Architectural Design Guidelines Prepared by the Architectural Review Committee of the Peachtree East Homeowners Association, Inc.

Transcription

1 Architectural Design Guidelines Prepared by the Architectural Review Committee of the Peachtree East Homeowners Association, Inc. I. Introduction Since the original Architectural Review Committee (the developer) was lax in enforcing the covenants of this community, the newly formed Architectural Review Committee (home owners) will not attempt to evaluate all previous architectural improvements and determine if they were approved by the previous Architectural Review Committee (the developer). The current Architectural Review Committee is therefore granting a one-time exemption to all Peachtree East homeowners for their previous improvements. All permanent architectural improvements that were done prior to October 1, 2002 are therefore approved. All online versions of this document are derived from the official document - in case of differences, the version marked FINAL is the version to be used. The Peachtree East web master will endeavor to keep the online copy current and correct, but no guarantee is given. These guidelines are secondary to and supplement the declaration of covenants, (Peachtree East Disclosure Statement Exhibit 2 Declaration, Article V, Section 1, Architectural Review). For more information about accepted improvements to your home, consult the covenants as well as this document. The primary purpose of these guidelines is to familiarize homeowners at Peachtree East with the objectives, scope and application of design standards and guidelines which will be employed to maintain the aesthetic appearance and environmental quality of the Peachtree East community. The guidelines enumerate specific design standards and have been adopted by the Architectural Review Committee. This document also explains the application and review process, which must be adhered to by homeowners for any exterior modifications or changes to their homes or lots, which are subject to approval by the Homeowners Association. These guidelines will serve as a valuable reference resource and will assist homeowners in preparing acceptable applications for review by the Architectural Review Committee. All homeowners are encouraged to familiarize themselves with its contents and to retain the guidelines for future use. 1

2 II. Design Review Goals The goals of the Architectural Review Committee and these design guidelines are as follows: - To maintain consistency with the overall design concept for the community. - To promote harmonious architectural and environmental design qualities and features. - To promote and enhance the visual and aesthetic appearance of the community. The enforcement of design standards not only enhances the physical appearance of a community but also protects and preserves property values. Homeowners who reside in association communities that enforce design covenants are protected from actions of neighbors, which can detract from the physical appearance of the community and in some cases, diminish property values. In fact, surveys of homeowners living in association communities consistently reveal that this was an important consideration in their decision to purchase a home. The Architectural Review Committee shall be responsible for enforcing the Association's Design Guidelines with respect to exterior modifications to homes and lots proposed by lot owners. The Committee shall review and approve (or disapprove) applications submitted by lot owners for visible exterior additions, alterations or modifications to a home or lot. The Committee's review process shall be governed by the Design Guidelines promulgated by the Architectural Review Committee. III. Alterations Requiring Review and Approval by the Architectural Review Committee Essentially, all changes, permanent or temporary, to the exterior appearance of a building or lot are subject to review and approval by the Architectural Review Committee. The review process is not limited to major additions or alterations, such as adding a room, deck, or patio. It includes such minor items as changes in color and materials. Approval is also required when an existing item is to be removed. There are a number of exceptions to this otherwise inclusive review requirement. 1. Building exteriors may be repainted or restained provided that there is no color change from the original builder-approved scheme. Similarly, exteriorbuilding components may be repaired or replaced so long as there is no change in the type of material and color. 2. Landscape improvements will not require an application. This includes foundation plantings, single specimen plantings, accepted mulch bed edging and landscape timbers. In general, landscape improvements of a small scale which do not materially alter the appearance of the lot, involve a change in 2

3 topography or grade and which are not of sufficient scale to constitute a natural structure will be exempt from the design review process. The installation of in-ground water sprinkler systems will not require an application. If there is any doubt as to whether or not a proposed exterior change is exempt from design review and approval, homeowners should first seek clarification from the Architectural Review Committee before proceeding with the improvement. IV. Design Review Criteria 1. Design Compatibility. The proposed modification or improvement should match the architectural characteristics of the applicant's house, and be compatible with adjoining houses and the neighborhood setting. Compatibility is defined as similarity in architectural style, quality of workmanship and similar use of materials, color and construction details. 2. Scale. The scale of the proposed improvement should relate to the size of the applicant's home, the location and size of the lot, adjoining homes and surroundings. This criterion applies to both structural and landscape modifications. 3. Impact on Neighbors. The proposed improvement should relate favorably to the landscape, the applicant's home, adjacent homes and the neighborhood. Consideration will be given to both visual and functional impact on neighbors. Visual impact refers to the aesthetic appearance of the proposed improvement, which includes consideration of design quality, scale, location and architectural compatibility. Functional impact refers to such concerns as view, sunlight, ventilation and drainage. Examples of adverse functional impacts include structural additions which would cause a material loss of sunlight or ventilation to a neighboring dwelling, and an alteration in topography, which would change natural drainage patterns to the detriment of a neighboring property. 4. Color and Materials. Continuity or compatibility of color and finishing materials with the original construction and surrounding dwellings will be a specific consideration in evaluating the appropriateness of proposed improvements. 5. Relationship to Environment. Proposed improvements should not have a negative impact on the natural environment. The removal of trees or other vegetation, grading and other topographical alterations will be assessed for potential adverse impacts, such as material change in the rate and/or direction of storm water run-off and soil erosion. 3

4 V. Application and Review Procedures Application and review procedures used by the Architectural Review Committee are detailed below. 1. Applications. All applications for proposed improvements must be submitted in writing using the application form (APPENDIX A) authorized by the Architectural Review Committee. A copy of the improvements application form is also available on the Peachtree East community website. 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, homeowners should deliver applications to a member of the Architectural Review Committee. 2. Supporting Documents. The application must include a complete and accurate description of the proposed improvement(s). In order to permit evaluation by the Architectural Review Committee, supporting exhibits will frequently be required. Exhibits may include site plans showing the location and dimensions of the proposed improvement; architectural drawings or plans, as applicable; landscape plan; material and/or color samples, etc. The design guidelines and application form provide guidance with respect to supporting documentation required for various types of improvements. 3. Timeframe for Completion of the Review. The Architectural Review Committee is required to approve or disapprove any proposed improvement within sixty days after the receipt of a properly completed application. However, the sixty-day review period will only commence upon the receipt of a complete application form, including any required exhibits. It is therefore advisable for homeowners contemplating substantial improvements to first ensure that they are aware of all required supporting documentation prior to submitting a design review application. Routine processing typically includes the following steps: a. An application is submitted to a member of the Architectural Review Committee. b. The Committee member forwards the application to the chairman of the Architectural Review Committee. If the application is incomplete, the chairman of the Architectural Review Committee communicates with the applicant, by telephone where possible. The chairman forwards the application to the Architectural Review Committee members when the application is complete. 4

5 c. The Architectural Review Committee meets either in person or by phone or e- mail to discuss any concerns or issues related to the application. The Committee may involve the Board of Directors as needed on issues where this Guideline document does not address the specifics of the application. The committee votes and agrees on approval or disapproval of the application. d. Architectural Review Committee chairman informs the applicant in writing of the Committee's decision. e. Applicants may request the Architectural Review Committee reconsider disapproval decisions (see "Reconsideration Procedure" below). f. Approved work must commence within 6 months of the date of approval, and must be completed within 6 months of the commencement of work. For projects which are not completed within the initial construction time period, an applicant can apply to the Architectural Review Committee to extend the construction time period for an additional 6 months. Incomplete work, which continues beyond the 6-month maximum construction time period, must be removed within 30 days of the termination of the construction time period. g. As a final step in the application process, the applicant shall notify the Architectural Review Committee once construction is complete; the process is not complete until the county inspection as applicable is performed. The Architectural Review Committee will then inspect the site to certify that the completed work is in accordance with the approved application, and will issue a Certificate of Compliance to the applicant. 4. Notice of Approval/Disapproval. Homeowners who have submitted improvement applications will be given written notice of the decision of the Architectural Review Committee. 5. Penalty for Non-Compliance. Homeowners who make improvements which are disapproved, or who make improvements without the prior approval of the Architectural Review Committee, shall be subject to the Association's enforcement procedures, which include hearings and the subsequent imposition of Enforcement Assessments. The standard penalty for constructing an improvement without prior approval of the Architectural Review Committee is $ The typical monetary charge for constructing an improvement which violates the Association s Design Guidelines, is $10.00 per day until the violation is abated. Additionally, if assessments are not paid in full, interest may accrue at a rate of 18% per annum. Failure to pay assessments will result in the creation of a lien on the property. 6. Reconsideration Procedure. Homeowners who have submitted design review applications may request that the Architectural Review Committee reconsider a denial or a stipulation of approval if the applicant believes that the Architectural 5

6 Review Committee did not receive or may not have been aware of certain circumstances that may have resulted in a different decision. A homeowner may request the Architectural Review Committee reconsider their application by submitting a new application, with the original application attached, to the Committee within ten (10) days after the date of an action by the Committee. This new request should include any new or additional information which might clarify the requested change or demonstrate its perceived acceptability. The Architectural Review Committee is not obligated to hear a "reconsideration request" if they judge that, after reviewing the newly submitted information, their previous decision would not change. The Architectural Review Committee must respond, in writing, to a request for reconsideration within thirty (30) days from the date of receipt of such request by the Committee. However, a failure to respond within thirty (30) days shall not be deemed an approval of the previously denied application. VI. Property Maintenance Standards 1. All turf areas on a lot must be kept neatly mowed during the growing season. Grass should not be permitted to exceed five (5) inches in height. 2. Turf areas and other vegetation should be watered during dry periods. Any dead plants, shrubs or trees should be immediately removed. 3. Turf areas should be kept as weed free as possible. 4. All hedges, trees, and shrubs must be neatly trimmed and maintained; and their size maintained in proportion to the lot and home through pruning. 5. No trash or debris may accumulate or be stored in a visible location on a lot. Construction materials required for the improvement of a home or lot should be neatly stored in as unobtrusive a location on the lot as possible when not in use. 6. The exterior of a building 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. VII. Specific Design Guidelines 1. Decks/Gazebos. The Architectural Review Committee must approve ALL decks and/or gazebos. The following factors will be considered: a. Location. Decks and gazebos should generally be located in rear yards. Front and side yard locations will be evaluated on their individual merit. b. Scale and Style. The scale of all decks and gazebos shall be compatible with the scale of the house as sited on the lot. Decks, particularly elevated decks, should be of a scale and style which are compatible with the home, adjacent homes and the environmental surroundings. 6

7 c. Materials. Decks must be constructed of smooth, exterior grade pressure-treated lumber or composite materials designed specifically for exterior decking, such as Trex or WeatherBest. d. Color. The finish to all wood surfaces except the deck boards on the horizontal floor of the deck and stairs shall be: i. Opaque (solid) stain in white or house trim color, OR ii. Natural Finish (untreated), OR iii. Sealed (clear/transparent waterproofing with no color), OR iv. Transparent stain compatible with the exterior color scheme of the house. v. Only one of these criteria to be allowed to each lot. vi. Exceptions to these color schemes will be evaluated on a case-bycase basis. 2. Dog Houses and Dog Runs. Dog houses will be approved if compatible with the applicant's house in terms of color and material. Dog houses may not exceed sixteen (16) square feet of floor space and may not exceed four (4) feet in height at the highest point. They should be located where visually unobtrusive to neighbors and the use of appropriate screening is encouraged, and may be required in some cases to minimize any negative visual impacts. Dog runs may be permitted on a case-by-case basis. 3. Driveways. Extensions, modifications and additions to driveways will be considered only if there is no adverse aesthetic or drainage impact on adjoining lots or common areas. Additions or modifications should be of the same materials as the existing driveway, but other materials will be considered if aesthetically compatible with the house and lot. 4. Exterior Air Conditioners. Individual air conditioning units extending from windows are prohibited. Exterior air conditioning units or heat pumps may be relocated or added if there is no adverse visual impact to adjoining properties. The Architectural Review Committee must approve such relocation or addition. 5. Exterior Decorative Objects. Approval will be required for all exterior decorative objects placed in front or side yards with the exception of small decorative objects (discussed subsequently), whether natural or man-made and which were not part of the original construction design, either as a standard or optional feature. Examples requiring approval include but are not limited to: bird houses, bird baths, driftwood, weather vanes, sculptures, fountains, freestanding poles of all types, house address numerals, and any items attached to approved structures. Decorative objects that require approval will be evaluated in terms of their general appropriateness, size, location, compatibility with architectural and environmental design qualities, and visual impact on the community and surrounding area. Sculptures, garden statues, bird baths, bird houses, and similar items located 7

8 in rear yard locations do not require approval. However, they should not be visible from the front yard or street. 6. Exterior Lighting. Lighting which is part of the original structure may not be altered without prior approval of the Architectural Review Committee, except for the addition of a small motion sensitive sensor to the existing light fixtures. Proposed replacement or additional fixtures must be compatible in style and scale with the applicant's house. No exterior lighting shall be directed outside of the applicant's property, such as spotlights or floodlights. Proposed additional lighting shall not be approved if it will result in an adverse visual impact to adjoining neighbors due to location, wattage or other features. Floodlights (maximum 4 bulbs per house) may only be attached to the rear of the house and are to be positioned so as to not cause a glare to neighbors or vehicular traffic. Exterior lighting to the side and front elevations of a house may include decorative light fixtures such as carriage lights or simple pole light fixture. Ground level decorative floodlights (i.e., former model) are not allowed. 7. Exterior Painting. An application is not required in order to repaint or restain an object to match the original color. However, all exterior color changes must be approved. This requirement applies to siding, doors, shutters, trim, roofing and other appurtenant structures. 8. Fences. Fences can be used for the following purposes: to visually define property lines; to provide privacy; to provide security, and as an architectural feature intended to enhance the physical appearance of the house or property. The Architectural Review Committee must approve all fence designs. General guidelines for the construction and approval of fences are provided below. a. 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. b. Lot Line Fences. Lot line fences are permitted as a means of delineating lot lines and establishing a "private space". Lot line fences may not be used to enclose the front of a lot. They may be approved for the partial enclosure of side yards in situations where topography, house location or the location of exit doors require fencing to be installed forward of the rear plane of the house and only if such improvement will not have an adverse visual or functional impact on adjoining lot owners. In such cases, a side yard fence must be set back from the front plane of the house a distance equal to one-third the overall depth of the house. The 8

9 gate must be constructed using the same materials as the fence with pressure treated posts. The gate and fencing should have a natural finish. c. Privacy Fencing. The Architectural Review Committee may consider the select use of privacy fencing when the purpose is to provide screening for a deck, patio or in-ground swimming pool. The use of lattice or a comparable open style of privacy screening inside the rear yard lot line is encouraged. 9. Firewood. Firewood stored on a lot shall be kept neatly stacked and shall be located to the rear 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 should be stacked in piles which do not exceed eight feet in length and four feet in height for both aesthetic and safety considerations. Other than a limited quantity of firewood intended for immediate use, firewood shall not be stacked on patios or decks. Firewood can t be stored off your property - i.e. in common areas. Storage of firewood in common areas will result in a violation. 10. Flagpoles. Permanent, freestanding flagpoles must be approved. Temporary flagpole staffs that do not exceed six feet in length and are attached at an incline to the wall or pillar of the dwelling unit do not require approval by the Architectural Review Committee. Seasonal, holiday, and decorative flags and the United States of America and Maryland State flags are permitted to be displayed. 11. Greenhouses. A greenhouse will be treated as a major alteration to a dwelling unit and subject to the same level of review. A greenhouse will be considered, although greenhouses that are attached to the home are encouraged. Freestanding greenhouses must meet the following criteria to be approved: a. Greenhouses shall be restricted to rear yard locations and should not be visible from the front of the lot. The scale and design must be architecturally compatible with the home and surrounding homes. b. Greenhouses should not adversely impact adjoining properties. The installation of landscape materials to provide a visual screen is encouraged and may be required as a condition of approval. c. Greenhouses will only be permitted in backyards where the rear is fenced. The greenhouse shall not exceed eighty (80) square feet of floor space and eight (8) feet in height at the highest point. 12. Grills (Permanent). Permanent grills must be placed in the rear yard of the house and as far as practical from the adjacent property lines. 9

10 13. Hot Tubs/Spas. Exterior hot tubs or spas must be located in the rear yard adjacent to the dwelling unit. The incorporation of hot tubs as an architectural feature of decks and/or patios is encouraged. The exterior finish of an elevated hot tub should blend with the exterior finish of the home, deck or patio to which attached. 14. Landscaping. All major landscape installations must be approved in advance. In general, an improvements application is not required for minor landscape improvements, mulch bed edging or landscape timbers, with the following exceptions: a. Approval is required for plantings intended to form a hedge or natural screen and which will attain more than two feet in height. b. A proposed improvement which is of such a scale or type as to be inconsistent with the existing design features of the home, adjacent units and the surrounding area will require approval. c. Edging materials should be complementary to the specific home and the community in general. Landscape edging products are confined to landscape timbers, brick, decorative aggregate block, and commercially obtainable edging in rubber, plastic, wood, or painted metal. Colors of edging material are confined to black, medium or dark brown, dark green, or rust red. An application is required for any type of edging products not listed here. Ongoing work as needed by the respective homeowners to maintain these structures in good condition is required. 15. Patios. All patios require approval. Patios should generally be located in rear yards. Side yard applications will be evaluated on their individual merit subject to the following criteria: Patios may not "wrap around" either end of a single-family home; however, if appropriate, patios may extend a maximum of eight feet into a side yard. Any adverse drainage requirements which might result from the construction of a patio should be considered and remedied. The use of a partially porous patio surface or the installation of mulch beds adjacent to the patio are ways to eliminate drainage concerns. 16. Recreation And Play Equipment. Semi-permanent play equipment, which either constitutes a structure or is appurtenant to an existing structure, requires approval. The following factors will govern the installation of semipermanent play equipment. a. Location. Generally, such equipment should be placed in rear yards. b. Scale and Design. The equipment should be generally compatible with the lot size. The design and any visual screening are additional 10

11 considerations in evaluating whether or not there will be an adverse visual impact. c. Color and Materials. Equipment constructed of wood or composite materials can be left in a natural condition to weather. (NOTE: See paragraph 1.d in this section for guidelines on color.) 17. Screened-In Porches. Screened-in porches should be fitted to the rear of the home and must comply with the following design guidelines: a. Roof shingles to match existing house. b. Triangular end gables that have exposed lumber must be painted to match existing house trim. c. Screen panels to clear span between support posts. d. Screen panels to be inside porch railing. e. Roof fascia along low edge, gutter and rain leaders must match existing house in style and color. f. Screen door to be "clear view" (i.e., single screen panel) or only one horizontal center divider to form two screen panels. 18. Security Bars. In general, the use of security bars or grates on windows and doors will be prohibited. Exceptions may be made where the security apparatus will not be visible from the street and from adjoining properties. Homeowners concerned about the security of their residence are advised to consider alternatives including alarms and sophisticated lock systems. 19. Security Signs. Security signs may be posted on the property subject to the following guidelines: a. Three signs, each not exceeding a total of sixty-four square inches, may be posted on the property. b. Only two signs may be posted forward of the front plane of the home. c. Approved locations include at the front door, in shrubbery within twelve (12) feet of the front door or attached to the mailbox post. d. A third sign may be posted in the rear yard. 20. Sidewalks And Pathways. Sidewalks and pathways should be set back at least three feet from the property line and installed flush to the ground. Only stone, brick, concrete or similar durable construction material should be used. The scale, location and design should be compatible with the lot, home and surroundings. 21. Skylights. Skylights should be located such that they are not visible from the front of the home or the street. Consideration will be given to skylights on the front side of the roof ridgeline only if constructed flush with the roof. 22. Solar Panels. Solar panels and solar collectors are permitted only when located so that they are not visible from the front of the home or from the street. 11

12 23. Storage Sheds. Storage sheds shall be restricted to rear and side yard locations. Storage sheds may be attached to the home or constructed as freestanding buildings. The following additional guidelines are applicable: a. Design. The architectural design of the shed should be compatible with the design of the house. b. Size. Sheds should not exceed 150 square feet of floor space and twelve feet in height at the highest point. Consideration will be given to the size of the lot and house. c. Materials. The finish materials should be compatible with the exterior of the house. d. Colors. The color scheme should be compatible with the house. Last Updated: May 28, 2003 (FINAL version) 12

13 APPENDIX A PEACHTREE EAST HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC IMPROVEMENTS APPLICATION (Please type or print) 1. NAME: 2. ADDRESS /LOT NUMBER: 3. TELEPHONE: (H) ( ) (W) ( ) GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED CHANGE. Please provide a description of the proposed change, including the nature, kind, shape and dimensions, material, floor plans, color scheme, location, exterior plans and details, driveway plans and location, proposed topographical changes, and together with a designation of the party or parties to perform the work in said proposed improvements, alterations or other changes. No work shall begin on such proposed improvements or alterations until the Architectural Review Committee has approved, in writing, the Plans. Owner's Acknowledgement: 1. I understand that nothing herein contained shall be construed to represent that alterations to land or buildings in accordance with plans shall violate any of the provisions of building and zoning codes of Anne Arundel County. Further, nothing herein contained shall be construed as a waiver or modification of any said restrictions. 2. that no work on this request shall commence until written approval of the Architectural Committee has been received by me. 3. that any construction or exterior alterations undertaken by me or in my behalf before approval of this application is not allowed; that, if alterations are made, I may be required to return the property to its former condition at my expense if this application is disapproved wholly or in part; and, that I may be required to pay all legal expenses incurred. 4. that members of the Architectural Review Committee are permitted to make a routine inspection before and during construction. 5. that a copy of this application will be returned to me after review by the Architectural Review Committee. 13

14 6. that there are architectural requirements covered by the covenants and a review board process as established by the Board of Directors. 7. that the alteration authority granted by this application will be revoked automatically if the alterations requested have not commenced within180 days of the approved date of this application and/or completed by any date specified by the Architectural Review Committee. 8. that all proposed improvements must meet Anne Arundel codes. My signature indicates that these standards are met to the best of my knowledge. I understand that application for all required building permit(s) are my responsibility. 9. that any variation from the original applications must be resubmitted for approval. Applicant Signature/Date: Attachments: (1) Sketch, photo, catalog illustration, etc. (2) Copy of survey marked with change being requested. ************************************************************************ FOR COMMITTEE USE ONLY: Date Rec'v: Approved: Disapproved Date Date Comments: 14