Covenants Committee shall set all hearing dates at their discretion. When no response is received by the Association from the alleged offender by the hearing confirmation date, or the member confirms attendance but fails to attend the hearing without providing reasonable and satisfactory explanation, the alleged offender shall be deemed to have waived the right to attend the hearing. In such a case, the Board or Covenants Committee may impose enforcement sanctions in the absence of the alleged offender. No such action shall be effective until a motion of the Board or Covenants Committee is duly passed. The minutes of the hearing at which the motion is passed must contain a written statement of the results of the motion, the imposed sanction, if any, and proof that the notice and invitation to be heard was mailed. When the member exercises his or her right to a hearing, the member has a right to present information or documents, present witnesses and question any witnesses against 14

15 him, and a general albeit informal right to be heard, within reasonable limitations as established by the Committee or Board of Directors. Legal/judicial rules of evidence and of civil/trial procedure shall not apply nor shall they be enforced. Following the evidentiary portion of the hearing, the Board or Covenants Committee may conduct its deliberations in Executive Session to determine if the alleged violation occurred or exists and, if so, whether monetary charges or a suspension of recreational or facility use privileges should be imposed. Notice of the decision of the Board or Covenants Committee shall be mailed to the alleged offender by certified mail within seven (7) calendar days of the hearing or such other period of time provided by the Virginia Property Owners Association Act. When the outcome is unfavorable to the member, the Board or Covenants Committee shall instruct the Managing Agent to undertake the administrative actions required to implement the sanction(s) imposed. When the outcome is favorable to the member, the records of the Association shall so indicate, and the occurrence in question shall be disregarded for purposes of determining whether any allegation of subsequent offenses are regarded as continuing offenses. If the Board or Covenants Committee, after providing an opportunity for a hearing to the alleged offender, determines there is satisfactory proof that a member has committed or is committing a continuing offense, and that monetary charges should be assessed, the calendar days for which daily charges may accrue shall commence on the day after the member is in receipt of the notice of the decision made at the hearing and shall terminate upon the day on which the Association s Board of Directors, Covenants Committee or Managing Agent observes that correction has occurred, or is notified by the member that such correction has occurred, subject to later confirmation by the Association. In no event shall the daily charge for a continuing violation be imposed for a period in excess of ninety (90) days. A member shall be deemed to have received notice of an action three (3) days from the date of mailing of a certified letter. IV. RIGHT OF APPEAL Any member upon whom a sanction has been imposed by the Covenants Committee in accordance with this Resolution may appeal such decision to the Board of Directors. The appeal must be in writing and submitted to the Board within ten (10) days from the date of an action by the Covenants Committee. In the event of an appeal, any sanctions imposed by the Covenants Committee shall be suspended until the Board has acted on the appeal. V. APPLICABILITY The procedures delineated herein may be applied to violations of the rules and regulations and legal documents of the Association, but do not preclude the additional independent application of any other enforcement procedures and remedies, as authorized in the Association s Declaration, Policy or Regulatory Resolutions and state law, including, but not limited to: 15

16 A. Tagging and towing of prohibited or unauthorized vehicles as authorized under Policy Resolution No. 6, Vehicle Policies. B. The removal of pets from the property for causing or creating a nuisance or disturbance, as authorized by Policy Resolution No. 7, Pet Policies. C. Initiation of legal action as authorized by the Association's Declaration or the Code of Virginia. PROPERTY MAINTENANCE STANDARDS A. All portions of a Lot which are not improved by an impervious surface or a structure must be maintained with grass, landscape plantings or mulch. No bare earth may be exposed on a Lot. The use of gravel, river rock or other non-plant based ground cover is restricted to limited use such as to assist with drainage at the termination of a downspout or air conditioning condensate line. These materials may not to be used as primary ground cover on a Lot. No artificial turf, flowers or other materials are permitted. B. All turf areas on a Lot must be kept neatly mowed, trimmed and edged to a consistent height. Turf may not be permitted to exceed six (6) inches in height at any time. C. Turf areas and other vegetation should be watered during dry periods, unless restrictions are imposed by the water authority. Any dead plants, shrubs or trees are to be immediately removed and replaced with similar landscaping material the following fall or spring, whichever is sooner. D. Turf areas and mulched landscape beds are to be kept as weed free as reasonable. At no time shall weed cover exceed more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the total turf area or 10% of mulched areas. E. No trash, debris or related containers may accumulate or be stored in a visible location on a Lot. Construction materials required for the improvement of a home or Lot are to be neatly stored in as unobtrusive a location on the Lot as possible when not in use F. All hedges, trees and shrubs must be neatly trimmed and maintained and their size maintained in proportion to the Lot and home through pruning. Tree stakes are provided when young trees are installed but are to be removed after one (1) year. If the stakes are left in place it can cause damage to the growing tree and become unsightly. All trees, plants and other landscaping materials shall be maintained such that they do not encroach on sidewalks. Tree limbs shall be pruned to a height of at least 8 above the sidewalk to provide unobstructed access. G. The exterior of a home must be maintained in an attractive manner. No significant blistering or peeling of exterior painted surfaces is permitted. Any exterior building components (i.e., siding, gutters and downspouts, roof shingles, windows and doors) which are missing, broken or otherwise in a state of disrepair must be repaired as quickly as possible 16

17 H. Mailboxes must be maintained to be functional and in good condition and repair. The use of reflective house numbers on the mailbox is strongly encouraged. The use of decorations on a mailbox is discouraged and the guidelines for Holiday Decorations apply. I. If a carriage light, or other type of lighting designed to operate automatically from dusk to dawn, is connected to the dwelling located on an Owner s Lot, such Owner shall be responsible for the daily operation and ongoing Upkeep of such light. If replacing the bulbs in the lamp does not render it operational, there may be a problem with the sensor on the post, the breaker, GFI outlet, and/or the wiring. Consulting with neighbors, the builders warranty department, or a licensed electrician, are resources for resolution. J. The Association requires residents to clear public sidewalks adjacent to their property of snow and ice as per the Loudoun County Ordinance. GENERAL PROJECT GUIDELINES Prior to beginning any project, all required building permits must be obtained and posted. Residents are reminded to contact Miss Utility, and to construct the improvements in a workmanlike manner in conformance with all applicable building and zoning codes. In general, all projects must be completed within one year of the commencement of the project. The temporary use of roll-off dumpsters during construction is permitted. The preferred placement location is on a private driveway. If a private or public street must be used, placement must be compliant with County and State requirements and sidewalks, driveways, vehicular traffic and sightlines for vehicular traffic may not be impeded. Written notice of intent to use this type of container, including the proposed placement, must be provided to the Management Office at: Brambleton Community Association Ryan Road, Suite 210 Brambleton, VA Office / Fax covenants@brambleton.org Contractor signage must meet the guidelines found under the heading of Temporary Signage. Commercial vehicles (as such vehicles are defined in Section 8.2(n) of the Declaration) related to any project may not park within Brambleton overnight. A contractor is considered a visitor or guest of the Lot Owners for whom the contractor is working. The member is therefore responsible to ensure that the contractor is aware of and complies with all of the Association s governing documents, policies, rules and regulations. 17

18 Per Articles 7 and 12 of the Declaration for Brambleton, Lot Owners are responsible for any damage and all costs to restore, repair or replace materials within Common Areas, or to Association Property, that results from any work performed by a resident or their contractor Lot Owners are responsible to ensure there is no negative impact to drainage systems or patterns as a result of any exterior modification they may make to their Lot. In addition, Lot Owners are required to mitigate any negative drainage impact to adjacent Lots which may occur as a result of any exterior modifications made by the member. PRIVATE IMPROVEMENTS PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY Lot Owners are hereby put on notice that the front property lines of most Lots do not extend to the public street and are typically located a few feet behind the curb and gutter, or public sidewalk. Lot Owners shall not install, construct or place any private facilities or improvements, including, but not limited to sprinkler/irrigation systems, fences, walls, landscaping, pavers, signs or other decorative improvements and appurtenant facilities within the dedicated public street right-of-way. Loudoun County, the Virginia Department of Transportation and/or the Declarant, as required for bond release and State road acceptance, may, in their sole discretion, without prior notice to the Lot Owner, remove any and all private facilities or improvements located within the dedicated public street right-of-way. DESIGN GUIDELINES The specific Design Guidelines, detailed on the following pages, have been adopted by the Board of Directors. Any proposed exterior improvement to a home or Lot which is not specifically referenced in these Guidelines requires application to and approval from the Covenants Committee. These Design Guidelines have been prepared in order to assist the Committee and Applicants with the design and review process. Because the Design Guidelines may be reviewed and revised from time to time, Applicants should consult the Brambleton website or contact the management office of the Brambleton Community Association prior to submission if there are any questions and to confirm the status of specific guidelines or design issues. Reference Documents The Declaration for Brambleton Policy Resolution #4 Enforcement Procedures Policy Resolution #5 Design Review Procedures and Guidelines Policy Resolution #6 Vehicle Policies Policy Resolution #7 Pet Policies Policy Resolution #8 Use of Lots, Living Units and Common Areas Policy Resolution #10 Use of Lots and Living Units for Home Based Businesses 18

19 ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS General Considerations All additions/alterations require review and approval prior to construction. Additions/alterations may include room additions or extensions, garages, porches, or other changes to elevation or structure of the home. Additions shall be planned and designed with the same care and consideration as initial house construction. The addition/alteration shall be visually integrated with the existing house through the consistent and complementary use of architectural elements, materials, quality, style, colors and other details. The design must be compatible with the existing house in style, character, scale, massing, materials, colors and surrounding homes. In general, additions/alterations to attached housing, such as townhouses, shall be limited to the options available in accordance with approved project standards established by the builder. Roof pitches must match or be compatible with the roof slope on the applicant s existing houses. Roof materials must match that of the existing house or be compatible (i.e. standing seam metal roof in complementary color); siding must match existing siding in color, material, size, quality and style. Windows and doors must match those used in the applicant s house, or be of a similar style, material and quality, and are to be located in a manner which relates well to the location of exterior openings in the existing house. Shed-style roofs are prohibited; hip-style roofs are acceptable. If changes in grade or other conditions which will affect drainage are anticipated, they must be indicated and include detailed plans. Generally, approval will be denied if adjoining properties are adversely affected by changes in drainage. Specific Guidelines 1. The size and location of the addition must be appropriate in relation to the existing house and space available on the property. 2. The design and location should consider any adverse impact on neighboring properties that may result through the elimination of privacy or the removal of existing views. 3. Changes in grade or drainage patterns must not adversely affect adjacent properties. If adjacent properties are adversely affected, the applicant responsible for the change is responsible for correction of the drainage problem. 4. The design of the addition should repeat significant architectural elements of the existing house such as roof lines, windows, trim details, materials and colors. 5. The new roof pitch should complement the existing roof pitch and, if possible, match that of the existing roof pitch. 6. New windows and doors are to be the same, or similar, size, type, material, color and quality as those of the existing house. 7. Supplemental landscaping may be required to compensate for the removal of significant vegetation or to provide appropriate screening where necessary. 19

20 Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, property lines and easements, and any accessory structures, significant vegetation; and the location of the proposed addition/alteration. 2. Complete plan and elevation drawings, to scale, showing the existing house and the proposed addition/alteration. 3. Photographs showing the house and the site, marked to show the location of the proposed addition/alteration. 4. A list of all exterior materials and samples of proposed colors. 5. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of items, such as exterior light fixtures, as applicable, including sizes, materials and colors. 6. A landscape plan, as applicable, or required. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Additions/alterations to the original home and Lot must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved or installed Addition/Alteration are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. 20

21 AIR CONDITIONING UNITS/HEAT PUMPS General Considerations The addition of air conditioning units/heat pumps requires review and approval prior to installation. The Committee will not approve applications for the installation of window-mounted air conditioning units or fans. The relocation of exterior central air conditioning units and heat pumps requires approval and will be considered if there is no adverse visual or noise impact upon adjoining properties. Application and approval are not required to replace a heat pump or air conditioning unit in the original location. Specific Guidelines 1. The size and appearance of the proposed air conditioner and heat pump unit must be appropriate for its residential setting. 2. Window-mounted units are prohibited. 3. Through-the-wall units are permitted in single family detached style homes and are to be painted the same color as the wall. 4. Any air conditioner and/or heat pump visible from the street or adjacent property shall require landscape screening or an architectural screen matching the character of the home. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, significant vegetation, property lines, and the location of the proposed air conditioner and/or heat pump. 2. Photographs showing the existing house and property. 3. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the unit including its dimensions and color. 4. Through-the-wall air conditioners require elevation drawings or photos showing the existing house and the proposed unit. 5. If screening is proposed, include drawings indicating dimensions, details, materials and proposed colors. 6. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the proposed type and location of existing or proposed vegetation. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Air conditioning units/heat pumps must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards and the exterior elements must be maintained in their original factory condition. Rust, peeling paint, or damaged elements must be treated, repaired, painted or replaced as necessary to be maintained as originally installed. If changes to a previously approved or installed air conditioning unit/heat pump are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 21

22 ANTENNAS AND SATELLITE DISHES General Considerations Satellite dishes which are larger than one meter in diameter are prohibited. Satellite dishes which are one meter in diameter or less, television antennas and MMDS (multichannel, multipoint distribution) antennas are permitted subject to compliance with Federal Communication Commission regulations for conforming devices. Antennas and satellite dishes are subject to the guidelines below and do not require prior approval from the Covenants Committee. However, Lot Owners are required to provide advance notice to the Association of the proposed installation of a conforming satellite dish or other permissible device at least one week in advance of the actual installation. The notice must include the proposed location of the receiving device on the home or Lot. 1. Location. Devices are not to be installed in the front of the Lot or on the front facade of a residence so long as another location exists on the Lot or residence from which an acceptable quality signal can be received. If a front or side yard location is necessary for a ground mounted satellite dish, the device is to be installed near other utility equipment or among shrubbery. Antenna devices are to be located so as to be as visually unobtrusive as possible, without unreasonably increasing the cost of installation, maintenance and use and without precluding the reception of an acceptable quality signal. Whenever possible, the devices are to be located in the rear yard. If a device must be installed at roof level, it should be situated on the rear side of the roof ridge line, so as to eliminate or minimize its visibility from the front of the home. 2. Screening. To the extent possible, dishes and antennas should be screened with landscaping so that they are not visible either from the street or to other Lot Owners. 3. Color. In order to minimize any adverse visual impact, a device which is affixed to a residence should be painted to match the color of the portion of the house to which it is attached, so long as painting the device will not void the manufacturer s warranty. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Antennas and satellite dishes must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards and the exterior elements must be maintained in their original factory condition. Rust, peeling paint, or damaged elements must be treated, repaired, painted or replaced as necessary to be maintained as originally installed. If changes to a previously approved antenna or satellite dish are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 22

23 ARBORS General Considerations Arbors require review and approval prior to installation. Arbors must be appropriate in scale to the home and colors must be complementary with the natural surroundings and/or the color of the house. Freestanding arbors are to complement the overall composition of the yard. Arbors are to be constructed of high quality materials, and of a style that is similar to or complementary to the existing home. In the cases where redwood, cedar or pressure treated lumber is used, the material may be painted to match the home, left to weather naturally or may be sealed with an appropriate sealer.. The installation of arbors in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for type, location, color, etc. If there are no established standards, the addition of an arbor will not be permitted. Samples of Acceptable Arbors Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, property lines and easements, and any accessory structures, significant vegetation; and the location of the proposed addition/alteration. 2. Complete plan and elevation drawings, to scale, showing the existing house and the proposed addition/alteration. 3. Photographs showing the house and the site, marked to show the location of the proposed addition/alteration. 4. A list of all exterior materials and samples of proposed colors. 5. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of items, as applicable, including sizes, materials and colors. 23

24 Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Arbors must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved Arbor are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. ARTIFICIAL TURF/OUTDOOR CARPETING Indoor/outdoor carpeting and synthetic grass, plants or flowers on any exterior surfaces (for example, front stoops, decks, patios, yards etc.) are prohibited. 24

25 ATTIC VENTILATORS General Considerations The addition of attic ventilators or turbines requires review and approval prior to installation. Devices are to be mounted on the rear side of the roof ridge line if possible so as to minimize their visibility from public areas and adjoining Lots. Attic ventilators must be painted flat black or in a flat finish to match the color of the roof (if roof mounted) or the color of the house siding or trim (if mounted on a gable end). The use of solar powered attic ventilators and turbines is permitted. Generally, no application is required for the replacement of existing approved ventilators of a similar size and appearance in the currently approved location. The installation of attic ventilators in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for type, location, color, etc. Specific Guidelines 1. The size and appearance of proposed attic ventilators must be appropriate for their residential setting. 2. Attic ventilators shall not extend more than 12" above the roof surface. 3. Attic ventilators shall be painted a flat black or a flat finish paint to match the roof color. Gable vents shall be painted the color of the siding or trim in which installed, and ridge vents finished in the same color as the roof. 4. Wall units may be approved provided they are located on side or rear walls and do not adversely affect neighboring properties. 5. Attic ventilators shall be located to the rear of the roof ridge line and/or gable and shall not extend above the highest point of the roof. 6. Rotating or wind-powered turbine ventilators will generally not be approved because of their size and movement. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the ventilator equipment including dimensions and information about its material and color. 2. Drawings or photograph of its proposed location, including the material and color of the surface. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Attic ventilators must be maintained in good order, condition and repair; exterior elements must be maintained in their original factory condition. Rust, peeling paint, or damaged elements must be treated, repaired, painted or replaced as necessary to be maintained as originally installed. If changes to a previously approved attic ventilator are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 25

26 AWNINGS/SUN CONTROL DEVICES General Considerations Sun control achieved through interior window treatments and/or landscaping is preferred to the installation of individual awnings on windows. Effective sun control can often be provided by planting deciduous trees to shade windows from undesired sun exposure. Materials are available for application on inside of windows to reduce thermal transmission and glare and do not need Committee approval as long as installation does not negatively impact the exterior of the home. The addition of a sun control device requires review and approval prior to installation. To be approved, devices must be located on the rear side of the home and must be a color which matches or complements the color of the house siding or trim. Only fabric awnings/or other fabric sun control devices, of one solid color will be approved. Awnings/sun control devices are to be harmonious with the architecture of the house. The style, size, quality and color of the sun control device must be compatible with the architecture of the house. No application is required for the replacement of existing approved awning/sun control devices if the replacement is similar in size, style, quality, material and color to the original. If an awning/sun control device is installed as part of the original construction, or is in attached, replacement awning/sun control device must exactly match the design and color of the originals, and shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder. Specific Guidelines 1. Awnings/sun control devices are prohibited on front or side elevations. The location of any awning/sun control device may not adversely affect views, light, winter sun or natural ventilation of adjacent properties. 2. Sun control devices are to be compatible with the design character of the house in terms of size, style, color, materials and quality. Fabric must be one solid color and no fringes are permitted. 3. Pipe frames and mechanical devices for awnings/sun control devices are to be painted to match trim or dominant color of the house. If awnings/sun control devices are removed for winter storage, frames are to be secured or removed to the extent possible. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the awning including dimensions and information about its material and color. 2. Drawings or photograph of its proposed location, to include the color of the installation surface. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Awnings/sun control devices must be maintained in good order and repair. All exterior elements 26

27 must be maintained in their original factory condition. If changes to a previously approved or installed awning/sun control device are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. BASKETBALL EQUIPMENT -Revised 4/7/2015 General Considerations for Portable Basketball Equipment Portable basketball equipment does not require an application if the following guidelines are met: Specific Guidelines 1. The hoop must be maintained a minimum of fifteen (15) feet from the street located on or adjacent to the driveway. 2. No more than one piece of basketball equipment to include the hoop, net and pole will be permitted on any property. 3. The hoop is located so that basketballs will not fall into the yards of adjoining homes. 4. The configuration of the driveway, distance from the street and proximity of adjoining lots must accommodate these guidelines. 5. Portable basketball goal/hoops systems must be stabilized by filling the base with water or sand according to manufacturer s instructions. No other form of weighting, for example: cinder blocks, bricks, bagged sand, mulch or gravel is acceptable. If the hoop cannot be stabilized following the manufacturer s instructions, it is not suitable for placement in the community setting. Permanent Basketball Equipment 1. Metal poles are to be painted black, brown or left in a galvanized finish; a wood pole is to be painted brown, black, to match the house colors, or left to weather naturally. 2. No building-mounted backboards shall be allowed. 3. The addition of paving material for a playing court also requires review and approval and may require County approval. 4. Due to the proximity of units, the permanent installation of basketball equipment is not permitted in attached housing. For Basketball equipment that does not meet the guidelines above for proper placement requires an application prior to placement. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any accessory structures, fences, significant vegetation, property lines, the proposed location of the basketball backboard and pole. 2. A catalogue photograph or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the backboard and pole, including dimensions, materials, and colors. 27

28 3. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the proposed type and location of vegetation or other screening, existing or proposed. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations In addition to the applicable Property Maintenance Standards, the following specific maintenance requirements apply to basketball equipment; A. Netting must be properly attached to the goal at all times and maintained in original condition. B. Basketball goal/hoop system must be rust and damage free. C. Basketball goal/hoop system must be kept in the upright position. D. Basketball goal/hoop system must be maintained to the manufacturer s original specifications and may not be altered in any way. Basketball backboards may not be attached to the home or garage. Basketball backboards may be erected on permanent poles in the driveways of single-family detached homes and are to be sited such that they are a minimum of fifteen (15) feet from the street and located so that basketballs will not fall into the yards of adjoining homes. The configuration of the driveway, distance from the street and proximity of adjoining lots will be a factor in evaluating an application. The use of basketball equipment is limited to daylight hours. Basketball equipment must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards and the exterior elements must be maintained in their original factory condition. Damaged basketball equipment must be immediately stored out of view of neighboring properties. If changes to previously approved or installed basketball equipment are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 28

29 CHIMNEYS/FLUES General Considerations Chimney and metal flue additions require review and approval prior to installation and are to be planned and designed with the same care as initial construction and are to be visually integrated with the architecture of the house. The design and location must be compatible with the house in style, scale, materials and colors. No application is required for the replacement of existing approved chimneys or flues similar in style, color, materials and quality to the original. If a chimney/flue is installed as part of the original construction, or is in attached housing, the replacement chimney must exactly match the design and color of the original, and shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder. The installation of a new chimney/flue in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards for chimneys/flues established by the builder. In general, chimneys are to be masonry or enclosed in the same material as the exterior of the home. Masonry and stucco-like elevations require masonry, hardi-plank or stucco-like chimney finish materials when visible from the street. Chimneys clad with siding will only be considered for approval in the event that the architectural details on the house warrant this type of treatment. Chimney material is to be designed to cover the entire height of the chimney, except for a direct vent fire place exhaust. Metal flues shall be selected, located and installed so as to minimize their appearance on the house and visibility from neighboring properties and the street. Specific Guidelines 1. An exterior masonry chimney must be constructed to grade and must not be suspended above the ground. A masonry chimney is to be constructed to match stone, brick and/or other masonry materials used elsewhere on the house. 2. Chimneys are to be constructed of materials and colors that match, or are harmonious with, the materials and color of the house. 3. A rooftop metal flue is to be placed on the side least visible from neighboring properties (usually the rear sloping roof), be no higher than the minimum required by the County building code, and be painted flat black or a flat finish paint to match the roof color. 4. Wooden enclosures of flues shall be constructed of the same materials as the house siding, trim and color. 5. Generally, a through-the-wall (direct-vent) metal flue will not be approved on an elevation where it will be visibly obtrusive. Direct-vent metal flues shall be painted with a flat finish, exterior heat-resistant paint of the same color as the wall through which installed or shall meet the project standards as approved by the builder. Any peeling of the metal flue paint will require repainting. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs showing the house and property and the location of the proposed chimney/flue. 29

30 2. Elevation drawings, to scale, to show the addition of the chimney or flue, and the location of windows, doors, overhangs, and other pertinent details. 3. A list of materials and proposed colors. 4. If architectural enclosure of the flue is proposed, a list of all materials and proposed colors. 5. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of rooftop and direct-vent metal flues, associated spark arrestors and other accessories, including dimensions, and color. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Chimneys/flues must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved or installed chimney/flue are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 30

31 CLOTHES LINES/WIND-DRYING DEVICES Clothes lines or any similar apparatus for the exterior drying of clothes are prohibited. COLOR CHANGES General Considerations All exterior color changes must be approved. This requirement applies to siding, doors, shutters, trim, roofing, fencing, sheds and other appurtenant structures. Color and material changes shall be appropriate in appearance and quality to the style and design of the house. Exterior colors are to be selected to enhance the appearance of the house as well as its relationship with surrounding properties and the natural environment. Because color choices are subjective, the Committee will rely upon the color palettes found within the neighborhood as the standard for reviewing proposed color changes. Consideration will be given to contrast, hue, and finish in addition to color. In areas where the builder has established certain requirements or color palettes, changes to the established requirements or color palette will not be permitted. No application is required for repainting/re-staining (or the replacement of siding) with a color/medium that is the same to that which is being replaced. In attached housing and multifamily housing, colors and materials must exactly match those of the original. Specific Guidelines 1. In addition to color changes for existing exterior elements, color schemes for all additions, renovations, modifications and new construction must be submitted for review and approval. 2. Proposed colors and materials must be compatible with other existing or proposed exterior colors and materials on the house, such as roofing, siding, etc. 3. When repainting/re-staining, generally, the entire house (fence, deck, shed or other structure) is to be repainted/re-stained at one time to achieve a uniform finish. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs showing the house and marked to indicate the proposed location of replacement siding if applicable, and all elements proposed for color changes. 2. Where a change in material is proposed, such as the addition of siding or brick, include elevation drawings, to scale, showing the location of all areas proposed to be changed. 3. Identify the manufacturer, material and specific color "name"; and provide chips of all proposed paints or stains keyed to the elements to be finished. 4. Provide pictures or list of colors of all adjacent homes. 31

32 COMPOST BINS General Considerations Compost bins require approval. If a compost bin is desired, the use of a pre-manufactured compost bin, which is earth tone in color, is encouraged. Bins are to be located to the rear of the property and are to be screened from the street, open space, and adjoining or affected neighbors. All active compost must be treated at all times to prevent odors from escaping. The Committee s approval of a compost bin shall be conditioned upon the Lot owner s proper continuing maintenance of the bin. Said approval may be revoked by the Committee if ongoing maintenance is judged deficient. If approval is revoked, the compost bin and associated screening must be removed and the area returned to its original condition. Compost bins are to be selected and located so as to minimize their impact on adjacent neighbors. The location chosen is to be as far as possible from neighboring properties, streets, and shall take advantage of screening provided by existing or proposed structures and/or vegetation. Compost bins attract rodents and insects; care must be taken to avoid these situations. Only controlled compost structures will be considered. Specific Guidelines 1. The preferred location is in the rear yard, or the side yard which is not facing a street; compost bins are prohibited in front yards and in street facing side yards. 2. No more than one bin will be permitted on any property. 3. The size of a compact compost bin is limited to 4' in height and 4' x 8' in dimension. 4. The bin is to be self-contained, sturdily constructed of durable wood, plastic, or metal, and finished in a muted color or left to weather naturally (if wood). 5. If visible from neighboring properties, the bin must be screened by fencing or vegetation. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, any accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the location of the proposed compost bin. 2. If pre-made, include a catalogue photograph or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the compost bin, including dimensions, material, and color. 3. If constructed, include a plan and elevation drawing(s) identifying dimensions, material, and color. 4. Where applicable, provide a plan indicating the proposed type and location of vegetation or other screening, existing or proposed. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations The compost bin is to be maintained so that it does not create a visual or environmental nuisance. Compost bins must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property 32

33 Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved or installed compost bin are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 33

34 DECKS General Considerations ALL decks must be approved by the Covenants Committee. Except where specific requirements imposed by Brambleton s builders exist, decks must conform to the following Design Guidelines. There are several housing types which have specific Design Guidelines and the Covenants Committee will not knowingly approve an application which is contrary to the specific builderimposed requirements applicable to the housing type. In all cases, specific builder requirements, and any specific Design Guidelines take precedence over the general guidelines. Please see below and the Appendices of this document for additional detailed information. Section 12 Section 18 Section 22 Town homes for the Lots that back to North Star Blvd: Decks are builder-installed and must be maintained in the same style and color to maintain visual and architectural consistency. Decks for the Miller & Smith homes in this section which back to open space must be constructed and maintained to match, in all regards, the builder specifications. Miller & Smith homes in this section were provided the option to add decks, or screened/open porches as builder options. However, if an owner applies to install any of these elements after the purchase of the home, the improvement must match, in all regards the builder-installed decks to maintain visual and architectural consistency. Please see Appendix IV for detailed specifications. In general, a deck shall be an appropriate size for the area in which it is to be located, with consideration for its physical and visual impact on adjacent properties. It shall be harmonious in configuration, detail, material, and color, with the architecture of the home and adjacent homes, and must be constructed in compliance with all applicable building and zoning regulations. Elevated and ground level decks are an extension of the house which can affect both the exterior appearance of the house and the privacy of adjoining homes. Drawings submitted with the application are not required to be professionally prepared (although professional drawings are advised), but they must be to scale and show dimensions. Any adverse drainage consequences which may result from the construction of a deck must be considered and remedied. Approval will be denied if the Covenants Committee determines that adjoining properties are adversely affected by changes in drainage. Any drainage problems which result from a modification are the responsibility of the Lot Owner who makes the modification, 34

35 irrespective of approval by the Covenants Committee. The following factors will be considered in the review of applications. 1. Location. Decks are to be located in rear yards. Side yard locations will generally not be approved, but may be considered when Lot size or topography prohibits a rear yard location. 2. Scale and Style. Decks, particularly elevated decks, are to be of a scale which is compatible with the home to which attached, and with adjacent homes and the environmental surroundings. Decks must meet Loudoun County minimum setback requirements and may not be constructed across building restriction lines shown on official record plats for Lots. Townhome decks must be set in a minimum of six (6) inches from the side plane of the home on both sides of the deck. 3. Materials. Wood decks are to be constructed of high quality pressure-treated wood (#2 southern yellow pine or better for structural members and #1 or better for deck railing and stair stringers) or cedar, which remains stable in exterior applications. White vinyl or decorative metal may be used for deck railing components and other structure components. Composite materials may be used for deck flooring, railing, stairs and rail caps. 4. Railing Detail. Deck railings may include decorative design elements (i.e., sunbursts, starbursts, Chippendale) so long as the total design scheme is appropriate. 5. Accessory Structural Elements. In order to enhance the deck as an extension of a home s living space, decks may be designed to include such features as a gazebo, bench-seating areas, built-in planter boxes, elevated shade trellises, plant hangers and privacy screening. Privacy screens must not exceed three feet in height above the level of the deck railing, or a total height of six feet above the level of the deck floor. In cases of a ground level deck where the privacy screen is appended to the rear side of the railing or extends the full height above the deck floor with appropriate structural support. Privacy screens must be lattice or other open design solid privacy screens are prohibited. In addition, privacy screens must not exceed a total length which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the total perimeter of the deck (excluding the length of the side which is bordered by the exterior wall of the home. 6. Undercroft Screening. a. Decks which are not greater than four feet above grade, as measured from the lowest point of grade at any point of the perimeter of the deck, to the lowest horizontal support, must use lattice or landscape materials to screen the undercroft area. Lattice must be painted or stained to comply with the color guidelines below. Lattice may be vinyl where vinyl material is used for the deck railing components. b. Decks which are greater than four feet above grade, as measured from grade to the lowest horizontal support, may not use lattice to screen the undercroft area. 7. Under-deck Storage. Storage of any items below a deck is prohibited; except for the following two options; for an elevated deck, a storage shed which conforms to the Design 35

36 Guidelines may be constructed below the floor of an elevated deck and must directly abut the exterior wall of the home; and, for a deck which is not greater than four feet from grade, as measured from grade to the lowest horizontal support, lattice must be used to screen items stored under the deck. No items stored under the deck should be visible from the property line. 8. Color. Decks may be stained, sealed with a clear preservative, painted with a solid color to match the trim of the home, or left to age naturally. If stained, the stain must be a transparent wood color. Opaque stains are not permitted. A stain color sample must be included with the application and requires approval of the Covenants Committee. Modifications or additions to an existing deck must incorporate the same quality, materials, colors and detailing as the approved existing deck. Specific Guidelines 1. Stairs are to be parallel or perpendicular to the edge of the deck or be set immediately adjacent to the deck. 2. In general, decking and any stairs may not project into the side yards beyond the side plane of the home. The Committee will consider extenuating circumstances where the size of the rear yard is constricted by the configuration of the home/lot. 3. A solid trim board shall be provided on any open side of the deck to conceal the joists and cut ends of the decking. Trim board must be complementary to the overall style of the deck, and match the dominant color of the deck. 4. Decks are to be constructed in such a way that visible cross braces are not required. 5. Changes in grade or drainage pattern must not adversely affect adjoining properties. Drainage issues created after construction will be the responsibility of and shall be corrected by the Lot Owner that initiated construction. 6. If the design and location of a proposed deck require removal of an existing tree, replacement is encouraged. Supplemental landscaping may be required to compensate for the removal of significant vegetation or to provide appropriate screening where necessary. 7. For enclosed upper level decks, see the design guidelines for porches/screened porches and sunrooms/greenhouses. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, property lines and easements, including significant vegetation, existing patios and decks, fencing, accessory structures, and the location of the proposed deck. 2. Current photographs showing the existing house and yard marked to show the location of the proposed deck. 3. A plan, to scale and dimension, showing the house and the proposed deck. 4. For elevated decks, provide elevation drawings, to scale, showing the house and the proposed deck, including the height above grade, stairs and any other proposed elements. 5. Detailed drawings, including height and other dimensions of railings and any benches, planters, privacy screens, arbors, trellises, etc. 36

37 6. Samples of proposed colors of composite material or stain, if other than pressure-treated wood. 7. A landscape plan, as applicable. A. Ground-Level Deck: Detached Home A ground-level deck is thirty (30") inches or less in elevation from the ground at any point. Loudoun County Code specifies that ground-level decks may have, but do not require, handrails. However, handrails are required for elevated decks that are thirty (30") inches or more at the highest point above grade. Handrail height (measured from deck floor) shall be between thirty-six (36") inches and forty-two (42") inches. An application is required for all decks. 1. All decks, including their rails, landings and supporting posts, may be constructed of cedar, redwood, pressure-treated lumber or wood-colored composite materials or white vinyl of high quality. Railings may be constructed of cedar, redwood, pressure-treated lumber, wood-colored composite materials, or white vinyl of high quality or decorative metal. Wooden portions of the deck and railing may be left natural, stained with a transparent wood color, or be painted to match the trim on the house. Opaque stains are not permitted. Stain color samples must be included with the application and requires approval of the Covenants Committee. 2. Railing pickets must be 2" x 2" vertical members. Patterns (e.g. sunburst, starburst, Chippendale) are permitted as accents. The number and locations of the patterns shall be denoted on the application. Decorative metal pickets may also be considered. 3. Privacy screens: a. Privacy screens must be lattice or other open design solid privacy screens are prohibited. b. Privacy screens must not exceed three feet (3') in height above the level of the deck railing, or a total height of six feet (6') above the level of the deck floor, in cases of a ground level deck where the privacy screen is appended to the rear side of the railing or extends the full height above the deck floor with appropriate structural support. c. Privacy screens must be framed (Figure 1) in order to have a finished appearance. d. Privacy screens must be constructed only of cedar, redwood or pressure-treated lumber, or white vinyl of high quality of framed construction and must match the material and color of the deck railing. e. Privacy screens must not exceed a total length which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the total perimeter of the deck (excluding the length of the side which is bordered by the exterior wall of the home). 4. Benches, flower boxes, trellises, arbors, lighting, etc., may be designed as a part of the deck and such details shall be included on the application. 37

38 5. Arbors, trellis or pergola elements must be no taller than three feet (3') above the deck rail, with a total railing and privacy screen height no greater than six feet (6') above the deck floor. 6. Roofed areas must use the same shingles, gutters, soffit, and trim materials as the existing home. 7. All vertical surfaces (railings, privacy screens, arbors, trellises, etc.) are to be constructed of the same material and color. 8. Stairs: a. Stairs and incorporated landings may extend a maximum of five feet (5 ) beyond the deck depth. Stairs must be located within the maximum approved deck width. b. Stairs may also be approved in an L-shaped configuration where they are parallel to both the side and rear of the deck. 9. Decks must be set back from the property lines in accordance with County building restriction lines or ordinances. 10. Any area under the deck used as storage will require lattice screening. Under-deck screening must be compatible with the architecture of the house and deck. All lattice screening must be framed and recessed between the deck posts (Figures 1 and 2) in order to have a finished appearance. The use of landscaping to minimize adverse, visual impact is encouraged and may be required by the Covenants Committee. Figure 1 - Framed Privacy Screening Figure 2 - Framed Undercroft Screening Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Decks must be maintained to the highest standards in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. All elements must be kept in good condition and repair. Painted or stained surfaces are to be maintained with a uniform finish. Repairs are to be made promptly. If changes to previously approved or installed decks are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 38

39 Ground Level Decks: Attached Townhomes: A ground-level deck is thirty (30") inches or less in elevation from the ground at any point. Loudoun County Code specifies that ground-level decks may have, but do not require, handrails. However, handrails are required for elevated decks that are thirty (30") inches or more at the highest point above grade. Handrail height (measured from deck floor) shall be between thirty-six (36") inches and forty-two (42") inches. An application is required for all decks. 1. All decks, including their rails, landings and supporting posts may be constructed of cedar, redwood, pressure-treated lumber, or wood-colored composite materials or white vinyl of high quality. Railings may be constructed of cedar, redwood, pressure-treated lumber, wood-colored composite materials, or white vinyl of high quality or decorative metal. Wooden portions of the deck and railing may be left natural, stained with a transparent wood color, or be painted to match the trim on the house. Opaque stains are not permitted. A stain color sample must be included with the application and requires approval of the Covenants Committee. 2. Railing pickets must be 2" x 2" vertical members. Patterns (e.g. sunburst, starburst, Chippendale) are permitted as accents. The number and locations of the patterns shall be denoted on the application. Decorative metal pickets may also be considered. 3. Attached home decks must be set in a minimum of six (6) inches from the side plane of the home on both sides of the deck. 4. Decks must be set back from the rear property line in accordance with County building restriction lines or ordinances. 5. Privacy screens: a. Privacy screens must be lattice or other open design solid privacy screens are prohibited. b. Privacy screens must not exceed 3 feet (3') in height above the level of the deck railing, or a total height of six feet (6') above the level of the deck floor, in cases of a ground level deck where the privacy screen is appended to the rear side of the railing or extends the full height above the deck floor with appropriate structural support. c. Privacy screens must be framed (Figure 1) in order to have a finished appearance. d. Privacy screens must be constructed only of cedar, redwood or pressure-treated lumber, or white vinyl of high quality of framed construction and must match the material and color of the deck railing. e. Privacy screens must not exceed a total length which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the total perimeter of the deck (excluding the length of the side which is bordered by the exterior wall of the home). 6. Benches, flower boxes, trellises, arbors, lighting, etc., may be designed as part of the deck and the details of any such built-in elements are to be included on the application. 39

40 7. Arbors, trellis or pergola elements must be no taller than three feet (3') above the deck rail, with a total railing and privacy screen height no greater than six feed (6') above the deck floor. 8. Roofed areas must use the same shingles, gutters, soffit, and trim materials as the existing home. 9. All vertical surfaces (railings, privacy screens, arbors, trellises, etc.) are to be constructed of the same material and color. 10. Stairs: a. Stairs and incorporated landings may extend a maximum of five feet (5) beyond the deck depth. Stairs must be located within the maximum approved deck width. b. Stairs may also be approved in an L-shaped configuration where they are parallel to both the side and rear of the deck. 11. Any area under the deck used as storage, will require lattice screening. Under-deck screening must be compatible with the architecture of the house and deck. All lattice screening must be framed and recessed between the deck posts (Figures 1 and 2) in order to have a finished appearance. The use of landscaping to minimize adverse visual impact is encouraged and may be required by the Covenants Committee. (Figures 2 & 3) Figure 1 - Framed Privacy Screening Figure 2 - Framed Undercroft Screening Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Decks must be maintained to the highest standards in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. All elements must be kept in good condition and repair. Painted or stained surfaces are to be maintained with a uniform finish. Repairs are to be made promptly. If changes to previously approved or installed decks are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 40

41 B. Elevated Decks: Detached Home 1. All decks, including their rails, landings and supporting posts may be constructed of cedar, redwood, pressure-treated lumber, or wood- colored composite materials or white vinyl of high quality. Railings may be constructed of cedar, redwood, pressuretreated lumber, wood-colored composite materials, white vinyl of high quality, or decorative metal. Wooden portions of the deck and railing may be left natural, stained with a transparent wood color, or be painted to match the trim on the house. Opaque stains are not permitted. A stain color sample must be included with the application and requires approval by the Covenants Committee. 2. Railing pickets must be 2" x 2" vertical members. Patterns (e.g. sunburst, starburst, Chippendale) are permitted as accents. The number and locations of the patterns shall be denoted on the application. Decorative metal pickets may also be considered. 3. Privacy screens: a. Privacy screens must be lattice or other open design solid privacy screens are prohibited. b. Privacy screens must not exceed 3 feet (3') in height above the level of the deck railing, or a total height of six feet (6') above the level of the deck floor, in cases of a ground level deck where the privacy screen is appended to the rear side of the railing or extends the full height above the deck floor with appropriate structural support. c. Privacy screens must be framed. (Figure 1) d. Privacy screens must be constructed only of cedar, redwood or pressure-treated lumber, (no wood-colored composite material?) or white vinyl of high quality of framed construction and must match the material and color of the deck railing. e. Privacy screens must not exceed a total length which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the total perimeter of the deck (excluding the length of the side which is bordered by the exterior wall of the home). 4. Benches, flower boxes, trellises, arbors, lighting, etc., may be designed as a part of the deck and the details included on the application. 5. Arbors, trellis or pergola elements must be no taller than three feet (3) above the deck rail, with a total railing and privacy screen height no greater than six feet (6) above the deck floor. 6. Roofed areas must use the same shingles, gutters, soffit, and trim materials as the existing home. 7. All vertical surfaces (railings, privacy screens, arbors, trellises, etc.) are to be constructed of the same material and color. 8. Stairs: a. Stairs and incorporated landings may extend a maximum of five feet (5 ) beyond the deck depth. Stairs must be located within the maximum approved deck width. 41

42 b. Stairs may also be approved in an L-shaped configuration where they are parallel to both the side and rear of the deck. 9. Decks must be set back from the property lines in accordance with County building restriction lines or ordinances. 10. Under-deck Storage. The open storage of any items beneath a deck is prohibited; under an elevated deck, storage must be within an approved storage shed which conforms to the Design Guidelines which may be constructed below the floor of an elevated deck and must directly abut the exterior wall of the home. Figure 1 - Framed Privacy Screening Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Decks must be maintained to the highest standards in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. All elements must be kept in good condition and repair. Painted or stained surfaces are to be maintained with a uniform finish. Repairs are to be made promptly. If changes to previously approved or installed decks are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. Elevated Decks: Attached Townhome: 1. All decks, including their rails, landings and supporting posts may be constructed of cedar, redwood, pressure-treated lumber, or wood-colored composite materials or white vinyl of high quality. Railings may be constructed of cedar, redwood, pressure-treated lumber, wood-colored composite materials, white vinyl of high quality, or decorative metal. Wooden portions of the deck and railing may be left natural, stained with a transparent wood color, or be painted to match the trim on the house. Opaque stains are not permitted. A stain color sample must be included with the application and requires approval by the Covenants Committee. 2. Railing pickets must be 2" x 2" vertical members. Patterns (e.g. sunburst, starburst, Chippendale) are permitted as accents. The number and locations of the patterns shall be denoted on the application. Decorative metal pickets may also be considered. 42

43 3. Attached home decks must be set a minimum of six inches (6") from the side plane of the home on both sides of the deck. 4. Decks must be set back from the rear property line in accordance with County building restriction lines or ordinances. 5. Privacy screens: a. Privacy screens must be lattice or other open design solid privacy screens are prohibited. b. Privacy screens must not exceed 3 feet (3') in height above the level of the deck railing, or a total height of six feet (6') above the level of the deck floor, in cases of a ground level deck where the privacy screen is appended to the rear side of the railing or extends the full height above the deck floor with appropriate structural support. c. Privacy screens must be framed (Figure 1) in order to have a finished appearance. d. Privacy screens must be constructed only of cedar, redwood, pressure-treated lumber (no wood-colored composite material?), or white vinyl of high quality of framed construction and must match the material and color of the deck railing. e. Privacy screens must not exceed a total length which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the total perimeter of the deck (excluding the length of the side which is bordered by the exterior wall of the home). 6. Benches, flower boxes, trellises, arbors, lighting, etc., may be designed as a part of the deck and the details of any built-in elements are to be included on the application. 7. Arbors, trellis or pergola elements must be no taller than three feet (3') above the deck rail, with a total railing and privacy screen height no greater than six feet (6') above the deck floor. 8. Roofed areas must use the same shingles, gutters, soffit, and trim materials as the existing home. 9. All vertical surfaces (railings, privacy screens, arbors, trellises, etc.) are to be constructed of the same material and color. 10. Stairs: a. Stairs and incorporated landings may extend a maximum of five feet (5 )) beyond the deck depth. Stairs must be located within the maximum approved deck width. b. Stairs may also be approved in an L-shaped configuration where they are parallel to both the side and rear of the deck. 11. Under-deck Storage. The open storage of any items below a deck is prohibited; under an elevated deck, storage must be within an approved storage shed which conforms to the 43

44 Design Guidelines which may be constructed below the floor of an elevated deck and must directly abut the exterior wall of the home. Figure 1 - Framed Privacy Screening Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Decks must be maintained to the highest standards in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. All elements must be kept in good condition and repair. Painted or stained surfaces are to be maintained with a uniform finish. Repairs are to be made promptly. If changes to previously approved or installed decks are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. DOG HOUSES AND DOG RUNS All dog houses and dog runs are prohibited. 44

45 DOORS General Considerations New or additional doors require review and approval prior to installation. Doors shall be compatible in style with the architecture of the house. Doors shall be of quality material and workmanship, and shall be consistent in proportion, detailing and style. The style, material, color, detailing and installation of a new or replacement door must be consistent with that of existing doors. No application is required for the replacement of an existing door or storm/screen door, provided that the replacement is similar in material, type, quality, style and color. The addition/replacement of doors, including storm/screen doors, in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for type, style, location, color, etc. In the absence of defined project standards the following guidelines shall apply. Door Additions/Replacements Specific Guidelines 1. Doors and doorframes must be clad or painted with a color consistent with other doors, windows and house colors. Color shall comply with the guidelines found under the heading for Color Changes. 2. Wood doors must be protected with stain or paint to prevent an uneven weathered appearance. In attached housing, doors must be maintained with the builder established finish. 3. The style, material, color, quality and details must match or be complementary to the existing doors on the home and adjacent homes. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs showing the house, existing windows and doors and the proposed location of new and/or replacement doors. 2. Where a new door is proposed, elevation drawings, to scale, to show the existing house and the proposed location of the doors. 3. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" identifying door type and style, including the specific 'name' of the door, if applicable; and dimensions, materials and colors. 4. A sample of the door finish and color, if applicable. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations All doors must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved or installed door are desired, a new 45

46 Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. Storm/Screen Doors Full-view storm doors, defined as doors where the glass covers at least 80 percent of the door surface, are required. Provided that this criterion is met, there is latitude for a number of door styles. Approved door styles are illustrated in Appendix III. Doors must be painted the same color as the unit entry door or the trim. The glass must be clear. Colored or tinted glass is prohibited. Installation of pre-approved doors which conform to the door styles in Appendix III does not require application and approval. The proposed installation of a door which is not preapproved requires an application. Specific Guidelines 1. Storm/screen doors must be "full-view" and approvable styles can be found in Appendix III and do not require approval. 2. Doors must be painted the same color as the unit entry door or the trim. 3. New or replacement doors are to match the type, style, material, quality and color of existing door. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs showing the house, existing windows and doors and the proposed location of new and/or replacement doors. 2. Where a new door is proposed, elevation drawings, to scale, to show the existing house and the proposed location of the doors. 3. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" identifying door type and style, including the specific 'name' of the door, if applicable; and dimensions, materials and colors. 4. A sample of the door finish and color, if applicable. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations All doors must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved or installed door are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 46

47 Garage Doors General Considerations As a matter of courtesy to your neighbors, garage doors are to be left in a fully closed position when the garage is not being accessed. Using a garage as an obvious pet confinement area (leaving garage doors partially open with or without screening) is not permitted. Garages may not be converted to living space or altered or used for purposes which would prevent the use of the garage for the parking of the intended number of vehicles for which it was constructed. Specific Guidelines Detached Homes Garage doors on single family detached homes must be of a style and color compatible and complementary with the style of the home and the existing colors on the applicant s home. Any change in color, style or material requires approval. Attached Garage doors on attached homes (other than single-façade townhomes) must be of the style, color, material and quality as originally installed by the builder. The addition/replacement of doors, including garage doors, in attached homes shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder. In the absence of defined project standards the general Specific Guidelines for garage doors shall apply. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs showing the house, the existing garage door and/or replacement doors. 2. Where a change in style is proposed, elevation drawings, to scale, to show the existing house/garage and the proposed style of the door. 3. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" identifying door type and style, including the specific 'name' of the door, if applicable; and dimensions, materials and colors. 4. A sample of the door finish and color, if applicable. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations All garage doors must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved or installed garage door are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 47

48 DRAINS/FRENCH DRAINS The installation of drains/french drains requires review and approval prior to the start of work. Applications for exterior modifications which may affect drainage must include plans to mitigate any negative impact. Any addition of drainage elements or change to existing drainage systems or measures requires review and approval prior to installation. Drains must be located in such a manner as to not adversely affect drainage onto neighboring properties, streets, sidewalks or Common Areas. Black tubing used for additional drainage purposes must be buried underground and directed away from adjacent properties. No above ground drainage extensions are permitted and extensions must be buried in such a manner to adequately manage runoff, according to correct engineering practices and relevant codes. The use of gravel as a ground cover is not permitted; however, limited use of natural stone gravel will be considered to mitigate drainage concerns. Pea gravel and chipped rock are not permitted materials. Natural colored, medium sized river rock or other natural materials are preferred. Alternative materials may be considered. Specific Guidelines 1. Downspout extensions, including underground drainpipe, French drains, or modifications to existing drainage must not detrimentally affect any adjacent property. 2. Water flow from downspout extensions must terminate within the applicant s property. 3. Water flow from downspouts or extensions may not be directed onto neighboring property, common areas, streets or sidewalks. 4. Any negative impact to designed drainage must be remedied by the applicant. Submission Requirements 1. Drawings or photographs of the house marked to show the locations of the proposed gutters and downspouts. 2. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" showing their profile, dimensions and color. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Drainage elements must be maintained in good working order, condition and repair and any negative impact to designed drainage must be remedied by the owner of the property from which the negative condition originates. 48

49 DRIVEWAYS/PARKING PADS General Considerations Extensions, modifications or additions to driveways require review and approval prior to installation and will be considered only if there is no adverse aesthetic or drainage impact on adjoining Lots. Driveway extensions must be of a size and scale which will complement the property, rather than become a focal point. Extended driveways may not be used for parking inoperable, commercial, recreational or unused vehicles. The sealing and proper maintenance of driveways is required. The widening, extension or addition of driveways, turnarounds and parking pads shall be consistent with the overall image and character of the community. They shall be located and designed to minimize their visual and acoustical impact on neighboring properties. In general, the size of the driveway and related parking pad shall be appropriate for the size of the property on which it is located. It is to be constructed on natural grade using a material that is consistent with other driveways and parking pads in the neighborhood. Additions/alterations to existing driveways/parking pads are to incorporate the same material, color and detailing as the original driveway/parking pad and shall be submitted for review and approval. The use of upgraded materials such as pavers or natural stone is encouraged. Approval is not required for the replacement of an existing, approved driveway/parking pad. Due to the proximity of units, the addition/alteration of driveways/parking pads is prohibited in attached housing. Specific Guidelines 1. Design and location must be considered with care to minimize the removal of trees and other significant vegetation. 2. Changes in grade or drainage pattern must not adversely affect adjoining properties. If an adjacent property is adversely affected, the owner of the driveway/parking pad is responsible for correction. 3. Generally, more than one driveway will not be approved on any one property. 4. Driveway access from the street is to be easy and direct. Maximum grade is to be designed to relate to the length of the driveway and generally should not exceed 12% or that of the existing length. 5. Driveways shall only connect to the street where curb cuts have been provided. No curb cut extensions are permitted. 6. Typically, an addition or modification to a driveway or parking area in the rear yard will only be considered for Lots on which a rear driveway/parking pad already exists. 7. Driveways and parking pads must be constructed of asphalt, concrete, or other approved special paving. Loose gravel and unpaved driveways and/or parking pads are prohibited. 8. Landscaping may be required to compensate for the removal of vegetation and to screen the driveway/parking pad. 49

50 Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, property lines and easements, existing driveways/parking pads, significant vegetation, fencing, accessory structures, and the location of the proposed driveway and/or parking pad. 2. Photographs showing the location of the proposed driveway/parking pad. 3. If grading is involved, a plan showing the change in grade and any planned retaining walls will be required. 4. A description of the proposed paving materials. 5. A landscape plan showing proposed plantings, as applicable. 6. Approved plans from Loudoun County. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Driveways/parking pads must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. Weeds are to be removed and if necessary, appropriate materials applied to prevent future weeds. Asphalt driveways are to be maintained by crack sealing and the regular application of seal coat. If changes to a previously approved or installed driveway or parking pad are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 50

51 EXTERIOR DECORATIVE OBJECTS General Considerations Approval will be required for all exterior decorative objects exceeding twelve (12) inches in height or eighteen (18) inches in width or depth, or in quantities greater than two (2), whether natural or man-made, which were not part of the original construction design (as either a standard or optional feature). The preferred location for decorative objects is in the rear yard and these items are generally not permitted in front yards or in side yards that face onto a street. Decorative objects may not be placed in a manner which blocks access or egress to driveways, garages, lead walkways or front entrances. Examples include but are not limited to: bird houses, bird baths, driftwood, weather vanes, sculptures, and fountains, free standing poles of all types, house address numerals, and any items attached to approved structures. Furniture designed for outdoor use which is placed on a front porch, patio, deck, or within a rear yard, does not require an application. Outdoor furniture which is placed elsewhere on a Lot requires an application. The preferred location for outdoor furniture is on the porch, patio, deck, or within a rear yard, and these items are generally not permitted in front or side yards. Outdoor furniture may not be placed on sidewalks. Applications for exterior decorative objects will be evaluated in terms of the objects' general appropriateness, size, location, compatibility with architectural and environmental design qualities and visual impact on the neighborhood and the surrounding area. Decorative flags may be displayed and do not require approval if the flagstaff complies with the Design Guidelines. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, any accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the location of the proposed exterior decorative object(s). Elevation drawing(s) identifying dimension. 2. Photograph or drawing of the exterior decorative object(s), including dimensions, material, and color. 3. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the proposed type and location of vegetation or other screening, existing or proposed. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Exterior decorative objects must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to any previously approved or installed exterior decorative object are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 51

52 EXTERIOR LIGHTING -Revised 4/7/2015 General Considerations Lighting which is part of the original structure or Lot may not be altered without prior approval of the Covenants Committee. Proposed replacement or additional fixtures must be compatible in style and scale with the applicant's house. Exterior light fixtures for attached homes must be maintained in the original style, material, quality and color as originally provided by the builder. No application is required for the replacement of an existing and or an approved lighting fixture with an exact match or one that is substantially the same in quality, type, size and appearance. Except as detailed below, applications are required for replacement or additional exterior lighting. Applications are to include the wattage, height of the fixture above ground, location on the property (shown on a plat map for the lot) and a description of the fixture(s) and/or a photograph or cut sheet from a catalogue. Exterior lighting, including motion sensors, flood lights and entrance lights shall be directed downward and not outside or off of the applicant's property. Proposed additional lighting shall not be approved if it will result in an adverse visual impact to adjoining neighbors because of location, wattage or other features. Specific Guidelines 1. Lighting must be a "white" color such as incandescent, metal halide, mercury vapor, etc. Color-corrected ''white" high-pressure sodium may be considered on a case-bycase basis. High-pressure sodium vapor (yellow-orange) lights or fluorescent bulbs with blue- tint are specifically prohibited because of their poor color rendition, glare, and contrast with the "white" lighting in the neighborhood. 2. A new or replacement light fixture is to be either an exact match or compatible in style, design, size, color, finish, type, quality and lamp wattage with the original or approved fixture it is replacing. 3. Security lighting such as spotlights or floodlights are to be selected and located so as to minimize its impact on neighboring properties. Zero (0) foot-candles at property line is the required standard. Fixtures are to be shielded and mounted under or immediately below the eaves. 4. Security light fixtures (floodlights) will not be approved as replacements for decorative post lamps or fixtures at entry doors. 5. Ground or tree mounted floodlights must have deep shields to effectively screen the light source from view and they are to be carefully directed so that no glare impacts adjacent properties. 6. Exterior light fixtures are to be "hard-wired" so that there is no visible wiring or conduit. 7. Holiday Lights shall be displayed no earlier than thirty (30) days before the holiday and removed no later than 14 days thereafter. See the guidelines found under the heading Holiday Lighting for more detail. 52

53 8. Lighting cannot exceed the property line. County standards should be consulted. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any accessory structures, driveway, sidewalk, fencing, significant vegetation, property lines, easements, and the location of the existing and proposed (new or replacement) lighting. 2. Photographs showing the house and site marked with the locations of all proposed lighting. 3. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of lighting fixtures, including dimensions, wattage, type of lamp, finish and color. 4. Drawings describing custom fixtures, where applicable. No application is required for: 1. Low voltage landscape lighting located along a walkway or among shrubbery as long as it does not distract from the overall appearance of the home. Such lighting is permitted to shine upward. The use of landscape lights with built in solar panels are approvable fixtures as long as the number is in scale with the dimensions of the landscaping bed they are lining and they are maintained in keeping with Brambleton s Property Maintenance Standards. 2. Café Lights attached to deck railings on attached homes. Café lights are defined as ambient lighting, used for outdoor use. Permitted uses are to decorate and illuminate deck railings or umbrella ribs. Specific Guidelines 1. Used for outdoor use 2. Have two (2) inch clear or frosted glass globes 3. The Made string must match the railing color 4. The lights must be securely and invisibly attached Individual property lighting in attached housing shall be in strict accordance with approved project standards established by the builder. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations All exterior lighting must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. In Brambleton, most properties are conveyed by the builders with exterior lighting which is designed to operate automatically from dusk to dawn. Residents are required to ensure the daily operation of these fixtures and the mode of automatic operation may not be changed. If the light fixture is not restored to operation after replacing the bulbs, some suggestions to consider are: 53

54 - Reset the associated GFI switch (es); check the electrical breaker. - Consider replacing the photocell sensor. - Check with neighbors or your builder s warranty group for other recommendations or seek assistance from a professional electrician. If changes to previously approved or installed exterior lighting are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 54

55 FENCES General Considerations ALL fences must be approved by the Covenants Committee prior to installation and must conform to the Design Guidelines. ALERT RESIDENTS ARE REMINDED TO CALL MISS BEFORE ANY DIGGING PROJECT There are several housing types and sections/builders which have specific Design Guidelines. The Covenants Committee will not knowingly approve an application which deviates from the specific Design Guidelines applicable to the housing type or section/builder. In all cases, contractual builder requirements or the specific Design Guidelines take precedence over the general guidelines. Please see below and the Appendices for additional detailed information. Fences for attached homes have additional specific requirements. Fences for attached homes must be installed with the finished side out; must match in all regards the builder-installed privacy divider between homes and cannot extend forward of the rear plane of the home. Specific guidelines apply to fencing on corner Lots. In all cases, sight distance easements or such other easements and/or conditions applicable to the subject Lot shall be observed. There are alternatives to fencing that may achieve the desired objectives. Use of plant materials alone can be an alternative or planting schemes can be integrated with fencing to soften the visual impact. Supplementary landscape planting may be required for approval of some fence applications. Landscaping plans must include consideration for the full growth of plantings; all plant materials must be sited so that at maturity, all plant materials are entirely within the applicant s property. An application is required for all fencing, including deciduous and evergreen plant materials that create a barrier. Use of plant materials alone can be an alternative or planting schemes can be integrated with fencing to soften the visual impact. Evergreen plant materials used for privacy screening are to be maintained to a height of feet. The following evergreen plants are suggested: Burning Bush, Dwarf Buford Holly, Foster Holly, Maiden Grass, Common Nandina, Skip Laurel, Hicks Yew and Ebbingei Elaeagnus. 1. Double-line fencing is not permitted, i.e. two fences sharing the same property line. 2. Any change in color requires and review and approval by the Covenants Committee prior to initiating work. 3. When applicable, fencing must be constructed with the finished side facing out. 4. Gates shall match the design, material, color and construction of the fence. 5. Fence location and design must be considered with care to avoid removing existing street trees or significant vegetation. 55

56 6. All fences must be well-designed, well-constructed and compatible with the architectural style of the home. 7. Chain link fence (including vinyl-covered) shall not be allowed for residential Lots. Section Specific Requirements: Section 3, 14 & 15 Fences for single-family detached homes in this section (Miller and Smith Homes) must match, in all regards, the requirements detailed in Appendix II-D. Sections 7, 8 & 9 Fences for single-family detached homes (Stanley Martin Homes) detailed below must be constructed of white vinyl and conform to one of the standard fence styles for singlefamily detached homes. Fences cannot extend into any ingress/egress easement shown on an official record plat or plat map. Section 15 Section 7; Lots and Section 8; Lots and Section 9; Lots 53, 71 74, Section 18 Fences for single-family detached and attached City Home townhomes in this section (Miller and Smith Homes) must match, in all regards, the requirements detailed in Appendix II-D. Fences for attached City Home townhomes must not encroach into the five-foot yard access easement at the rear of the Lot. Fences for Miller & Smith homes in this section must be constructed and maintained to match, in all regards, Appendix II-D (2). Fences in this Section must be left to age naturally and no paint, stain or preservative may be applied. Builder Specific Requirements: Gulick Group Fences for single-family detached homes built by Gulick Group Inc. must be constructed to match, in all regards, Appendix II-C. Stanley Martin Homes Fences for single-family detached homes (Stanley Martin Homes) detailed below must be constructed of white vinyl and conform to one of the standard fence styles for single- 56

57 Miller & Smith family detached homes. Fences cannot extend into any ingress/egress easement shown on an official record plat or plat map. Section 7; Lots and Section 8; Lots and Section 9; Lots 53, 71 74, For all other Lots, not detailed above or subject to contractual builder specifications, fence styles Appendix IIA-C are permitted. Fences for single family detached homes built by Miller and Smith must be constructed to match, in all regards, Appendix IID and conform to any contractual builder specifications and/or the Section specific requirements detailed above. Specific Guidelines Guidelines for the construction and approval of fences are provided below. Some neighborhoods may have fences which are designed by the builder and which will typically be a standard feature for all homes, by that builder, in that neighborhood. All additional or replacement fences in such sections must match, in all regards, the builder-installed materials. 1. Chain-Link and Barbed Wire Fences. Chain-link and barbed-wire fences will not be approved under any circumstances. Chain link or barbed wire fencing material will not be permitted for any use. 2. Fence Locations a. Where not restricted by easement or other deed-based restriction, fences are to be placed on the rear and side Lot lines and may not extend forward of the rear plane of the home. b. Fence applications for corner Lots will be evaluated to determine any adverse effects on adjoining Lots. i. Fences placed on the side of the yard that faces a public or private street will not be permitted to extend to the edge of the Lot. The fence may only extend ½ the distance of the side yard. If the owner desires, landscaping may be considered for planting outside of the fence provided it is not located in an easement and does not adversely impact traffic sightlines. ii. Where the fence style found in Appendix II-D is permitted, applications for corner Lot fencing which matches the fence style found in Appendix II-D may be granted a variance for placement because of the reduced visual impact of the open style. Fences approved with a variance for placement must be placed at least 4 feet (4') from any sidewalk and shall not be located in an easement nor adversely affect traffic sightlines. 3. Fences for Attached Homes. Must be installed with the finished side out; must match, in all regards, the builder-installed privacy divider between homes and cannot extend forward of the rear plane of the home. 57

58 4. Fences for Single-Family Detached Homes. Except where otherwise specified, fences for single-family detached homes must be installed with the finished side out, be of an open style and match, in all regards (Appendices II-A II-C). Fences must be pressure-treated wood (#2 southern yellow pine or better) or cedar. Fences must be painted/stained white, or left to age naturally, or sealed with a clear preservative or finished in white vinyl. To secure the rear yard for pets and small children, black or dark green vinyl coated wire mesh (10 to 16 gauge) may be attached to the interior side of the fence. All fences must be maintained to the highest degree in accordance with the Association s Property Maintenance Standards. 5. Fencing on Grade. All fence tops (for privacy-type fences) shall be level and not slope with grade. Depending upon the fence design and topography, fence bottoms for solid types of fences shall either be level to match the top or may slope to follow the grade if the grade is severe. All vertical members must be straight and plumb. Horizontal members must be parallel. 6. Fences for previously identified Golf Course Lots. Revised plans for development in Brambleton no longer include a golf course. All Lots with yards which were previously identified to abut the planned golf course are no longer restricted from installing fences, but the following additional guidelines apply. a. For detached homes, fencing must comply with all applicable provisions for fencing and must match, in all regards, the detail found in Appendix II-C of the Design Guidelines. b. For attached homes, fencing must comply with all applicable provisions for fencing and must match, in all regards, the fencing originally installed by the builder as a divider between homes. All fences require review and approval prior to installation. 7. Easements Fences may not be installed in such a manner as to encroach into any easement. Easements are typically shown on an official record plat or plat map. Lot Owners are advised to review their record plat and deed restrictions for specific restrictions related to easements on their Lot. Typical easements that may encumber Lots within Brambleton include: a. Ingress/Egress Easements typically impact homes serviced by private streets or alleys and are in place to allow for unobstructed access through and across the easement; b. Sight Distance Easements are typically found on corner Lots and are designed to provide a line of clear sight for vehicle traffic; c. Storm Drain Easements are located throughout Brambleton and serve the storm water management needs of the community; d. Yard Access Easements are typically found in attached townhomes and are designed to provide unencumbered access to interior Lots. 58

59 PRIVATE IMPROVEMENTS PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAYS Lot Owners are hereby put on notice that the front property lines of most Lots do not extend to the public street and are typically located a few feet behind the curb and gutter, or public sidewalk. Lot Owners shall not install, construct or place any private facilities or improvements, including but not limited to sprinkler/irrigation systems, fences, walls, landscaping, signs or other decorative improvements and appurtenant facilities within the dedicated public street right-of-way. Loudoun County, the Virginia Department of Transportation and/or the Declarant, as required for bond release and State road acceptance, may, in their sole discretion, without prior notice to the Lot Owner, remove any and all private facilities or improvements located within the dedicated public street right-of-way. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, patio and/or deck, neighboring or existing fences, accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines and easements, and the location of the proposed fence and gate(s). 2. Current photographs showing the house and proposed fence location. Photos should show significant grade or topography changes and existing fences. 3. A drawing or photograph of the fence design, including dimensions, material, color, and any planned gates. 4. Color sample or photo of stain color, as applicable. 5. A landscape plan showing proposed plantings, as applicable. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Fences must be maintained to the highest standards in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. All elements must be kept in good condition and repair. Painted or stained surfaces are to be maintained with a uniform finish. Repairs to damaged, leaning, bowing or broken fences are to be made promptly. If changes to previously approved or installed fences are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 59

60 FIREWOOD General Considerations Provided that all of the following criteria are met, the storage of firewood does not require an approved application. Firewood stored on a Lot shall be kept neatly stacked and shall be located to the rear or side of the residence and in such a manner as to avoid adverse visual impacts for adjoining properties. Screening may be required in certain cases. Firewood is to be stacked in piles which do not exceed eight feet in length and four feet in height for both aesthetic and safety considerations. Covers for firewood must be a muted brown, black or tan color. No brightly colored tarps will be permitted. Other than a limited quantity of firewood intended for immediate use, firewood may not be stacked on a patio or deck. No firewood may be kept on community Common Area. FLAGPOLES/FLAGSTAFFS General Considerations Permanent, free standing flagpoles are prohibited. Flagstaffs which are located at or near the front entrance to the home and which do not exceed six feet (6') in length and are attached at an incline to the wall or pillar of the dwelling unit are permitted and do not require approval by the Covenants Committee. Flags, banners and flagstaffs are to be located so as to minimize their impact on neighboring properties. Specific Guidelines 1. Generally, no more than one building or pole-mounted flag will be permitted on any property. 2. The flag or banner is not to exceed 15 square feet in size. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Flagstaffs must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. It is recommended that when flying the United States Flag, residents comply with the Flag Code found in the Appendices of this document. 60

61 GAZEBOS General Considerations Gazebos require Covenants Committee approval prior to installation. They may be constructed as an accessory structure of a deck or as a free-standing structure on the Lot for single-family detached homes. The installation of gazebos on attached housing Lots shall be in accordance with any approved project standards established by the builder however, it must be noted that scale of a gazebo may not be suitable for the size of the Lots available in attached housing. Specific Guidelines 1. Location. Free-standing gazebos which are not integral to a deck must be located in the rear yard behind the home. 2. Size and Scale. The size must be compatible with the size of the home and Lot and, if constructed as an accessory element of a deck, with the scale of the deck. 3. Materials and Color. If constructed as an accessory structural element of a deck, the materials and color must be identical to the vertical elements of the deck (refer to the Design Guidelines for decks). The roof material must match that of the home or be constructed of shake shingle. If built as an independent structure sited in the rear yard, a gazebo may either be constructed of cedar or pressure-treated lumber (#2 southern yellow pine or better) or with finish materials that match the exterior of the home. The roof material must be identical to that used on the home or be shake shingle. In order to minimize the visual impact of a free standing gazebo, the Covenants Committee may require the installation of landscape materials. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, property lines and easements, and any accessory structures, significant vegetation; and the location of the proposed gazebo. 2. Complete plan and elevation drawings, to scale, showing the existing house and the proposed gazebo. 3. Photographs showing the house and the site, marked to show the location of the proposed gazebo. 4. A list of all exterior materials and samples of proposed colors. 5. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of items, such as exterior light fixtures, as applicable, including sizes, materials and colors. 6. A landscape plan, as applicable, or required. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Gazebos must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved or installed gazebo are desired, a 61

62 new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS General Considerations Any addition of new gutters or downspouts, or a change in location of an original gutter or downspout, requires approval. All gutters and downspouts, including replacements, must conform in color and design to those installed originally. Gutters and downspouts must be located in such a manner as to not adversely affect drainage onto neighboring properties, including Common Areas or adjacent property beyond the boundaries of the Brambleton community. Black tubing used for additional drainage purposes must be buried underground and directed away from adjacent properties. Splash blocks are to be black or green plastic or unpainted concrete. Extensions of downspouts at ground level are not permitted due to aesthetic appearance and impact to drainage on adjoining properties and open spaces. All downspout extensions must be buried in such a manner to adequately manage runoff, according to correct engineering practices and Loudoun County Code requirements. No application is required for the replacement of existing approved gutters and downspouts of a similar size and appearance in the currently approved location. The installation of gutters and downspouts on attached housing shall be in accordance with approved project standards established by the builder. Specific Guidelines 1. Gutters and downspouts shall be painted to match existing gutters and downspouts, or may be painted the color of the surface to which they are attached, or the existing trim color. 2. Downspouts must be brought to grade and splash blocks must be provided. 3. Downspout extensions, including underground drainpipe, must not detrimentally impact any adjacent property. 4. Water flow from downspout extensions must terminate within the applicant s property and water flow from downspouts or extensions may not be directed onto neighboring property, common areas, streets or sidewalks. Submission Requirements 1. Drawings or photographs of the house marked to show the locations of the proposed gutters and downspouts. 2. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" showing their profile, dimensions and color. 62

63 Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Gutters and downspouts must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously installed/approved gutters/downspouts are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. HANDICAPPED ACCESS FACILITIES Easy and unhindered entry/exit for handicapped residents and their guests is considered a valuable asset. Therefore, special walkways, railings, ramps and other similar supporting facilities must be constructed to be harmonious with the existing house and landscaping. Both addition and removal of such facilities requires an Application. HOLIDAY DECORATIONS AND LIGHTING Holiday decorations and lighting do not require approval by the Covenants Committee. Nevertheless, if the Committee is presented with a petition by three (3) Owners who reside in sight of the decorations as to any alleged adverse effect to their properties caused by the decorations/lighting, the Committee may compel the Lot owner of the decorated Lot to limit, constrain or otherwise reduce or modify any decorative materials or lighting. Should the Covenants Committee determine that any decorations or lighting attract excessive traffic, unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of the Common Area or adjacent Lots or cause a dangerous condition to exist, the resident responsible must remove the decorations or lighting within 48 hours after receiving notice from the Association. In addition, the following guidelines apply to the display of holiday decorations and lighting; a. Holiday decorations and lighting must be specific and appropriate to the holiday occurring at the time of display. All materials must be within the boundaries of the Lot of the resident making the display. b. Christmas or winter decorations may be placed out as early as the day after Thanksgiving and may remain on display until January 15 th. Exterior decorations for all other holidays may be placed out thirty (30) days in advance of the holiday and removed not later than fourteen (14) days after the holiday. 63

64 HOT TUBS/SPAS General Considerations Exterior hot tubs or spas require review and approval by the Covenants Committee prior to placement on a Lot. Spas/hot tubs are to be selected, designed, and located so as to minimize their impact on neighboring properties. Applications for hot tubs/spas must include details for required privacy screening. The incorporation of the hot tub/spa as a design feature of a deck or patio is preferred and encouraged. The exterior finish of an elevated hot tub/spa is to blend with the exterior finish of the home, deck or patio to which attached or most closely related. Specific Guidelines 1. Spas/hot tubs shall be located in the rear yard. 2. Spas/hot tubs shall be screened from adjacent properties and streets by a structural screen, fence and/or landscaping. 3. No more than one spa/hot tub is permitted on any property. 4. When set on a deck, the spa/hot tub is to be integrated both visually and structurally into the deck. 5. Any mechanical equipment, pipes and wiring must be concealed or screened from view. 6. Must meet all County requirements for placement, noise levels, mechanical/electrical permits, etc. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any deck, patio, fencing, accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the proposed location of the spa/hot tub and required privacy screening. 2. Photographs showing the house and site for the proposed spa/hot tub and drawings, to scale, including plan and elevations, construction details, materials and colors. 3. If the use of fencing is proposed, include drawings indicating dimensions, details, and material. 4. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the proposed type and location of landscaping. 5. Any associated lighting. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Hot tubs/spas must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. The hot tub/spa is to be covered, with a cover specifically designed for the hot tub/spa, when not in use. If changes to a previously approved or installed hot tub/spa are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. 64

65 HOUSE NUMBERS General Considerations House numbers within a neighborhood or street are to be compatible in design and located so as to be clearly visible from the street. House numbers must be displayed and any change from the house/unit numbers originally provided by the builder requires review. House numbers are to complement the architectural style of the house and be of complementary color, size and quality. The installation of house/unit numbers in attached housing and multifamily housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder. Specific Guidelines 1. House/unit numbers are to be located immediately adjacent to the front entrance or door. Numbers may also be placed on a curbside mailbox, where applicable. 2. House numbers are to be located near or under a light for nighttime visibility. Internally lit numbers are not permitted. 3. House numbers must be legible, Arabic numerals, no taller than 6 inches and which contrast with the color of the background to which attached. 4. Custom designed house numbers may be approved if they are simple, appropriate, and relate to the architecture of the house. Submission Requirements 1. A photograph or drawing of the house numbers, including dimensions, material and color. 2. A drawing or photograph showing the location of the numbers in relation to the front entrance. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations House numbers must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved or installed house numbers are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. 65

66 IRRIGATION General Considerations Irrigation systems require review and approval prior to installation. All of the elements of the system, including the heads and control boxes must be located entirely within the property lines of the applicant. The control box must be located in the garage, side or rear yard. Heads may be placed to distribute water onto adjacent Common Areas or right-of-way, but water shall not be directed onto sidewalks and streets. In all cases, irrigation systems must be maintained in such a manner as to not adversely affect drainage onto neighboring properties, streets, sidewalks or Common Areas. No permanent above- ground irrigation systems are permitted. ALERT RESIDENTS ARE REMINDED TO CALL MISS BEFORE ANY DIGGING PROJECT Specific Guidelines 1. Downspout extensions, including underground drainpipe, french drains, or modifications to existing drainage must not detrimentally impact any adjacent property. 2. Water flow from downspout extensions must terminate within the applicant s property. 3. Water flow from downspouts or extensions may not be directed onto neighboring property, common areas, streets or sidewalks. 4. Any negative impact to designed drainage must be remedied by the applicant. Submission Requirements 1. Drawings or photographs of the house marked to show the locations of theproposed irrigation system. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Irrigation systems must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved or installed irrigation system are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. PRIVATE IMPROVEMENTS PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAYS Lot Owners are hereby put on notice that the front property lines of most Lots do not extend to the public street and are typically located a few feet behind the curb and gutter, or public sidewalk. Lot Owners shall not install, construct or place any private facilities or improvements, including but not limited to sprinkler/irrigation systems, fences, walls, landscaping, signs or other decorative improvements and appurtenant facilities within the dedicated public street right-of-way. Loudoun County, the Virginia Department of Transportation and/or the Declarant, as required for bond release and State road acceptance, may, in their sole discretion, without prior notice to the Lot 66

67 Owner, remove any and all private facilities or improvements located within the dedicated public street right-of-way. LANDSCAPING General Considerations Landscaping is an integral part of the overall image and character of Brambleton and is to be designed to enhance the architecture of the house, the natural beauty of the environment and the overall quality of the neighborhood. The preservation of wooded areas should be maximized through the retention and maintenance of existing trees. Landscaping and the addition of plant materials are important in the screening of items such as pools, decks, patios, fencing, parking areas and utility equipment. Landscaping is also the preferred means to provide visual privacy. In general, well maintained turf, low ground cover, flowerbeds, evergreens, small flowering trees and the use of native materials are encouraged. Planting in a curved or swooping landscape bed is preferred to soften the appearance of a straight hard line. Examples of the curved landscaped beds can be seen throughout Brambleton in the Common Areas. Structural elements related to landscaping, including but not limited to retaining walls, paved areas, steps, etc., must be submitted for review and approval. ALERT RESIDENTS ARE REMINDED TO CALL MISS BEFORE ANY DIGGING PROJECT Specific Guidelines 1. Trees, shrubs, and other landscaping materials must be located so as not to obstruct significant views from neighboring residences or restrict sight lines for vehicular traffic. 2. Plant materials are to be appropriate in character, habitat, species, size (both at time of installation and maturity) number, and arrangement for their purpose and surroundings. 3. Wood chips, shredded leaf mulch, pine straw and shredded bark shall be used for mulch. 4. Stone, used as accent elements or paving material, is to be chosen so that the color, size, and installation complement the architecture of the house, the natural environment and associated plant materials. Monolithic paving of yards, or covering yards with decorative stones as a primary design element is prohibited. 5. Re-grading must not negatively affect neighboring properties. 6. Small landscape-related elements such as bird feeders, birdbaths, small decorative garden ornaments, etc. do not require review and approval. Any decoration over 18 needs Committee approval; see specific guidelines found under heading Exterior Decorative Objects. 7. Removal of trees over 4 in diameter requires Committee approval. See specific guidelines found under the heading of Tree Removal for more detail. 8. Synthetic grass, plants or flowers are prohibited. 67

68 Application and review is not required for the following modifications: 1. Planting of annuals or perennials in existing beds. 2. Installation of new beds less than four feet (4') wide around the perimeter of the house foundation (and deck, patio, or fence if present) and perimeter of the rear of the Lot, provided that plants installed have a mature height of less than eight feet. 3. Installation of new beds less than three feet (3') wide adjacent to walks from the driveway to the front of the home, provided that plants have a mature height of less than four feet. 4. Installation of new beds less than two feet (2') wide around a mailbox post, and around transformer/utility boxes, provided that plants have a mature height of less than two feet. 5. Installation of black plastic around existing or approved beds, provided that it is installed to be below the height of the top of the grass, no more than six inches (6 ) in height. 6. The installation of individual trees or shrubs on the Lot, provided that such plantings at maturity are in scale with the home and Lot and do not interrupt designed drainage patterns and swales. Any other landscaping modifications, including but not limited to the following, require application and review by the Covenants Committee. Landscaping materials may not be installed on ingress/egress easements shown on an official record plat or plat map, or within the VDOT right-of-way. 1. Removal of grass and replacement with mulch or landscape ground cover, except in the case of the pre-approved locations above. (This will be considered for limited areas; on steep slopes, for example.) 2. Any installation of landscape timbers. Timbers may not define the individual front yards or walkways, and cannot be used on property lines. Landscape timbers are prohibited in front yard locations. Timbers may be used in rear yards to line flower beds. Timbers must be natural in color, not stained. 3. Stone or masonry landscape walls. Walls intended as a landscape feature are not to exceed two feet (2') in height. The use of natural stone is preferred. However, brick or cultured stone may be approved if consistent with design characteristics of the home and adjoining properties. See specific guidelines found under the heading of Walls/Retaining Walls/Feature Walls for more details. 4. Any modifications that require construction (including retaining walls or garden structures, such as trellises, gazebos, etc.) or result in a grade change. 5. Any shrubs or trees which are intended to form a hedge or natural screen which will be more than three feet (3') in height. Landscape screens or barriers may be approvable in order to define private space or block undesirable views. However, the Committee will 68

69 consider any adverse impacts on adjoining Lots, including the disruption of sight lines for adjoining properties and interruption of designed drainage patterns. Landscape screens or barriers are not permitted on front yard Lot lines. 6. Any proposed improvement which is of such a scale or type as to be potentially inconsistent with the scale and design features of the home, adjacent homes and the surrounding area. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Landscaping must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved or installed landscaping are desired, and if such changes require application and approval, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. 69

70 LANDSCAPE FEATURES General Considerations Landscape features include but are not limited to fountains, sculpture/statuary, etc. and require Covenants Committee approval prior to placement on a Lot. When considering the type and location of landscape feature, the size of the property and proximity to adjacent residences are important factors. In general, landscape features shall not be intrusive and must be appropriate to the surroundings. If visible from neighboring properties, landscape features may be required to be screened by natural vegetation and/or additional landscaping. Specific Guidelines 1. The preferred location is in the rear yard; landscape features are generally not permitted in front yards or in side yards that face onto a street. 2. Generally, no more than one large landscape feature will be permitted on any property. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any accessory structures, fences, significant vegetation, property lines and the proposed location of the artwork. 2. Photographs showing the house and property marked with the proposed location of the landscape feature. 3. A photograph of the landscape feature, including dimensions, material, and color. 4. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the type and location of existing or proposed landscaping. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Landscaping must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved or installed Landscaping are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. 70

71 MAILBOXES General Considerations Mailboxes shall be simple, functional and in accordance with approved project standards established for initial construction. Their design and location should minimize their visual impact and comply with all local and postal codes. No change to the style, material or color of the mailbox, post or accessory elements is permitted. A larger box is permitted without application if available in the same style and color as originally provided by the builder and compliant with any applicable regulations. No application is required for the replacement of an existing, standard approved mailbox or post. Specific Guidelines 1. For single-family detached houses, mailboxes shall be located at the curb immediately adjacent to the driveway or the lead walk. These mailboxes shall conform to the standard design for each section of Brambleton. 2. Mailboxes within a street or neighborhood must be uniform in design and color. Painting or change in color of the post, box or accessory elements is not permitted 3. Newspaper delivery boxes, where desired, shall be incorporated within the design of the overall mailbox support post bracket as specified by the Brambleton standard. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Mailboxes must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. The black boxes and posts within the community are to be maintained with the original finish as installed by the builder. Replacement or repair information can be found in the Appendices. 71

72 OUTDOOR KITCHENS/PERMANENT GRILL AREAS/PORTABLE GRILLS General Considerations Outdoor Kitchens, including permanent and semi-permanent elements, permanent grills and other structures require Covenants Committee approval prior to installation. Construction design, scale and materials of outdoor kitchens and permanent grill areas must complement the existing house and Lot. The incorporation of an outdoor kitchen or permanent grill area as a design feature of a patio is encouraged. The only permitted location is in the rear of the Lot. Outdoor kitchens and permanent grill areas are not permitted in front yards or in side yard locations. Portable grills do not require Covenants Committee approval prior to placement on the Lot. Portable grills may not be stored at the front of the home. Specific Guidelines 1. The size and location of the outdoor kitchen and/or permanent grill area should be appropriate to the existing house and space available on the property. 2. Where more substantial outdoor kitchens or permanent grill areas are to be constructed, special attention must be given to the massing of the addition in order to visually integrate the outdoor kitchen or permanent grill area with both the house and the grounds. The design elements should repeat significant architectural elements of the existing house such as roof lines, windows, trim details, materials and colors. 3. If roofed area is included as part of the design, it is to complement the existing roof pitch and, if possible, match that of the existing roof pitch. 4. Supplemental landscaping may be required to compensate for the removal of significant vegetation or to provide appropriate screening where necessary. 5. The design and location must consider any adverse impact on neighboring properties, including changes in grade or drainage and include details to mitigate any potential negative impact to designed drainage pattern or adverse effect on adjoining properties. Applicant is responsible to correct any adverse impact to drainage. 6. Supplemental landscaping may be required to visually soften the addition. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any fencing, accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, easements, and the location of the proposed modification. 2. Photographs showing the house and site of the addition. 3. Equipment cut sheets. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations All elements of an outdoor kitchen or permanent grill area must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously 72

73 approved or installed elements are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. PATIOS General Considerations All patios require approval. Patios must be located in rear yards. Patios are to be installed flush with the ground or for sloping sites, level with steps or small walls to transition. Any adverse impact to designed drainage which might result from the construction of a patio is to be considered and plan for mitigation is to be included in the application. The use of a partially porous patio surface or the installations of mulch beds adjacent to the patio are techniques to minimize drainage concerns. The patio shall be an appropriate size for the area in which it is to be located and is to be constructed of brick, flagstone, slate, pavers, concrete or other high quality masonry or stone material that is compatible with the existing materials on the Lot. Supplemental landscaping may be required to compensate for the removal of significant vegetation or to provide appropriate screening where necessary. Specific Guidelines 1. The patio shall be designed as an integral part of the house and property. 2. Changes in grade or drainage pattern must not adversely affect adjoining properties. If drainage is adversely affected, the owner/applicant is responsible for correction. 3. The preferred location is in the rear of the house. Side locations will be considered when a rear location is not practical, but the Association may still disapprove a side yard location. Front or street-facing side-yard patios will not be approved. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, property lines, easements, significant vegetation, existing patios and decks, fencing, accessory structures, and the location of the proposed patio. 2. Photographs showing the proposed location of the patio. 3. A plan, to scale showing the existing house and the proposed patio, including materials. 4. Detailed construction drawings of railings, steps, walls, pillars, columns or any above grade elements. 5. A landscape plan, as applicable. 6. Detailed plan for drainage, as applicable Maintenance Requirements and future considerations All patio elements must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards and kept in good order, condition and repair. The patio must be level and kept as weed-free as possible. If changes to previously approved or installed patio 73

74 elements are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. PEST CONTROL DEVICES All exterior pest control devices require review and approval prior to installation. No devices may be installed on Common Areas. Goose wire may be installed to deter geese on Lots affected by migratory geese. Goose wire must be placed on the property line. No installation of goose wire onto the Common Area is permitted by Lot Owners. A rabbit fence or similar fencing may be erected around vegetable gardens to provide for pest control with the following conditions: Fences must not exceed three feet (3') in height. Fences must be confined within 1 foot (1') of the outer edge of the garden bed; the entire fenced area may not exceed thirty (30) linear feet in area and under no circumstance will this type of fencing be permitted to serve as a property line fence. Fences must be constructed of materials with a low visual impact, using dark metal or natural wood is required. Chain link or barbed wire fences will not be approved under any circumstances or permitted for any use. Black or dark green vinyl coated wire mesh (10 to 16 gauge) may be attached to the interior side of the fence. All fences must be maintained to the highest degree in accordance with the Association s Property Maintenance Standards. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations All pest control devices must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards and kept in good order, condition and repair. If changes to previously approved or installed devices are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. 74

75 OUTDOOR FIREPLACE/FIREPIT General Considerations Permanent or outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are deemed to be structures and require review and approval prior to placement on the Lot. Construction design, materials, scale, and placement of outdoor fireplaces and fire pits must complement the existing house and Lot. Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are to be incorporated as a design feature of a patio or landscaping plan. The only permitted location is in the rear of the Lot. Permanent outdoor fireplaces and fire pits may not be installed in front yards or in side yard locations. Portable fire places and fire pits must be stored in the rear yard, or out of view, when not in use. The use of brick, flagstone, slate or decorative pavers is required; the use of concrete is not permitted. The Covenants Committee may require additional landscaping may be required for screening. Semi-permanent fireplaces or fire pits which are to be stored outdoors must be of high quality materials. Specific Guidelines 1. Design and location are to be carefully considered to minimize any impact on adjacent properties. 2. Permanent fireplaces and fire pits must be located in the rear yard. Front or street facing side yard fire places or fire pits will not be approved. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, property lines, easements, significant vegetation, existing patios and decks, fencing, accessory structures, and the location of the proposed fireplace or fire pit. 2. Photographs showing the proposed location of the proposed fire place or pit. 3. An elevation drawing with dimensions of the proposed fireplace or fire pit. 4. A landscape plan, as applicable. 5. Materials list of all proposed materials. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations All fireplace or fire pit elements must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards and kept in good order, condition and repair. If changes to previously approved or installed elements are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. 75

76 OUTDOOR FURNITURE Furniture placed outside shall be specifically designed for such purpose and maintained in good order, condition and repair. Outdoor furniture shall be placed on a porch, stoop or in the rear yard. The use of permanently placed outdoor furniture is not permitted in front yards. OUTDOOR STORAGE Nothing shall be kept or stored on the exterior of the Lots or common areas which would create an unsightly condition. This includes, but is not limited to refuse containers, trash or rubbish, machinery and equipment, building materials, etc. Portable equipment including grills or fire pits may not be stored at the front of the home. 76

77 PERGOLAS General Considerations All pergolas require approval. Pergolas are to be appropriate to the size of the home as sited on the Lot. They must meet Loudoun County minimum setback requirements and must not be constructed across Building Restriction Lines (BRL) shown on the individual plat or official record plat. Sample of an acceptable Pergola Pergolas are to be located in the rear yard. Particular attention will be given so that views from adjoining properties, as determined by the Committee or staff, are not adversely impacted. Pergolas are to be constructed of a material which is the same as, or complementary, to the existing home. In the cases where redwood, cedar or pressure-treated lumber is used, the material may be painted or stained to match the home, left to weather naturally or sealed with an appropriate sealer. The use of composite materials is permitted and the color must match or be complementary to the color of the home. The installation of pergolas in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for location, color, screening, etc. Submission Requirements 1. Drawings, photographs or catalog "cut sheets" of the pergola including dimensions and information about its material and color. 2. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, any accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the location of the proposed pergola. 3. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the proposed type and location of vegetation or other screening, existing or proposed. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Pergolas must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved pergola are desired, a new Design 77

78 Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. PLAY HOUSES General Considerations All play houses require approval. Raised or elevated play houses will be considered only as a secondary element of a recreational play set, not as a primary stand-alone improvement. Play houses must be located so as to minimize their impact on neighboring properties, roadways or common areas. The location should take advantage of screening provided by existing or proposed structures, fences and/or vegetation. Landscape screening may be required. Play houses may only be located in rear yards. Placement on side or front yards is prohibited. Play houses must be visually and architecturally compatible with the existing house through the complementary use of materials, colors, details and workmanship. No more than one play house will be permitted on any property. Specific Guidelines Materials Play houses fabricated from metal, plastic or vinyl are prohibited. Prefabricated wood play houses are permitted if the design is compatible with the home. Design The architectural design of a play house must be compatible with the design of the home. Finish Materials The use of finish materials which are identical to those for the home is encouraged. However, wood play houses with an appropriate design and color are acceptable. Color The color scheme should match or be compatible with the home. Wood play houses should be painted or stained to match or complement the color of the house siding or trim. Size In general, play houses are not to exceed seven (7) feet in height and have maximum floor area of forty-eight (48) square feet. Larger play houses will be considered based on the size of the Lot and visual impact from a street or adjoining properties. Size is limited to a maximum of 80 square feet. Location Play houses must be placed in the rear yard. Play houses for single-family detached homes must be located a minimum of five (5) feet from any property line. Landscape screening may be required for play houses located on single-family detached Lots. An application for a play house on a townhome Lot must also include a request to install a fence that will fully enclose the rear yard. Play houses will not be permitted on townhome Lots unless the rear yard is fully enclosed by a fence which conforms to the Design Guidelines. 78

79 Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any deck, patio, fencing, accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the proposed location of the play house. 2. Photographs or drawings showing the house and the exact location of the proposed play house. 3. If pre-constructed, a catalogue photograph or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the play house, including dimensions, materials, and colors. 4. If the play house is to be constructed, include a plan and elevation drawings, to scale, with dimensions, materials, and colors. If built against the rear wall of the house, also include this elevation incorporating the proposed play house. 5. Where the use of fencing is proposed, please see the specific guidelines and requirements for fencing. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Play houses must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved Play House are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 79

80 RAIN BARRELS General Considerations All rain barrels require approval. A maximum of two (2) rain barrels are permitted on each Lot. The installation of rain barrels in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for location, color, screening, etc. 1. A maximum size of eighty (80) gallons per barrel is permitted. 2. Suggested colors: black, dark green, or brown. Dark colors prevent sunlight from entering the barrel. Without sunlight, algae and other organisms cannot flourish in the barrel. 3. Barrels must be made of either plastic or wood (metal containers are not allowed). 4. Barrels must be placed or installed at the rear of the dwelling, at the rear corners of the dwelling, or on the side of the dwelling as long as the barrels are not easily visible from the street in front of the house. 5. Mosquito control must be utilized. If not inherent in the design, mosquito control needs to be exercised by design or by screening to eliminate any mosquito breeding. Barrels with an open top permit mosquito breeding. Holes for water entry with a screen installed help stop mosquitoes. Submission Requirements 1. Drawings, photographs or catalog "cut sheets" of the rain barrel including dimensions and information about its material and color. 2. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, any accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the location of the proposed barrel. 3. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the proposed type and location of vegetation or other screening, existing or proposed. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Rain barrels must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved Rain Barrels are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 80

81 RECREATION AND PLAY EQUIPMENT General Considerations The Design Standards listed below are provided in an effort to reconcile the need for play equipment with the goal of minimizing its visual impact and the effect the use of such equipment will have on neighbors. Careful thought should be given to location and kinds of equipment to be installed since neighborhood facilities will be of a larger scale and have greater usage. The installation of play equipment in common areas is prohibited. Permanent play equipment is to be selected and located so as to minimize its visual and acoustical impact on adjacent properties. Design and location are to be carefully considered and efforts made to visually integrate the structure into its surroundings and take advantage of any screening provided by existing vegetation. When required, screening of the equipment must be accomplished by evergreens to ensure year-round protection. Screening plant material will be required to be of a height great enough to conceal the play equipment within 24 months of planting. When considering play equipment, the size of the property, wooded area, equipment size, material, color, relationship to adjacent residences and amount of visual screening are important factors. Permanent or semi-permanent play equipment which constitutes a structure, such as a swing set, play-house, sand box, etc., requires an application and must conform to the guidelines below to be approved. Specific Guidelines 1. Location. All play equipment (with the exception of basketball hoops) must be located in the rear yard. Play equipment must be must be located a minimum of five feet (5') from any property line. 2. Size and Scale. The size of any play equipment is to be compatible with the size of the Lot. 3. Screening. Play equipment is to be sited so as to have the minimum visual and noise impacts on adjoining Lots. The Covenants Committee may require landscape screening to minimize any adverse impacts. 4. Material and Colors. a. For Single Family Detached Homes Play equipment must be primarily made of wood and the use of bright colors on play equipment should be minimized. However, as most play structures available for purchase have bright colored plastic and/or fabric elements they will generally be acceptable if the majority of the basic structure is wood. Applications for play equipment are to include a color photograph or catalogue cut sheet, the physical dimensions of the equipment and proposed location on the Lot. b. For Single Family Attached Homes the use of plastic play equipment is permitted within a fenced backyard as most wood play equipment available to residents is not suited to the size and scale of the majority of Lots within this housing type. 81

82 6. Portable play equipment that is easily transportable by one person, such as soccer nets, bikes or scooters, does not require approval but must be stored out of view of neighboring properties when not in use. 7. Portable, large play equipment such as skateboard ramps, climbing walls, trampolines, portable basketball backboards, etc., must be approved unless stored out of sight when not in use. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any accessory structures, fences, significant vegetation, property lines, and the proposed location of the play equipment. 2. Photographs showing the existing house and site marked with the location of the proposed play equipment. 3. A catalogue photograph or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the play equipment, including dimensions, materials, and colors. 4. If equipment is to be constructed, include a plan and elevation drawing, to scale, identifying dimensions, materials, and colors. 5. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the proposed type and location of vegetation. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Recreation and play equipment must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved Play Equipment are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 82

83 ROOFING General Considerations An application is required for new or replacement roofing which is in any way differs from that installed by the original builder. All roofing, including the design and material, shall be appropriate in appearance and quality to the style and design of the house. Roof material, color, quality and style must be compatible with other existing or proposed exterior colors and materials on the house. Generally, no application is required for the replacement of existing roofing that is similar in material, color, quality and style. In attached housing replacement roofing must exactly match the material, color, quality and style of the original roof in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder. Should updated or upgraded materials become available; the Committee will consider those on a case-by-case basis. Specific Guidelines 1. The roofing material, color, quality and style is to be compatible with originally offered builder options and other approved roofing in the neighborhood. 2. Changes in material, such as a change from cedar shakes to asphalt shingles, are considered as significant as changes in color. 3. When replacing roofing, the entire structure is to be reroofed at one time. Partial reroofing is generally not allowed unless the additional/replacement roofing exactly matches, in all regards, the existing roofing. 4. Replacement roofing material and associated elements are to be similar in appearance and quality to the existing approved roofing. 5. A change in roof color must comply with the guidelines for Color Changes. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs showing the house and roof. 2. The manufacturer and specific color "name" of the proposed roofing material, and a sample. 3. If possible, a sample of the existing roof material. 4. Include the adjacent neighbors' roofing colors. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Roofing must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved Roofing are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 83

84 SCREENED/OPEN PORCHES General Considerations Screened or open porch additions require review and approval prior to installation and shall be planned and designed with the same care and consideration as the initial house construction. The screened porch shall be visually integrated with the existing house through the consistent and complementary use of architectural elements, materials colors and other details. The design must be compatible with the existing house in style, scale, massing and the consistent use of architectural elements, materials, colors and other details. In general, additions/alterations to attached housing shall be in accordance with approved project standards established by the builder. In the absence of defined project standards, the following Specific Guidelines shall apply. Roof pitches must match or be compatible with the roof slope on the applicant s existing houses. Roof materials must match that of the existing house; siding must match existing siding in color, material, size and style. Windows and doors must match or be compatible with those used in the applicant s house, and are to be located in a manner which relates well to the location of exterior openings in the existing house. Shed style roofs are prohibited for screened porches, although a hip style roof is acceptable. If changes in grade or other conditions which will affect drainage are anticipated, they must be indicated. Generally, approval will be denied if adjoining properties are adversely affected by changes in drainage. Builder /Section Specific Requirements - Section 22 Miller & Smith homes in this section were provided the option to add decks, or screened/open porches as builder options. If an owner applies to install any of these elements after the purchase of the home, the improvement must match, in all regards the builder-installed decks to maintain visual and architectural consistency. Please see Appendix IV for detailed specifications. Specific Guidelines 1. The size and location of the porch is to be appropriate to the existing house and space available on the property. 2. The design and location must consider any adverse impact on neighboring properties, including changes in grade or drainage. Any adverse effects to the neighboring properties shall be the responsibility of the owner to correct. 3. Porches/screened porches must be attached directly to the house. 4. New windows and doors are to be the same, or be compatible with, the style, quality, material and color of the existing house including roofing, siding and trim elements. 5. Where more substantial porches/screened porches are to be constructed on upper-level decks, special attention must be given to the massing of the addition in order to visually integrate the porch with both the house and the ground. 6. Supplemental landscaping may be required to compensate for the removal of vegetation 84

85 and to visually soften the addition. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any fencing, accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, easements, and the location of the proposed porch. 2. Submission documentation will indicate compliance with setbacks and height restrictions as well as any other requirement per the applicable zoning regulations. 3. Photographs showing the house and site of the addition. 4. Complete plan and elevation drawings, to scale, showing the existing house and the proposed addition. 5. A list of all exterior materials and samples of proposed colors, if applicable. 6. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of "off-the-shelf" items, as applicable, including sizes, materials and colors. 7. A landscape plan, as applicable. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Screened/open porches must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved screened/open porch are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 85

86 SECURITY DEVICES General Considerations Security devices which will be visible from the exterior of the home require review and approval prior to installation. In general, the installation of security bars or grates on windows and doors is prohibited where visible from the street or adjoining properties. Lot Owners concerned about the security of their residence are advised to consider alternatives, including alarms and sophisticated lock systems. Security devices including cameras, alarms, and the installation of window and door security grills shall be selected located and installed so as to be an integral part of the house and not distract from its architecture and appearance. The installation of security devices in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for location, materials, appearance etc. Specific Guidelines 1. Installation of window bars and grill-type security doors is to be limited in number and location to only those necessary and shall be submitted for review and approval on a case-by-case basis. 2. Window security bars/grills are to be black or painted the color of the window frame or associated trim. 3. Grill-type security doors are to be black or painted the color of the door behind. 4. Cameras and housings, sirens, speaker boxes, conduit and related exterior elements are to be unobtrusive and inconspicuous. Such devices are to be located where not readily visible and are to be a color that blends with or matches the surface to which attached. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and the location of all the proposed security devices. 2. Drawings or photographs showing the house and the proposed locations of all security devices. 3. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of proposed window bars and grill-type doors including dimensions, design, material and color. 4. Drawings showing custom design and details, where applicable. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Security devices must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved security device are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 86

87 SHADE STRUCTURES/CANOPIES/SAILS General Considerations Shade Structures, Canopies and Sails require review and approval prior to placement on a Lot. In general, sun control achieved through the use of umbrellas is preferred to the placement of a shade structure, canopy or sail. To be approved, these structures must be located on the rear side of the home and must be a color which matches or complements the color of the house siding or trim. One shade structure/canopy or sail may be approved per Lot. Shade structures/canopies/sails are to be harmonious with the architecture of the house. The style, size and color of the element must be compatible with the architecture of the house. No application is required for the replacement of existing approved shade structures/canopies or sails that are similar in style and color to a previously approved item. Specific Guidelines 1. Shade structures/canopies and sails are prohibited on front elevations and side elevations. The location of any shade structure/canopy or sail must not adversely affect views, light, winter sun or natural ventilation of adjacent properties. 2. Shade structures/canopies and sails are to be compatible with the design character of the house in terms of style, color, and materials. 3. If fabric materials are removed for winter storage, frames are to be secured or removed to the extent possible. 4. Fabric is the preferred material and must be one solid color. 5. No fringes shall be allowed. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the awning including dimensions and information about its material and color. 2. Drawings or photograph of its proposed location, including the material and color of the surface and dimensions. 3. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and the location of the proposed shade structure/canopy or sail. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Shade structures/canopies/sails must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved shade Structures/canopy/sail are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 87

88 SHEDS General Considerations All sheds require approval. Sheds must be located so as to minimize their impact on neighboring properties, roadways or common areas. The location is to take advantage of screening provided by existing or proposed structures, fences and/or vegetation. Landscape screening may be required. Storage sheds shall be located in rear yards. Placement on front yards is prohibited. Whenever possible, storage sheds/units are to be visually integrated with the existing house through the complementary use of materials, colors and details. No more than one storage shed will be permitted on any property. The addition of storage sheds in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder. In the absence of defined project standards the following shall apply; Specific Guidelines a. Materials - Sheds fabricated from metal, plastic or vinyl are prohibited. Prefabricated wood sheds are permitted if the design is compatible with the home. b. Design - The architectural design of a shed is to be compatible with the design of the home. c. Finish Materials - The use of finish materials which are identical to those for the home is encouraged. However, wood sheds with an appropriate design and color are acceptable. d. Color - The color scheme is to match or be compatible with the home. Wood sheds are to be painted or stained to match or complement the color of the house siding or trim. e. Size - In general, sheds are not to exceed seven (7) feet in height and have a maximum floor area of forty-eight (48) square feet. Larger sheds will be considered based on the size of the Lot and visual impact from a street or adjoining properties. Size is limited to a maximum of 80 square feet. f. Location - 1) Sheds located in the rear yard of a detached home must be sited a minimum of five feet (5') from any property line. 2) Sheds located under the floor of an elevated deck must directly abut the exterior wall of the home. 88

89 Submission Requirements 3) Sheds located on the side of a home must be constructed to be visually integrated to the home, as an addition/alteration, and must match in all regards the quality, construction, materials and style of the home. 4) An application for a shed on a townhome Lot must also include a request to install a fence that will fully enclose the rear yard. Sheds will not be permitted on townhome Lots unless the rear yard is fully enclosed by a fence which conforms to the Design Guidelines. 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any deck, patio, fencing, accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the proposed location of the shed. 2. Photographs showing the house and the exact location of the proposed shed. 3. If pre-constructed, a catalogue photograph or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the shed, including dimensions, materials, and colors. 4. If the storage shed is to be constructed, include a plan and elevation drawings, to scale, with dimensions, materials, and colors. If built against the rear wall of the house, also include this elevation incorporating the proposed shed. 5. Where the use of fencing is proposed, include a drawing with dimensions, details material and color. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Sheds must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved shed are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 89

90 SHUTTERS General Considerations Shutters are to be harmonious with the architecture and consistent with the design and existing elements of the home regarding the style, size, material and color of the shutters. No application is required for the replacement of existing approved shutters with shutters that are the same in style, color, material and quality. The installation of new or replacement shutters in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for style, material, quality, location, color, etc. Specific Guidelines 1. If new shutters are proposed, they are to be applied to all windows on an elevation, on both sides of a window, matching the size and configuration of the window. 2. A removal of existing shutters without replacing the shutters is an alteration to the dwelling that must be reviewed and approved. 3. A change in the shutter color requires Committee approval. Submission Requirements 1. Drawings or photographs showing the house and the proposed location of shutters. 2. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the shutters including dimensions, materials and samples of colors. 3. Information regarding existing shutters on the house, where applicable. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Shutters must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved shutters are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 90

91 SIDING General Considerations No application is required for the replacement of existing siding with siding that is identical in style, size, material, quality and color. An application is required for any change in color, size, location, material, or style to the original builder provided siding. All siding is required to be compatible in style, material, quality, size and within the color palette prevalent in the given section of Brambleton. The addition or replacement of siding in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for type, style, material, quality, location, color, etc. Specific Guidelines 1. When replacing siding, all existing siding on the house is to be replaced at one time. All of the siding on a home must be of the same color, style, size, material and quality. When repairing siding, all efforts must be made to ensure replacement siding is of the same style, color, quality and material to maintain the uniform look. 2. The proposed siding material and trim details are to be similar in appearance to the existing approved siding. 3. The proposed siding color is to be the same as the existing siding color or approvable under the guidelines found under heading of Color Changes. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs showing the house, existing siding and the proposed location of new and/or replacement siding. 2. Where additional siding is proposed, elevation drawings, to scale, to show the location of all areas to be sided. 3. The manufacturer and specific color "name" of both the proposed siding material and a sample, including color chip, if applicable. 4. If possible, samples of the existing siding material and color and those of the adjacent homes. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Siding must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved siding are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 91

92 SIGNS General Considerations No signs, other than real estate signs, security signs or temporary signage, as described below, are permitted on Lots without the prior approval of the Covenants Committee. Placement of signs on Common Areas or rights of way is not permitted. 1. Real Estate Signs. One real estate sign offering a property for sale or rent, not to exceed four (4) square feet in area, may be displayed on a Lot. Signs may only be placed in the front yard and must be removed within one week following the sale or rental of a home. 2. Security Signs. Two (2) security signs, each not exceeding a total of sixty-four (64) square inches, may be posted on the property. Only one such sign may be posted forward of the front plane of the home. The approved location shall be at the front entrance. A second sign may be posted at the rear of the home. Signs may be located within ten feet (10') to the immediate left or right of the front or rear entrance and/or two feet (2') forward of the front entrance. TEMPORARY SIGNAGE General Considerations Signs are to be selected, designed and located so as to provide effective communication while minimizing their visual impact on neighboring properties and the neighborhood. Placement of signs on Common Areas or rights of way is not permitted. Specific Guidelines 1. Political Signs: Two (2) political signs, no larger than 2 x 2, may be posted on a residential Lot. Signs may be posted up to 30 days prior to a pending election and must be removed within five (5) days after the election. 2. Signs shall not obstruct any traffic sight lines. 3. A sign displayed in a window and intended to be read from the exterior of the property must be reviewed and approved. 4. The sign is to be no larger than necessary to accommodate the proposed text. 5. Signs must be well constructed, with good quality materials and must be maintained in an orderly manner at all times. 6. Temporary signage is allowed to be displayed on any Lot for a maximum of 35 days in any calendar year. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Signs must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards and installed in a professional, workmanlike manner. 92

93 SKYLIGHTS General Considerations Skylights require review and approval prior to installation and are to be located such that they are not visible from the front of the dwelling unit.. Skylights are not permitted on the front side of the roof ridge line. Skylights which are constructed flush with the roof line are preferred. Bubble or elevated skylights may be considered and will only be permitted if the following conditions are met: Installation must be on the back of the home and the rear yard must not border a street. The entire fixture must be located below the roof ridge line and the fixture must not be visible from the front of the home. The base must be black or match the color of roof shingles and the maximum height shall not exceed 12 inches (12") from the roof line. Skylights are to be visually integrated with the architecture of the house regarding style, location, size and color. No application is required for the replacement of existing approved skylights of the same size and appearance in the currently approved location. New skylights shall match existing skylights. The installation of skylights in attached and multifamily housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for type, location, color, etc. In the absence of defined project standards the following Specific Guidelines shall apply. Specific Guidelines 1. Skylights shall have a low profile and lie flat on the roof. 2. Skylights shall be installed parallel with the roof ridge and edges. 3. The frame color shall match or be compatible with the roof color. Submission Requirements 1. A drawing or photograph showing the proposed location of the skylight. 2. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of the skylight and complete specifications including dimensions, colors, materials, etc. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Skylights must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved skylight are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 93

94 SOLAR PANELS Solar collectors (panels) require review and approval prior to installation and shall be selected, placed, and installed with the primary goal of minimizing their appearance on the house and every effort must be made to limit visibility from neighboring properties and the street. The quality, design, color, configuration and location of the proposed solar collectors must be compatible with the architecture of the house and of neighboring properties..specific Guidelines 1. All solar collector (panel) installations shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Solar collectors (panels) must be flush-mounted and parallel with the roofline upon which it is installed. 2. All framing, piping, control devices and wiring must be painted to match the color of the roof or the element upon which it is installed. 3. Ground mounted solar collectors must be as small as possible, located in the rear or side yard not facing a street, and screened with sufficient evergreen landscaping, which must be maintained to screen the collector from view of neighboring properties. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines and the location of the proposed solar collectors. 2. A drawing or photographs showing the proposed location of the solar collectors and description of any visible auxiliary equipment and all components. 3. Detailed materials list to include dimensions, colors, and style. 4. Plans of proposed landscaping screening for ground- mounted collectors. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Solar Panels must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved solar panels are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 94

95 SUNROOMS General Considerations Sunroom additions require review and approval by the Covenants Committee and will be treated as a major alteration to a dwelling unit and subject to the same level of review. See heading of Additions/Alterations for additional details and requirements. A sunroom addition shall be compatible with the existing house in style, character, scale, massing and the use of materials, colors and details. In general, sunroom additions to attached housing shall be limited to the options available in accordance with approved project standards established by the builder. In the absence of defined project standards the following Specific Guidelines shall apply. Only sunrooms which are attached to the dwelling unit are permitted. Sunrooms must meet the following additional criteria to be approved. 1. The scale and design must be architecturally compatible with the home and surrounding homes and must be a glass enclosure. 2. There shall be no adverse visual impacts for adjoining properties. The installation of landscape materials to provide a visual screen is encouraged and may be required as a condition of approval. Specific Guidelines 1. The design and location must consider any adverse impact on neighboring properties through either the elimination of privacy or the removal of existing vegetation. 2. Sunroom additions shall be attached directly to the house. Freestanding structures are prohibited. 3. The only permitted locations are at the rear of the home, or on the side of the home that does not face a neighboring property or street. 4. The new roof pitch must be compatible with the existing roof. Shed roof style is not permitted; hip roof style is permitted. 5. New windows and doors are to be the same or compatible with those of the existing house. 6. When located on a deck, the sunroom must be integrated both visually and structurally with the deck. 7. Special attention must be given to the massing of the addition; including the incorporation of structural skirting and/or landscaping to hide the understructure and visually integrate the sunroom with the house. 8. Supplemental landscaping may be required to compensate for the removal of vegetation. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any deck, patio, 95

96 fencing, accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, easements, and the location of the proposed sunroom/greenhouse. Documentation must be in compliance with all local and county zoning ordinances and regulations. 2. Photographs showing the house and the location of the sunroom/greenhouse. 3. Complete plan and elevation drawings, to scale, showing the house and the proposed addition. 4. Detailed construction drawings. 5. A list of all exterior materials and colors. 6. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" of 'off-the-shelf' items, as applicable, including sizes, materials and colors. 7. A landscape plan, as applicable. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Sunrooms must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved sunroom are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 96

97 SWIMMING POOLS General Considerations Swimming Pools require review and approval by the Covenants Committee prior to the start of construction. When planning swimming pools, the size of the property, relationship to adjacent residences, size of the pool and related accessory structures must all be considered. The location of a pool is to be carefully considered to minimize the visual and acoustical impact on adjacent properties. Design and location must visually integrate the structure into its surroundings and take advantage of the screening provided by existing vegetation. Only in-ground swimming pools are permitted. Pools must be located in the rear of the Lot and the size of the pool and appurtenant deck and any ancillary structures must be appropriate for the size of the Lot. Pool fences must conform to the fence guidelines for that section of Brambleton and state/local codes. Higher fences or fences of a different style will only be considered if required by state or county code. Landscape materials may be installed to screen a pool and provide privacy. All applications for pools will be considered on a case-by-case basis and the Committee will consider visual and potential noise impacts for adjoining Lots. Because of limited space, the proximity of Lots and the impact upon neighboring properties, the addition of a swimming pool is not permitted in attached housing. Specific Guidelines 1. Swimming pools shall be located in rear yards as far away from adjacent residences as possible and all elements must be a minimum of five feet (5') from the property line or further if necessary to comply with state or county requirements. No permanent swimming pool shall be located in a front or side yard. 2. Mechanical equipment and other utility accessories must be located so as to minimize the effect on the adjacent property and minimize the acoustical impact to adjacent property Owners in compliance with all local regulations and noise ordinances. All pool equipment, pumps, etc., must be enclosed. Screening is required. 3. Swimming pools are to be screened from adjacent properties by landscaping. 4. No above-ground pools will be permitted. 5. Pool fences shall be required and must comply with local swimming pool ordinances. See heading Fences for more details regarding permitted fence styles and requirements. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, any deck, patio, fencing, accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the proposed location of the swimming pool and accessory structures, including mechanical equipment. 2. Photographs showing the house and the proposed location of the swimming pool. 3. Detailed drawings, to scale, including plans and elevations, construction details, materials and colors of accessory structures. 4. A landscape plan indicating the type and location of proposed landscaping. 5. Drawings or cut sheets of any lighting. Any above-ground enclosure or structure will require review and approval for compatibility with these Design Guidelines. 97

98 TEMPORARY STORAGE CONTAINERS/PODS General Considerations The preferred location for temporary portable storage units is in a private driveway or Common Area parking space. Placement on a private or public street may be considered as long as sidewalks, pedestrians, vehicular traffic or sightlines for vehicular traffic is not impeded. The maximum amount of time that these units may be employed is two (2) weeks in any calendar year. The Covenants Committee must be notified in writing, in advance of the intent to use this storage unit, the date the units will be delivered, and the intended removal date. Send written notification to the following address: Brambleton Community Association Ryan Road, Suite 210 Brambleton, VA Office / Fax Covenants@Brambleton.org TRAMPOLINES Outdoor trampolines may only be placed in a rear yard. An Application is required for any outdoor trampoline. See heading of Recreation and Play Equipment for general considerations, specific guidelines and submission requirements. 98

99 TRASH ENCLOSURES General Considerations Trash enclosures are to be located so as to minimize their impact on adjacent neighbors. The installation of trash enclosures are permitted on single-family detached Lots only. Lot Owner-installed trash enclosures are prohibited in attached and multifamily housing. Specific Guidelines 1. The enclosure must be located along either the rear or side of the house; trash enclosures are prohibited in front yards. 2. The enclosure must be immediately adjacent to the house; if located on the side of the house it must be set back a minimum of four feet (4') from the front of the house and five feet (5 ) from the property line. 3. Generally no more than one enclosure will be permitted on any property. 4. The size of an enclosure is generally limited to accommodate two waste containers, restricted to 4' in height and approximately 4' x 4' in dimension and must screen the trash receptacles from the front and side. 5. The enclosure is to be sturdily constructed of wood, brick, stone or landscaping materials compatible with the adjacent architecture or approved fencing guidelines. 6. The enclosure must be painted or stained to match the adjacent existing material on the home. 7. If visible from the street, the enclosure is to be screened by vegetation. 8. The trash containers, enclosure area, and structure, are to be maintained so that it does not create a visual or environmental nuisance. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, any accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the location of the proposed trash enclosure. 2. Photographs showing the house and site marked to show the location of the proposed enclosure. 3. Include a plan and elevation drawing(s) identifying dimensions, material, and color. 4. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the proposed type and location of vegetation or other screening, existing or proposed. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Trash enclosures must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. 99

100 TREES General Considerations Trees are an integral part of the overall image, character and streetscape of Brambleton and must be protected. The preservation of wooded areas should be maximized through the retention and maintenance of existing trees. Landscaping and the addition of plant materials are important in the screening of items such as pools, decks, patios, fencing, parking areas and utility equipment. Landscaping is also the preferred means to provide visual privacy. The use of native materials is encouraged and planting within established beds, tree rings or curved or swooping landscape beds is required. Examples of the curved landscaped beds can be seen throughout Brambleton in the Common Areas. ALERT RESIDENTS ARE REMINDED TO CALL MISS BEFORE ANY DIGGING PROJECT Trees located within a buffer, tree save area or hedgerow, whether on Lots, within woods or other natural areas, may not be disturbed without specific approval. Certain trees were placed throughout Brambleton to contribute to the overall look of the street and these trees are often referred to as street trees. As these were placed by the Declarant or builder, they may not be cut or relocated without prior written approval from the Covenants Committee. If a street tree trees requires removal because of damage, disease, or as recommended by an arborist, it must be replaced with a tree of a minimum replacement tree size shall be 2 caliper for a deciduous/evergreen tree and 1 ½ caliper for an ornamental tree. No live trees with a diameter in excess of 4 inches (4"), measured 12 inches above ground, nor flowering trees in excess of 2 inches (2") similarly measured, no live vegetation on slopes of more than 20 percent gradient or marked no cut area, landscape preservation area, tree preservation area, conservation area, or wetland on approved plans, may be removed without the prior approval of the Covenants Committee. However, a Lot owner may remove dead trees and certain objectionable plants, including poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, kudzu or other invasive plants. Protected wetland areas on a Lot may not otherwise be disturbed. In no event shall live trees planted by the Declarant or a builder to comply with governmental requirements be cut or relocated without prior written approval from the Covenants Committee. Tree Removal Specific Guidelines 1. Approval is required to remove any tree, whether deciduous or evergreen, whose trunk measures in excess of four inches (4") in diameter when measured at a height of approximately 12 inches from the ground. 2. Approval must be obtained to remove any flowering tree in excess of two inches (2") in diameter when similarly measured. 3. The committee may require the installation of an appropriate replacement as a required 100

101 condition for approving removal of a tree. Minimum replacement tree size shall be 2 caliper for a deciduous/evergreen tree and 1 ½ caliper for an ornamental tree. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, driveway, property lines and the location of existing trees and the tree(s) proposed to be removed. 2. Photographs showing the house and the property identifying the tree(s) to be removed. 3. A description of the tree(s) to be removed and the reason for removal. The tree(s) is be marked with a ribbon or spray paint for easy identification. 4. Information regarding any replacement plantings, if applicable. Planting Trees The planting of native trees is encouraged. Application and review is not required for the installation of individual trees or shrubs on the Lot, provided such plantings at maturity are (appropriately-sized) for the home and Lot and do not interrupt designed drainage patterns and swales. Approval is required for any shrubs or trees which are intended to form a hedge or natural screen which will be more than three feet (3') in height. Landscape screens or barriers may be approvable in order to define private space or block undesirable views. However, the Committee will consider potential for adverse impacts on adjoining Lots, including the disruption of sight lines for adjoining properties and interruption of designed drainage patterns. Landscape screens or barriers are not permitted on front yard Lot lines. Specific Guidelines 1. Trees, shrubs, and other landscaping materials must be located so as not to obstruct significant views from neighboring residences or restrict sight lines for vehicular traffic. 2. Plant materials are to be appropriate in character, habitat, species, size (both at time of installation and maturity) number, and arrangement for their purpose and surroundings. 3. Trees and plant materials must be located in established mulch beds or tree rings. 4. Synthetic trees or other plant materials are prohibited. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Trees must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved or installed landscaping are desired, and if such changes require application and approval, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review prior to making any changes. 101

102 TRELLISES General Considerations Trellises require approval and are to be designed and located so as to be compatible with the existing house in style, character, scale, materials and colors. In general, the addition of a trellis is to be integrated visually and structurally with the rear deck of the house. Freestanding trellises are to be designed to complement the overall composition of the yard. The addition of a trellis in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for location, size, etc. In the absence of defined project standards the following Specific Guidelines shall apply. Specific Guidelines 1. Trellises may be located in side or rear yards as an element of a landscape plan. 2. Size, height, materials, and colors must be harmonious with the size of the property and the architecture of the house and any existing accessory structures such as a deck, patio, fence, etc. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, any deck, patio, fencing, accessory structures, significant vegetation, property lines, and the proposed location of the trellis. 2. Photographs showing the house and the proposed location of the trellis. 3. Drawings, to scale, including plan and elevations, materials and colors. 4. If a prefabricated trellis/arbor is proposed, include a catalogue photograph and/or manufacturer's "cut sheets" with dimensions, materials and colors. 5. Where applicable, provide a planting plan indicating the type and location of proposed landscaping. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Trellises must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to a previously approved trellis are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 102

103 VEGETABLE GARDENS General Considerations Vegetable gardens which conform to the following guidelines do not require approval. One vegetable garden, located in the rear of the home, must not exceed fifty (50) square feet in area. No plant which will exceed the height of three feet (3') at maturity may be planted. Vegetable gardens must be maintained in a neat manner, and all plant debris must be removed and the soil turned at the end of the growing season. A border, not to exceed 24 inches in height may be installed to provide for a raised bed. A rabbit fence or similar fencing may be erected to provide for pest control with the following conditions. Fences must not exceed three feet (3') in height. Fences must be confined within 1 foot of the outer edge of the garden bed; the entire fenced area may not exceed 30 linear feet in area and under no circumstance will this type of fencing be permitted to serve as a property line fence. Fences must be constructed of materials with a low visual impact, using dark metal or natural wood is required. Chain link or barbed wire fences will not be approved under any circumstances or permitted for any use. Black or dark green vinyl coated wire mesh (10 to 16 gauge) may be attached to the interior side of the fence. All fences must be maintained to the highest degree in accordance with the Association s Property Maintenance Standards. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Vegetable gardens and associated materials must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. Vegetable gardens must be maintained in a neat manner and all plant debris must be removed and the soil turned at the end of the growing season. If changes to a previously approved vegetable garden are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 103

104 WALKWAYS/RAMPS General Considerations Approval is required for a change in an existing walkway or the construction of a new walkway. The use of upgrade materials is encouraged e.g., flagstone, brick, or poured concrete. Long stretches of poured concrete are to be avoided. Walkways of wood decking will generally not be approved. Generally, approval is not required for the replacement of an existing, approved walk with exactly the same material. All exterior structures for handicapped access shall be submitted for review and approval for compliance with the Design Guidelines and all local, state and federal regulations. In attached housing, the addition of walkways shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the Builder. Specific Guidelines 1. Walkways are generally to be a minimum of three feet (3') and a maximum of five feet (5 ) in width. 2. Design and location should be carefully considered to minimize the removal of trees or other significant vegetation. Landscaping may be required to compensate for the removal of vegetation. Any disturbed lawn, beds, etc., must be restored. 3. Changes in grade or drainage pattern must not adversely affect adjoining properties. Owner will be responsible for correcting drainage problems when created by construction. 4. Walkways shall be of masonry such as natural-colored concrete, aggregate, brick, stone, slate, flagstone or other approved paving. The use of gravel, chipped stone or other loose materials will generally not be permitted as a primary element of the walkway; they may, however, be permitted as an accent. 5. Slope and handicapped access are to be considered where necessary. 6. The addition of asphalt walkways is prohibited. 7. Walkways are to be set back at least three feet (3') from the property line and installed flush to the ground. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house and any decks, patios, fencing, accessory structures, significant vegetation, driveways, property lines, easements, and the location of the walk. 2. Photographs of the house showing the location of the proposed walk. 3. Construction drawings of paving details, steps, railings and other features, as necessary. 4. A list of all materials and colors. 5. A landscape plan, as applicable. 104

105 Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Walkways/ramps and associated elements must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved walkways/ramps and associated elements are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 105

106 WALLS/RETAINING WALLS/FEATURE WALLS -Revised 4/7/2015 General Considerations Covenants Committee approval is required prior to the installation of retaining or feature walls. These elements shall be designed and located to be harmonious with the architecture of the house and to minimize the impact upon neighboring properties. The retaining wall shall be an appropriate size for the area in which it is to be located and is to be constructed of brick, paver, or natural stone material. Every effort is to be made to eliminate guardrails, which may be required by code, by terracing walls or by reducing wall height. Retaining walls must be constructed according to County ordinances. The installation of retaining walls in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder for location, materials, style and quality. Where the builder has installed a uniform wall feature, no changes to the wall feature are permitted. Specific Guidelines 1. Walls are to be as unobtrusive as possible and built to the minimum height needed and are to be securely constructed with foundation, tiebacks or dead-men as needed. 2. Walls are to be made of durable materials that are compatible in color and appearance with their environment. Depending upon location, brick, decorative concrete pavers or natural stone are appropriate. Concrete walls are not permitted. 3. The top of the wall must be flat and level, or stepped to accommodate a change in grade. 4. Retaining walls must not create any adverse drainage problems. Any drainage problems arising from the retaining wall will be the responsibility of the owner to correct. 5. Depending on size, material and location, retaining walls may require landscaping to soften the visual impact of the wall. 6. Retaining wall design will be in accordance with local codes. Design layout of retaining wall will minimize the impact of guardrails. If required, guardrail design shall be compatible with the architectural style of the adjacent structure and compliant with railing requirements. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, driveway and any accessory structures, including pools, decks, patios, fencing, walks, significant vegetation, property lines and easements. 2. Photographs showing the house and the property. 3. A landscape plan identifying plant materials, accurately located and drawn to scale. 4. For re-grading, retaining walls or terracing, show the existing and proposed grading. Where structural elements are proposed, include drawings showing design and Installation details. 106

107 Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Walls/Retaining Walls/Feature Walls and associated elements must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association 's Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved retaining or feature walls and associated elements are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. WALLS/BORDERS FOR LANDSCAPING BEDS Walls/borders used to define and delineate landscaping beds do not require prior approval from the Covenants Committee if the design criteria are met. Specific Guidelines 1. Must be constructed of natural stone or brick. The use of concrete is prohibited. 2. The use of landscaping timbers is restricted to the rear yard. 3. Black plastic borders are allowed if they do not exceed grass height. 4. They must be keeping in size and scale of the existing landscaping bed Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Walls/Borders for Landscaping Beds and associated elements must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. They must be kept in a neat and orderly fashion. They must be trimmed and edged around during growing season. 107

108 WATER FEATURES/WATER GARDENS/PONDS General Considerations Covenants Committee approval is required for the installation of water features/water gardens or ponds. The use of an aeration device is required to avoid standing water and if not inherent in the design, mosquito control needs to be exercised by design or by screening to eliminate any mosquito breeding. Standing water permits mosquito breeding. A water feature such as a water garden or pond shall be designed and located to be harmonious with the architecture of the house and to minimize the impact upon neighboring properties. It shall be an appropriate size for the area in which it is to be located and is to be constructed of brick, decorative concrete or natural stone material. Applications for water features in attached housing shall be considered on a case by case basis with attention to the impact on neighboring properties. If changes in grade or other conditions which will affect drainage are anticipated, they must be indicated. Generally, approval will be denied if adjoining properties are adversely affected by changes in drainage. Mosquito control must be utilized. If not inherent in the design, mosquito control needs to be exercised by design or by screening to eliminate any mosquito breeding. Specific Guidelines 1. Water Features/Gardens/Ponds are only permitted in rear yards. 2. Only one water feature will be permitted on any property. Submission Requirements 1. A copy of the existing official record plat showing the house, driveway and any accessory structures, including pools, decks, patios, fencing, walks, significant vegetation, property lines and easements. 2. Photographs showing the house and the property. 3. A landscape plan identifying plant materials, accurately located and drawn to scale. 4. If re-grading is required, show the existing and proposed grading. Where structural elements are proposed, include drawings showing design and installation details. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Water Features/Gardens/Ponds and associated elements must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved water features and associated elements are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 108

109 WINDOWS General Considerations Covenants Committee approval is required to change existing or to add new windows. Windows must match, as closely as possible, the existing windows. The size of the window trim and frame must match that of the other windows as closely as possible. All trim details must be duplicated. The color of the window frame and trim must match the existing windows. Approval is not required to replace existing windows provided that replacement windows are identical to the original windows. Application and approval is required for replacement windows which are not identical to the original windows. The addition/replacement of windows, including storm/screen windows, in attached housing shall be in accordance with the approved project standards established by the builder. In the absence of defined project standards the following shall apply. Specific Guidelines Window Additions/Replacements 1. New windows, including sliding or French doors, must be compatible in style and character with existing windows, and their proposed locations must be appropriate to the architecture of the house. 2. Individual replacement windows must match or be compatible with existing windows in design, configuration, material, frame width, and color. 3. Window frames shall be clad or painted in white, dark anodized "bronze or a color consistent with other windows. Mill-finished clear or gold anodized aluminum is not permitted. 4. Windows shall have clear glass. Highly reflective glass tinting is not permitted. Storm/Screen Windows 1. Storm/screen windows must not substantially alter the appearance of the existing windows. 2. When installed over existing windows, storm/screen window frames are to be of the same material and have a similar color as the existing window frames. 3. Additional storm/screen windows must match the type, material, frame width, and color of the existing storm/screen windows. 4. Storm/screen windows must be kept in good repair. Window Additions/Replacements Window dividers (sometimes referred to as mullions or grids) installed in original windows must be retained and replaced with a comparable divider if damaged or missing. Submission Requirements 1. Photographs showing the house, existing windows and doors and the proposed location of new and/or replacement windows. Where new windows are proposed, elevation drawings, drawn to scale and showing the existing house and the proposed location of the windows. 109

110 2. Catalogue photographs or manufacturer's "cut sheets" identifying window type and style, including the specific "name" of the window, if applicable, and dimensions, materials and colors. A sample of the window frame finish and color, if applicable. Maintenance Requirements and future considerations Windows and associated elements must be maintained in keeping with Brambleton Community Association s Property Maintenance Standards. If changes to previously approved windows and associated elements are desired, a new Design Review Application is required and must be submitted for review and approval prior to making any changes. 110

111 WIRES AND CABLES Wires and cables, including those installed to convey radio or television signals, shall be hidden, buried or secured flush with the side of each house so as to minimize their visibility. The wires are to be painted, or covered with material designed for this purpose, in a color to match the surface to which they are attached. 111

112 Miscellaneous Authority and Enforcement Pursuant to Article 9 of the Declaration for Brambleton, the Covenants Committee ("Committee") is directed to adopt Design Guidelines for the Property and review and approve or disapprove the plans for any visible additions, alterations or modifications to the exterior of existing improvements located on the Property in order to ensure the quality and compatibility of the style of improvements on the Property. The Committee may also establish its own applications and procedures, and has the full authority to amend such standards and procedures. Waiver, Amendment and Third Party Benefit The Committee maintains the right from time to time, at its sole discretion, to amend or modify these Guidelines. Neither the Committee, nor its agents, representatives nor employees shall be liable for failure to follow these Guidelines as herein defined. These Guidelines confer no third party benefit or right upon any entity, person, Lot owner or builder. Non-Liability of the Covenants Committee Neither the Committee nor its respective members, Secretary, successors, assigns, agents, representatives, employees or attorneys shall be liable for damages of any type whatsoever, including attorneys' fees, to any applicant by reason of mistake in judgment, negligence or omission arising out of any action of the Committee with respect to any submission or application, or for failure to follow these Guidelines. The role of the Committee is to review and decide upon applications that properly come before it. In considering such applications, it shall review plats of record, the appearance, architectural design and aesthetics of the proposed replacement or improvement, and its compliance with these Design Guidelines. The Committee assumes no responsibility or liability with regard to design or construction, including, without limitation, the civil, structural, mechanical, plumbing or electrical design, methods of construction, or technical suitability of materials. Accuracy of Information Any person submitting an application of any sort to the Committee shall be responsible for verification and accuracy of all components of such submission, including, without limitation, all site dimensions, grades, elevations, utility locations and other pertinent features of the site or plans. Lot Owner and/or Applicant Representation Each Lot Owner whose application is approved in whole or in part by the Committee is responsible to ensure that his/her builder, architect, engineer, contractor and any other such agents and their employees are aware of and comply with these Design Guidelines, and that they further comply with any exceptions, limitations or restrictions imposed by the Committee. 112

113 Conflicts with the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions In the event of a conflict between these Guidelines and the terms of the Declaration, the Declaration shall govern. Brambleton - Use Restriction The Board of Directors of the Brambleton Community Association may from time to time promulgate use restrictions governing the use of Lots and Association common areas. Each Lot Owner should review any such use restrictions to ensure that Lot improvements are in compliance with such restrictions. Regulatory Compliance It is the responsibility of the Lot Owner to obtain all necessary permits and ensure compliance with all applicable governmental regulations and other requirements. Plans/applications submitted for review shall comply with all applicable building codes, zoning regulations and the requirements of all governmental entities having jurisdiction over the building project or property within Brambleton. Regulatory approvals do not pre-empt the design review authority of the Committee, and Committee approval does not incorporate any governmental approvals, which governmental approvals shall be the sole responsibility of the Lot Owner. Design Guidelines and Loudoun County Standards Where the provisions of applicable Loudoun County ordinances or regulations are more restrictive than the provisions of these Guidelines, the County ordinances or regulations shall be controlling. Where the provisions of these Guidelines are more restrictive than the provisions of the applicable Loudoun County ordinances or regulations, then these Guidelines shall be controlling. No variance from Loudoun County ordinances or regulations may be requested unless the prior written approval of the Covenants Committee has been obtained for the application requiring such a variance. Private improvements public rights of way Lot Owners are hereby put on notice that the front property lines of most Lots do not extend to the public street and are typically located a few feet behind the curb and gutter, or public sidewalk. Lot Owners shall not install, construct or place any private facilities or improvements, including but not limited to sprinkler/irrigation systems, fences, walls, landscaping, signs or other decorative improvements and appurtenant facilities within the dedicated public street right-of-way. Loudoun County, the Virginia Department of Transportation and/or the Declarant, as required for bond release and state road acceptance, may, in their sole discretion, without prior notice to the Lot Owner, remove any and all private facilities or improvements located within the dedicated public street right-of-way. 113

114 APPENDICES Appendix I Appendix II Appendix III New Design Review Application with Quick Ref Q&A Fencing Details Storm Door Details Appendix IV Miller & Smith Grand Vista Homes Section 22 Deck/Screened & Open Porch Details Appendix V Additional Resources Lot Owner References Sample Plats Screening Example What Section am I In? Glossary of Terms Do s and Don ts for Plants Native Plants and Aggressive Water Seeking Plants Flag Code Mailbox Repair/Replacement Information Appendix VI Appendix VII Appendix VIII Hearing Guidelines Adopt-a-Spot Guidelines Overlook Lots Van Metre & Camberley Lots 114

115 APPENDIX I DESIGN REVIEW APPLICATION 115

116 Brambleton Community Association Design Review Application In reviewing this application, the Covenants Committee will examine the conformance of the application to the adopted Design Guidelines as well as any covenants or use restrictions in the recorded Declaration. The current Design Guidelines are available on the Brambleton Community website. Name: Section: Lot: Address (and mailing address if different): Date Received: Daytime Phone: Evening Phone: Proposed Start Date: Proposed Completion Date: Work to be done by: Self Contractor Style of Home: Townhome Single Family Golf Course Description of Project: Deck Fence Patio Shed Play Equipment Painting/Staining Awning Gazebo Retaining Walls Landscaping Screened Porch Sunroom/Greenhouse Pergola Other: Project 1 Proposed / Existing Project 2 Proposed / Existing Project 3 Proposed / Existing Dimensions: Color: Materials: Dimensions: Color: Materials: Dimensions: Color: Materials: Application must include the following: 1. Property plat with project drawn to scale. 2. Any painting/staining requests must include a color sample. 3. Any relevant drawings, photos, brochures, elevations, relationship to existing structures, dimensions, etc. 4. Signatures of all adjacent and visually affected neighbors. Their signatures indicate their awareness of your proposed plans, not their approval. I am aware that my neighbor is planning an exterior modification to his/her lot. I have reviewed the application and will notify the Association in writing within 72 hours of signing this application if I have any concerns about the project. I understand that my concerns may be taken into consideration during the review process but they are not binding on any decision made by the Covenants Committee. I also understand that I have the right to appeal the Committee s ruling in accordance with the policy and procedures as outlined in the Declaration for Brambleton and the Design Guidelines. Signature: Address: Section: Lot: Date: Signature: Address: Section: Lot: Date: Signature: Address: Section: Lot: Date: Signature: Address: Section: Lot: Date: Signature: Address: Section: Lot: Date: Signature: Address: Section: Lot: Date:

117 Owners' Acknowledgments: I/we understand and agree to the following: 1. that there are architectural requirements and standards addressed in the Design Guidelines and the Declaration and a review process established by the Board of Directors and I agree to follow them. 2. that approval by the Covenants Committee shall in no way be construed as to pass judgment on the correctness of the location, structural design, suitability of water flow or drainage, location of utilities, or other qualities of the proposed change being reviewed. 3. that approval by the Covenants Committee shall in no way be construed as to pass judgment on whether the proposed change being reviewed is in compliance with the applicable building and zoning codes of the county in which the property is located. 4. that approval of any particular plans and specifications or design shall not be construed as a waiver of the right of the Covenants Committee to disapprove such plans and specifications, or any elements or features thereof, in the event such plans are subsequently submitted for use in any other instance. 5. that no work on the proposed change shall begin until written approval of the Covenants Committee has been received by me; that, if work is begun prior to approval, I may be required to return the property to its former condition at my own expense if this application is disapproved wholly or in part; and I may be required to pay all legal expenses incurred. 6. that there shall be no deviations from the plans, specifications, and location approved by the Covenants Committee without prior written consent of the Covenants Committee; any variation from the original application must be resubmitted for approval. 7. that I authorize members of the Covenants Committee or managing agent to enter upon my Property to make routine inspection(s). 8. that construction or alterations in accordance with the approved plans and specifications must commence within 6 months of the approved date of this application and be completed within 12 months of the approved date, otherwise the approval by the Covenants Committee shall be deemed conclusively to have lapsed and to have been withdrawn. 9. that it is my responsibility and obligation to obtain all required building permits, to contact Miss Utility, and to construct the improvements in a workmanlike manner in conformance with all applicable building and zoning codes. The approval of the Covenants Committee satisfies only the requirements of the Brambleton Community Association. 10. that I am responsible for any damage and all cost to repair green space or community property that result from the proposed modification. 11. that it is my responsibility and obligation to ensure that modifications are only made within the confines of my property and may not conflict with any recorded easements, including sight distance easements, and I am solely responsible for ascertaining the location of such property lines and easements. The Brambleton Community Association, its Board of Directors, Covenants Committee, employees or agents accept no responsibility for violations of recorded easements and clearance requirements. Additionally, modifications may not adversely affect the drainage in the area so as to impact neighboring lots. Owner/Applicant Signature Date Co-Owner/Applicant Signature Date Please note: A letter with a reporting of the Committee s decision will be mailed to you after the Committee review. [Committee Use Only] Return this form to: Brambleton Community Association Ryan Road, Suite 210 Brambleton, VA Date of Review: Approved Covenants Committee Signatures: Denied Approved with Conditions Conditions/Comments: Decisions are subject to appeal by affected homeowners in accordance with the provisions outlined in Policy Resolution #5.

118 BRAMBLETON COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Application For Operation Of Professional Offices or Business Activities To: Covenants Committee Brambleton Community Association Ryan Road, Suite 210 Brambleton, VA In accordance with the Declaration for Brambleton and Policy Resolution No. 10, I/we hereby apply for specific approval from Brambleton Community Association to operate a professional office or business activity in or on part of a lot located as described herin: Name: Lot: Phase/Sec.: Address: Applicant phone: Mailing Address: (if different) Business Name: Website: Purpose and Description of Professional Office or Business Activity: Will Vehicles be used for operation? Yes/No If so, type and number: Type of Dwelling (single family detached/attached; condominium) Please describe the methods of advertising or your marketing strategy: Will any related materials be stored on property? Yes / No If so, please explain: Describe any parking requirements and how they will be met. Explain any anticipated impact on neighborhood traffic patterns, parking or the neighborhood in general: Describe the nature and frequency of deliveries: Is there a requirement for special use permits or licenses? Yes / No If so, please explain and attaché a copy to this application:

119 Total number of employees: How many non-residents? Hours of Operation: Number of Clients served at any one time: If the primary service of the professional office or business is the care or custody of children, please indicate the number of children, under the age of 10 residing in the home: Date requested for beginning of professional office or business activity? ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF NEIGHBORING OWNERS: The Applicant is required to obtain the signatures of all adjacent Lot Owners, the Lot Owners directly across from the applicant s Lot, and impacted neighbors. Other signatures may be required by the Covenants Committee or the Board of Directors at their discretion. This acknowledgment indicates an awareness of the intent to operate a professional office or business activity and does not indicate approval or disapproval. Any comments regarding the operation of the proposed in-home business should be discussed with the applicant and if responses from the applicant are not satisfactory, should be forwarded to the managing agent within seven days for presentation with the application. Name: Address: Lot Signature: Name: Address: Lot Signature: Name: Address: Lot Signature: Name: Address: Lot Signature: Name: Address: Lot Signature: Name: Address: Lot Signature: Name: Address: Lot Signature: Name: Address: Lot Signature: Name: Address: Lot Signature: Name: Address: Lot Signature:

120 Q &A - Brambleton s Design Review Application Process Q. Why do I need to apply for improvements on my property? A. As a planned community Brambleton has recorded covenants which require its owners to take certain actions to preserve the aesthetic nature and character of the community. One of these required actions is that owners must seek approval from the Covenants Committee prior to making exterior modifications. Q. How do I apply? A. To submit a proposed exterior modification to the Covenants Committee for review, an owner must complete the Design Review Application. This form is available on the Association s website, in our office or in response to requests submitted to covenants@brambleton.org. Brambleton s Design Guidelines contain specific information on a variety of exterior modifications and owners should familiarize themselves with the guidelines related to their proposed improvement before completing a Design Review Application. Completed Applications may be submitted via to covenants@brambleton.org, by fax to or to the management office at Ryan Road, Suite 210, Brambleton A drop box is located outside of our lobby entrance for after-hours submissions and materials are retrieved each business morning. Q. Who reviews my application? A. Brambleton s Covenants Committee members are homeowners that have been appointed by the Board of Directors. The Committee members volunteer their time to meet once each month to review and render decisions on proposed exterior modifications. Q. When will my application be reviewed and when will I receive the decision information? A. Covenants Committee meetings are held once each month. Their meeting schedule is published on the Association s website and in our monthly e-newsletter. Any changes are shared at and on Brambleton Community Association s Facebook page. Decision letters are mailed within the week of the meeting. Decision letters for Applications that have been approved as submitted will be mailed via First Class US Mail to the Brambleton address of the applicant. Decision letters for Applications which have been approved with conditions or denied must be sent via Certified Return Receipt Mail so that the Association has proof of mailing. As a courtesy, a copy of the letter will also be sent via First Class US Mail. To obtain decision information prior to receipt of the letter, applicants may submit an request to covenants@brambleton.org on the business day following the Committee meeting.

121 Q. Do I have to go to the meeting? A. Applicants are not required to attend the Covenants Committee meeting to have their application reviewed. The Committee meeting is an open meeting of the Association and residents are welcome to attend. For applications received three days prior to the scheduled meeting, staff will review the application and contact owners to request additional information to complete the application. For projects with major construction, unique or complex features, staff or the applicant may initiate a request for a review appointment with the Covenants Committee. Q. What if I want an expedited review, or want to submit my Application on the day of a meeting? A. Walk-in applications are accepted at the meeting; please note that the Committee may not be able to review with you directly as their agenda typically includes scheduled appointments and business items. In response to requests for expedited review, the Committee members have agreed to perform an expedited review of applications outside of their regularly scheduled meetings if the following conditions are met; Review outside of a meeting will be limited to the first ten applications submitted for expedited review each month and; Applications received with request for expedited review will be reviewed by the Covenants Committee at one time in the intervening weeks between regularly scheduled monthly meetings typically 2 weeks after the last meeting and 2 weeks before the next meeting and; All seven members must be available to perform the review; All seven members must agree unanimously to approve the application and; Any one member may opt to defer review until the next regularly scheduled Covenants Committee meeting; The timeframe for response to a request for expedited review varies. The Committee members will make every effort to provide a timely response however, as the Committee members are volunteers, not employees of the Association, their availability outside of a meeting is not certain. Please be aware that not every request for expedited review can be honored. Applications which cannot be reviewed in an expedited manner will automatically be referred to the next regularly scheduled Covenants Committee meeting. If you have questions or need more information about the Design Review Application process, or any other Covenants related matter, please contact covenants@brambleton.org or

122 APPENDIX II-A STANDARD FENCE DETAIL SPACED PICKET FENCE 116

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124 APPENDIX II-B STANDARD FENCE DETAIL SPACED PICKET FENCE WITH MOUNT VERNON DIP 117

125

126 APPENDIX II-C STANDARD FENCE DETAIL ALUMINUM/IRON 118

127 TYPICAL ALUMINUM / IRON FENCE DETAIL (not to scale)

128 APPENDIX II-D & II-D(2) STANDARD FENCE DETAIL VERTICAL BOARD WITH LATTICE TOP (For Miller and Smith Single Family Detached Homes and Certain Miller and Smith Attached Town Homes Only) 119

129

130 APPENDIX III APPROVED STORM DOOR STYLES 120

131 STORM DOOR DETAIL Five acceptable full view style storm doors are illustrated below. Door 1 is the preferred style. Door 2 has a wide border, Door 3 is a style which can either have removable glass and screen panels or which can have self-storage of glass or a screen in the lower panel, Door 4 has a kick plate and Door 5 has a wide border and kick plate. Door 1 Door 2 Door 3 Door 4 Door 5

132 APPENDIX IV Miller & Smith Grand Vista Homes Section 22 Deck, Screened & Open Porch Details 121

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137 APPENDIX V ADDITIONAL RESOURCES 122

138 Sample Plats Example of Single Family Attached Example of Single Family Detached Example of Single Family Attached

139 Screening Example 120

140 What Section Am I In? From select Assessment Info Enter the house number for the subject property See the Legal Description for the Section Number Sec.

141 ABOUT THE NATIVE PLANTS FOR CONSERVATION, RESTORATION AND LANDSCAPING PROJECT This project is a collaboration between the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Virginia Native Plant Society. VNPS chapters across the state helped to fund the 2011 update to this brochure. The following partners have provided valuable assistance throughout the life of this project: of Environmental Quality, Coastal Zone Management Department of Transportation FOR MORE INFORMATION Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation Natural Heritage Program FOR A LIST OF NURSERIES THAT PROPAGATE NATIVE SPECIES, CONTACT: Virginia Native Plant Society 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2 Boyce, VA vnpsofc@shentel.net FOR A LIST OF NURSERIES IN A PARTICULAR REGION OF VIRGINIA, CONTACT: The Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association 383 Coal Hollow Road Christiansburg, VA vnla@verizon.net To search for species in VNLA member catalogs, visit: ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY OF THE FLORA OF VIRGINIA PROJECT. Illustrators: Lara Gastinger, Roy Fuller and Michael Terry. To learn more, visit: 9/2011 Native Plants for Conservation, Restoration & Landscaping Virginia Piedmont Region WHAT ARE NATIVES? Native species evolved within specific regions and dispersed throughout their range without known human involvement. They form the primary component of the living landscape and provide food and shelter for native animal species. Native plants co-evolved with native animals over many thousands to millions of years and have formed complex and interdependent relationships. Our native fauna depend on native flora to provide food and cover. Many animals require specific plants for their survival. BENEFITS OF NATIVE PLANTS Using native species in landscaping reduces the expense of maintaining cultivated landscapes and minimizes the likelihood of introducing new invasive species. It may provide a few unexpected benefits as well. Native plants often require less water, fertilizer and pesticide, thus adding fewer chemicals to the landscape and maintaining water quality in nearby rivers and streams. Fewer inputs mean time and money saved for the gardener. Native plants increase the presence of desirable wildlife, such as birds and butterflies, and provide sanctuaries for these animals as they journey between summer and winter habitats. The natural habitat you create with native plants can become an outdoor classroom for children, or a place for you to find peace and quiet after a busy day. Native plants evoke a strong sense of place and regional character. For example, live oak and magnolia trees are strongly associated with the Deep South. Redwood trees characterize the Pacific Northwest. Saguaro cacti call to mind the deserts of the Southwest. BUYING AND GROWING NATIVE PLANTS More gardeners today are discovering the benefits of native plants and requesting them at their local garden centers. Because of this increased demand, retailers are offering an ever-widening selection of vigorous, nursery-propagated natives. Once you ve found a good vendor for native plants, the next step is choosing appropriate plants for a project. One of the greatest benefits of designing with native plants is their adaptation to local conditions. However, it is important to select plants with growth requirements that best match conditions in the area to be planted. If you re planning a project using native plant species, use the list in this brochure to learn which plants grow in your region of Virginia. Next, study the minimum light and moisture requirements for each species, noting that some plants grow well under a variety of conditions. Many of the recommended species are well-suited to more than one of these categories. For more information, refer to field guides and publications on local natural history for color, shape, height, bloom times and specific wildlife value of the plants that grow in your region. Visit a nearby park, natural area preserve, forest or wildlife management area to learn about common plant associations, spatial groupings and habitat conditions. For specific recommendations and advice about project design, consult a landscape or garden design specialist with experience in native plants. WHAT ARE NON-NATIVE PLANTS? Sometimes referred to as exotic, alien, or nonindigenous, non-native plants are species introduced, intentionally or accidentally, into a new region by humans. Over time, many plants and animals have expanded their ranges slowly and without human assistance. As people began cultivating plants, they brought beneficial and favored species along when they moved into new regions or traded with people in distant lands. Humans thus became a new pathway, enabling many species to move into new locations. WHAT ARE INVASIVE PLANTS? Invasive plants are introduced species that cause health, economic or ecological damage in their new range. More than 30,000 species of plants have been introduced to the United States since the time of Columbus. Most were introduced intentionally, and many provide great benefits to society as agricultural crops and landscape ornamentals. Some were introduced accidentally, for example, in ship ballast, in packing material and as seed contaminants. Of these introduced species, fewer than 3,000 have naturalized and become established in the United States outside cultivation. Of the 3,500 plant species in Virginia, more than 800 have been introduced since the founding of Jamestown. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation currently lists more than 100 of these species as invasive. In the United States, invasive species cause an estimated $120 billion in annual economic losses, including costs to manage their effects. Annual costs and damages arising from invasive plants alone are estimated at $34 billion. NATIVE PLANTS VS. INVASIVE PLANTS Invasive plants have competitive advantages that allow them to disrupt native plant communities and the wildlife dependent on them. For example, kudzu (Pueraria montana) grows very rapidly and overtops forest canopy, thus shading other plant species from the sunlight necessary for their survival. A tall invasive wetland grass, common reed (Phragmites australis ssp. australis), invades and dominates marshes, reducing native plant diversity and sometimes eliminating virtually all other species. Invasive species can marginalize or even cause the loss of native species. With their natural host plants gone, many insects disappear. And since insects are an essential part of the diet of many birds, the effects on the food web become far reaching. Habitats with a high occurrence of invasive plants become a kind of green desert. Although green and healthy in appearance, far fewer native species of plants and animals are found in such radically altered places.

142 Virginia Piedmont Region Rocky falls and rapids on the Potomac, Rappahannock and James rivers mark a transition from the softer sediments of the Coastal Plain to the resistant bedrock underlying the Piedmont. Moving west, the rolling hills of Virginia s Piedmont Plateau steadily climb from the fall line to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which form the western boundary of the Piedmont. The hills of the Piedmont become steeper to the west, where monadnocks remnants of ancient mountains rise above the farms and forests. The Piedmont is known for moderately fertile but highly eroded clay soils that formed from deeply weathered bedrock. Most of this land was converted to farmland during European settlement. Today, however, mixed pine-oak-hickory forests arising from abandoned farmlands are found throughout the region. Recommended Uses W = Wildlife H = Horticulture & landscaping C = Conservation & restoration D = Domestic livestock forage Minimum Light Requirements S = Shade P = Partial sun F = Full sun Moisture Requirements L = Low moisture M = Moderate moisture H = High moisture Some species are marked with the following footnote symbols: + May be aggressive in a garden setting * Due to the rarity and sensitivity of habitat in Virginia, these species are recommended for horticultural use only. Planting these species in natural areas could be detrimental to the survival of native populations. Scientific Name Common Name Uses Light Moisture W H C D S P F L M H Herbs Achillea millefolium common yarrow Ageratina altissima white snakeroot Amsonia tabernaemontana blue star Anemone quinquefolia wood anemone Anemonella thalictroides rue anemone Antennaria neglecta field pussytoes Aquilegia canadensis wild columbine Arisaema triphyllum Jack-in-the-pulpit Aruncus dioicus goatsbeard Asarum canadense+ wild ginger Asclepias incarnata swamp milkweed Asclepias syriaca+ common milkweed Asclepias tuberosa butterfly weed Baptisia australis* blue wild indigo Baptisia tinctoria yellow wild-indigo Bidens cernua+ nodding beggar-ticks Chamaecrista fasciculata+ partridge pea Chelone glabra white turtlehead Chrysogonum virginianum green and gold Chrysopsis mariana Maryland golden aster Cimicifuga racemosa black cohosh Clitoria mariana Maryland butterfly pea Conoclinium coelestinum blue mistflower Coreopsis lanceolata longstalk coreopsis Coreopsis tinctoria golden tickseed Coreopsis tripteris tall coreopsis Coreopsis verticillata threadleaf coreopsis Delphinium tricorne dwarf larkspur Desmodium paniculatum narrow-leaf tick trefoil Dicentra cucullaria Dutchman s breeches Dicentra eximia wild bleeding heart Doellingeria umbellata flat-top white aster Equisetum hyemale horsetail Eupatoriadelphus fistulosus Joe-pye weed Eupatorium perfoliatum common boneset Eurybia divaricata white wood aster Geranium maculatum wild geranium Gillenia trifoliata bowman s root Helenium autumnale sneezeweed Helianthus angustifolius narrow-leaf sunflower Helianthus decapetalus ten-petaled sunflower Helianthus divaricatus woodland sunflower Heliopsis helianthoides oxeye sunflower Hepatica nobilis var. obtusa round-lobed hepatica Heuchera americana alumroot Hibiscus moscheutos Eastern rosemallow Iris cristata dwarf crested iris Iris virginica Virginia blue flag Lespedeza capitata round-head bush clover Liatris pilosa var. pilosa grass-leaf blazing star Liatris squarrosa plains blazing star Lilium canadense Canada lily Lilium superbum Turk s cap lily Lobelia cardinalis cardinal flower Lobelia siphilitica great blue lobelia Lupinus perennis lupine Maianthemum racemosum false Solomon s seal Mertensia virginica Virginia bluebells Mimulus ringens monkeyflower Monarda fistulosa wild bergamot Monarda punctata Horse-mint Nymphaea odorata American water lily Oenothera fruticosa sundrops Opuntia humifusa Eastern prickly-pear Packera aurea+ golden ragwort Peltandra virginica arrow arum Penstemon canescens gray beardtongue Penstemon digitalis foxglove beardtongue Penstemon laevigatus smooth beardtongue Phlox divaricata woodland phlox Phlox paniculata summer phlox Phlox subulata moss phlox Physostegia virginiana+ obedient plant Podophyllum peltatum+ mayapple Polemonium reptans Jacob s ladder Polygonatum biflorum Solomon s seal Pontederia cordata pickerel weed Pycnanthemum incanum hoary mountain mint Pycnanthemum tenuifolium narrow-leaved mountain mint Rhexia virginica Virginia meadow-beauty Rudbeckia fulgida early coneflower Rudbeckia hirta black eyed Susan Rudbeckia laciniata cut-leaved coneflower Rudbeckia triloba three-lobed coneflower Sagittaria latifolia broadleaf arrowhead Salvia lyrata+ lyre-leaf sage Sanguinaria canadensis bloodroot Saururus cernuus lizard s tail Saxifraga virginiensis early saxifrage Sedum ternatum wild stonecrop Senna marilandica Maryland wild senna Silene virginica fire pink Silphium perfoliatum cup plant Solidago caesia bluestem goldenrod Solidago odora sweet goldenrod Solidago pinetorum+ pineywoods goldenrod Solidago puberula downy goldenrod Solidago rugosa+ rough-stemmed goldenrod Symphyotrichum concolor Eastern silvery aster Symphyotrichum cordifolium heart-leaved aster Symphyotrichum pilosum frost aster Thalictrum dioicum early meadowrue Tiarella cordifolia foamflower Tradescantia virginiana+ Virginia spiderwort Trillium grandiflorum white trillium Verbena hastata blue vervain Vernonia noveboracensis New York ironweed Viola cucullata marsh blue violet Viola pedata bird s foot violet Viola pubescens yellow violet Yucca filamentosa common yucca Ferns & Fern Allies Adiantum pedatum maidenhair fern Asplenium platyneuron ebony spleenwort Athyrium asplenioides Southern ladyfern Botrychium virginianum rattlesnake fern Dennstaedtia punctilobula+ hay-scented fern Dryopteris intermedia evergreen wood-fern Dryopteris marginalis marginal shield-fern Onoclea sensibilis+ sensitive fern Osmunda cinnamomea cinnamon fern Osmunda regalis royal fern Polystichum acrostichoides Christmas fern Thelypteris palustris marsh fern Grasses, Sedges & Rushes Agrostis perennans autumn bentgrass Andropogon gerardii big bluestem Andropogon glomeratus bushy bluestem Andropogon virginicus broomsedge Arundinaria tecta switch cane Carex crinita long hair sedge Carex lurida sallow sedge Carex pensylvanica Pennsylvania sedge Carex plantaginea plantain-leaved sedge Carex stricta tussock sedge Chasmanthium latifolium+ river oats, spanglegrass Danthonia sericea silky oatgrass Danthonia spicata poverty oatgrass Scientific Name Common Name Uses Light Moisture W H C D S P F L M H Dichanthelium clandestinum deer-tongue Dichanthelium commutatum variable panicgrass Dulichium arundinaceum dwarf bamboo Elymus hystrix bottlebrush grass Elymus virginicus Virginia wild rye Juncus canadensis Canada rush Juncus effusus soft rush Leersia oryzoides rice cutgrass Panicum virgatum switch grass Saccharum giganteum giant plumegrass Schizachyrium scoparium little bluestem Scirpus cyperinus woolgrass bulrush Sorghastrum nutans Indian grass Sparganium americanum American bur-reed Tridens flavus redtop Tripsacum dactyloides gama grass Typha latifolia broad-leaved cattail Vines Bignonia capreolata crossvine Campsis radicans trumpet creeper Celastrus scandens climbing bittersweet Clematis virginiana virgin s bower Lonicera sempervirens trumpet honeysuckle Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper Passiflora incarnata Purple passionflower Shrubs & Small Trees Alnus serrulata hazel alder Aronia arbutifolia red chokeberry Aronia melanocarpa black chokeberry Castanea pumila Allegheny chinkapin Ceanothus americanus New Jersey tea Cephalanthus occidentalis buttonbush Cornus amomum silky dogwood Crataegus crus-galli cockspur hawthorn Eubotrys racemosa fetterbush Euonymus americanus American strawberry-bush Gaultheria procumbens wintergreen Gaylussacia baccata black huckleberry Hamamelis virginiana witch hazel Hydrangea arborescens wild hydrangea Hypericum prolificum shrubby St. Johnswort Ilex decidua deciduous holly Ilex verticillata winterberry Kalmia latifolia mountain laurel Lindera benzoin spicebush Physocarpus opulifolius ninebark Rhododendron catawbiense Catawba rhododendron Rhododendron maximum great rhododendron Rhododendron periclymenoides pinxter flower Rhododendron viscosum swamp azalea Rhus aromatica fragrant sumac Rhus copallinum winged sumac Rosa carolina pasture rose Rubus allegheniensis Alleghany blackberry Salix humilis prairie willow Salix sericea silky willow Sambucus canadensis common elderberry Staphylea trifolia bladdernut Vaccinium corymbosum highbush blueberry Vaccinium stamineum deerberry Viburnum dentatum Southern arrow-wood viburnum Viburnum nudum possum-haw viburnum Viburnum prunifolium black-haw viburnum Medium Trees Amelanchier arborea downy serviceberry Amelanchier canadensis Canada serviceberry Aralia spinosa devil s walkingstick Asimina triloba paw paw Carpinus caroliniana American hornbeam Cercis canadensis Eastern redbud Chionanthus virginicus fringetree Cornus alternifolia alternate-leaf dogwood Cornus florida flowering dogwood Crataegus viridis green hawthorn Ilex opaca American holly Magnolia virginiana sweetbay magnolia Morus rubra red mulberry Ostrya virginiana Eastern hop-hornbeam Prunus americana American wild plum Rhus glabra smooth sumac Rhus typhina staghorn sumac Salix nigra black willow Large Trees Acer negundo ash-leaf maple Acer rubrum red maple Acer saccharum sugar maple Aesculus flava yellow buckeye Betula lenta sweet birch Betula nigra river birch Carya cordiformis bitternut hickory Carya glabra pignut hickory Carya ovata shagbark hickory Carya tomentosa mockernut hickory Diospyros virginiana persimmon Fagus grandifolia American beech Fraxinus americana white ash Fraxinus pensylvanica green ash Juglans nigra black walnut Juniperus virginiana Eastern red cedar Liquidambar styraciflua sweetgum Liriodendron tulipifera tulip poplar Nyssa sylvatica black gum Oxydendrum arboreum sourwood Pinus echinata shortleaf pine Pinus rigida pitch pine Pinus strobus white pine Pinus taeda loblolly pine Pinus virginiana Virginia pine Platanus occidentalis sycamore Prunus serotina wild black cherry Quercus alba white oak Quercus bicolor swamp white oak Quercus coccinea scarlet oak Quercus falcata Southern red oak Quercus ilicifolia bear oak Quercus michauxii swamp chestnut oak Quercus muehlenbergii chinkapin oak Quercus palustris pin oak Quercus phellos willow oak Quercus prinus chestnut oak Quercus rubra Northern red oak Quercus stellata post oak Quercus velutina black oak Robinia pseudoacacia black locust Sassafras albidum sassafras Tilia americana American basswood Tsuga canadensis Eastern hemlock

143 APPENDIX VI HEARING GUIDELINES 123

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