Park Brooke Architectural Review Committee Standards and Guidelines 2006 Park Brooke Architectural Review Committee Standards and Guidelines Table of Contents I. Introduction Purpose of Standards and Guidelines A. Modification Request Form/Process B. Non-compliance/Violation fines C. Appeals Process D. Disclaimers Pages 4-9 Page 4 Page 4-7 Page 7 Page 8 Page 8 II. Exterior House Standards A. Construction B. Paint/Siding/Brick/Roof C. Air Conditioning Units D. Doors/Windows/Porticos/Shutters/Gutters E. Rain gutters and downspouts F. Driveways/Walkways/Patios G. Decks H. Garage/Parking I. Mailboxes/Street Numbers J. Front Porches/Stoops Pages 9-12 Page 9 Page 10 Page 10 Page 10 Page 10 Page 10 Page 11 Page 11 Page 12 Page 12 K. Antennas/Satellite Dishes Page 12 III. Landscaping Standards A. Exterior Landscaping and Maintenance B. Landscape Beds/Bushes C. Tree Removal D. Trash Cans/Garden Hoses E. Arbors F. Drainage G. Irrigation H. Garden Plots (for raising fruits and vegetables) I. Fencing/Dog Runs J. Firewood K. Lawn and Yard Furniture/Structures L. Flags M. Exterior Lighting N. Water Features O. Lawn Dividers/Borders P. Retaining Walls Pages 13-17 Page 13 Page 13 Page 14 Page 14 Page 14 Page 14 Page 15 Page 15 Page 15 Page 15 Page 16 Page 16 Page 16 Page 16 Page 16 Page 17 IV. Recreational Equipment Standards Page 17 V. Pools and Spa equipment A. Wading Pools B. Above-Ground Pools C. In-Ground Pools D. Outdoor Spas and Hot Tubs Page 17-18 Page 17 Page 18 Page 18 Page 18 VI. Miscellaneous A. Doghouses B. Holiday Decorations C. Plant selection/Water Management D. Pet Management E. Signs Modification Request Form Pages 18-19 Page 18 Page 18 Page 18 Page 19 Page 19 Page 20 Park Brooke Architectural Review Committee Standards and Guidelines I. Introduction Purpose of the Architectural Standards Guidelines One of the primary purposes of the Declaration of Protective Covenants and Easements for Park Brooke at Park Bridge is to provide the homeowners in Park Brooke with a framework of rules and regulations that assure each homeowner the protection of their investment. It also ensures that the community will be maintained in a manner which is conducive to the community standards of this area. All lot owners within the community, by virtue of their acceptance of a deed therefore, are bound by the covenants and conditions contained within the Declaration, as well as all rules, regulations and guidelines established pursuant thereto. Article VI, Section 6.03 of the Declaration provides that written design guidelines and procedures may be established to govern exterior construction, alterations, additions and erections in the Community. Furthermore, Article I, Section 1.07 of the Declaration provides that the Board of Directors may determine the Community-Wide Standard, or the standard of conduct, maintenance and other activities generally prevailing in the Community. There are five objectives in achieving this architectural standard. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. To establish an overall identity and character. To provide continuity. To create an attractive and aesthetically pleasing environment. To protect your investment. To enhance the beauty of your home and our neighborhood. Why do we have Architectural Standards and Guidelines? The development of an Architectural Standards Guideline (A.S.G.) pursuant to the declaration provides flexibility to the homeowner. How? The A.S.G. provides the homeowners latitude to make alterations within a specific framework without the necessary step of first obtaining approval from the A.R.C. as set forth in the covenants. The Declaration requires prior approval of the ACC for all exterior modifications. However, the ASG will set forth those alterations that will be automatically approved so long as certain conditions are met. In addition the A.S.G. provides a framework for maintenance of each homeowner’s lot. Because of the uniqueness of each lot within the Park Brooke Community, including variations in size, topography and location, certain uses, improvements or modifications suitable for one lot may be inappropriate for another lot. Therefore, despite the guidelines offered by these standards, the A.R.C. is authorized to take these differences into consideration when reviewing requests to reflect those differences in their decisions. As an example, the A.R.C. may allow an improvement, modification, or change to a structure which cannot be seen from any street within the community, but prohibit the 5 same improvement if it has more visual impact on another lot. While this may be seen as somewhat subjective, the A.R.C. will do everything to ensure equality and cohesiveness within the community. The A.R.C. is comprised of homeowners within Park Brooke. The covenants have granted the A.R.C. discretionary powers regarding the aesthetic impact of design, construction and development including architectural style, colors, textures, materials, landscaping and overall impact on the surrounding properties. The intent is to promote and assure that all improvements are aesthetically compatible and reflect the image of a quality swim and tennis community. The A.R.C. intends to be fair, impartial and understanding of individual goals. The A.R.C. will not get involved in disputes between neighbors and will make decisions based upon aesthetics, design, style, and impact to the community at large. The covenants state that no exterior construction, addition, erection or alteration shall be made unless and until plans and specifications showing at least the nature, kind, shape, height, materials and location shall have been submitted in writing to and approved by an Architectural Review Committee (A.R.C.). Please refer to Covenants, Article VI, Use Restrictions and Rules, 6.03. A. Modification Request Form/Process In those instances where pre-approval of an exterior or lot change is necessary, a Modification Request Form (MRF) must be completed as set forth below. See page 20 for a form or go to the Park Brooke web site at http://parkbrooke.com. You can access the online form from the left hand panel without logging on or go to HOA Info/ Documents/Gen info and then Architectural Review. When you complete the form online, a member of the ARC will receive an email as well as the Park Brooke Board of Directors and the management company representative. You will be contacted as soon as possible, usually within a couple of days. General Information A.R.C. members are voluntary residents of Park Brooke appointed by the Board of Directors. They are responsible for reviewing Modification Requests and providing feedback to the management company and the Board as needed. A MRF is an application, which owners within Park Brooke must complete and submit for approval to the A.R.C. before making exterior changes to the appearance of a lot. Homeowners are requested to provide as much detail as possible when submitting a MRF to the A.R. C. This will eliminate confusion and reduce the time required to respond to the homeowner. Plans should be specific in nature and include such items as types of materials to be used, planned start/completion dates, shape, height, and actual photographs or drawings of items/structures to be added when applicable. Plans should also be limited in size to work that can be completed in a 6 month period. Each MRF will be responded to in writing within 60-days from the day all final documentation has been received. 6 Step 1 – Submitting Modification Request Form Homeowners are requested to submit photocopies of all plans and documentation. All submitted plans become the property of the A.R.C. and will not be returned, but filed for future reference and verification. Any exterior paint color changes should be described in the request and paint chips should be provided during an onsite review. All documentation including architectural drawings, photographs, property survey showing improvements, and description of materials should be included and mailed to our property manager: Access Management Group 1100 North Meadow Parkway Suite 114 Roswell, GA 30076 You may choose to send your MRF by fax to (770) 777-6916 Step 2 – On Site Review The purpose of the on-site review is for the A.R.C. to assess the impact your request may have to neighbors, and the general quality of the community. The on-site visit is usually brief (5-10 Minutes) with limited homeowner involvement required. However, we recommend that the homeowner be available to answer questions for more complex plans submitted and to help expedite the approval process. If changing paint colors, please have paint chips available during the on-site review. Step 3 – Decision Process Upon completion of the on-site review the A.R.C. will respond to the MRF with one of three decisions: Approved as presented, Approved with stipulation, or Denied as presented. Our property manager will contact the homeowner in writing with an explanation relative to the decision. Once an approved status is received by the homeowner, work may begin. Request approved as presented – The plan was accepted as documented and the homeowner can begin the requested changes immediately. Request approved with stipulation - The plan was accepted with specific conditions provided. The homeowner should review the condition and, if in agreement, can begin the requested changes immediately. If the homeowner is not in agreement with the conditions required, the homeowner may re-submit revised plans. Request denied as presented – If the plan was denied, an explanation will be provided. In many cases, the A.R.C. will recommend one or more alternative solutions. If the homeowner is receptive to one of these solutions, they simply 7 need to submit a letter to the A.R.C. detailing their agreement with the proposed solution. The A.R.C. must approve the homeowner’s plan before the homeowner can proceed with their request. Appeal - The homeowner may appeal the decision of the A.R.C. to the Board of Directors (see C. Appeals Process below). Approved requests must be completed in accordance with the plans as approved by the A.R.C. All changes or modifications to approved plans must be reviewed and approved by the A.R.C. B. Non Compliance/Violation Fines If work begins without A.R.C. approval, or if the Declaration of Protective Covenants and Easements for Park Brooke at Park Bridge are not followed, a fine may be imposed. Additionally, a fine may be imposed if any alteration, construction or modification is not consistent with the plans and specifications approved by the ARC, these guidelines, or otherwise violates the governing documents for the Association. These fines of $25 a day will be assessed in accordance with Article XIII of the Declarations. The fine process is as follows: 1st notice – A formal letter will be sent to the homeowner asking them to comply with the covenants within 10 days and/or reason why they cannot. 2nd notice – A formal letter will be sent to the homeowner asking them to comply with the covenants within 10 days and/or reason why they cannot. In addition, this letter will serve as a second notice just in case the first was not received. They would be asked to contact a Park Brooke Board member to provide additional information. 3rd notice – A certified letter will be sent to the homeowner with a warning advising them that a financial penalty will be imposed if compliance is not met within 10 days or a reasonable explanation is not provided to the Park Brooke Board. 4th notice – A certified letter will be sent to the homeowner advising them that a $25.00 per day penalty will be assessed effective 10 days after the certified letter notice, to their homeowner’s ledger for the next billing period. Penalties are imposed in accordance with article 13.01 of the Declarations of Park Brooke. In addition, if the amount is significant, a lien will be filed on their property. The Board has the right to Self Help in any situation whereby the homeowner fails to comply with the Protective Covenants and Easements for Park Brooke at Park Bridge. In effect, this means that the board has the right to hire a contractor to perform exterior work 8 necessary to bring the subject property into compliance with the Protective Covenants and Easements for Park Brooke at Park Bridge. C. Appeals Process Each homeowner has the right to appeal a MRF or violations that result from an inability to resolve the issue with the A.R.C. The procedure for appeal is as follows: Written notice shall be served upon the violator by first-class or certified mail sent to the address of the member shown on the Association’s records, specifying: 1. the nature of the violation, the fine or suspension to be imposed and the date, not less than 15 days from the date of the notice, that the fine or suspension will take effect; 2. that the violator may, within ten days from the date of the notice, request a hearing regarding the fine or suspension imposed or MRF denied; 3. the name, address and telephone numbers of a person to contact to challenge the denied request, fine, or suspension; 4. that any statements, evidence, and witnesses may be produced by the requestor or violator at the hearing; and 5. that all rights to have the fine or suspension reconsidered are waived if a hearing is not requested within ten days of the date of the notice. If a hearing is requested, it shall be held before the Board in executive session, and the requestor or violator shall be given a reasonable opportunity to be heard. The minutes of the meeting shall contain a written statement of the results of the hearing. No fine or suspension shall be imposed prior to the date that is five days after the date of the hearing. D. Disclaimers Approval of any structure by the A.R.C. is in no way a certification that the structure has been built in accordance with any governmental rules or that the structure complies with sound building practices. Homeowners are required by law to obtain a building permit for all new construction. For information on obtaining a permit, contact the City of Alpharetta Building Inspections department at 678-297-6080. Permits are required for any home improvement or change greater than $100.00 to include, but not limited to additions, roofing, swimming pools, concrete slabs, electrical, gas, plumbing, sprinkler systems, etc. In addition, a land disturbance permit will be required for any major drainage or water flow changes on your property. Contact the same number listed above. Failure to do so could lead to a financial penalty imposed by the city of Alpharetta. The Guidelines set forth herein have not been reviewed for engineering or structural design or quality of materials. In fact, it is very likely that certain standards have been adopted solely on the basis of aesthetic consideration. Therefore, no one should use or rely upon these Architectural Standards as standards for structural integrity or soundness 9 of design for any construction or modification of a structure or for ensuring compliance of any activity or construction with building codes, zoning regulations and other governmental requirements. These things must be determined by, and are the sole responsibility of, each homeowner within the community. Please remember that, like the guidelines, plans and specifications are not reviewed for engineering or structural design or quality of materials. By approving such plans and specifications, neither the A.R.C., the members thereof, nor the Association assumes liability or responsibility therefore, or for any defect in any structure constructed from such plans and specifications. Neither the Developer, the Association, the A.R.C., the Board, nor the officers, members, committee members, employees and agents of any of them shall be liable in damages to anyone submitting plans and specifications to any of them for approval, or to any owner of property affected by the declaration by reason of mistake in judgment, negligence, or nonfeasance arising out of or in connection with the approval or disapproval or failure to approve or disapprove any such plans or specifications. It is the sole responsibility of the homeowner to ensure that structures are safe. Approval of any type of structure, including children’s play-sets, by the A.R.C. is in no way a guarantee of the safety of individuals on or around the equipment. In accordance with the covenants, every person submitting plans or specifications and every homeowner agrees that they will not bring any action or suit against the Association, the A.R.C. , the Board, or the officers, directors, committee members, employees and agents of any of them for damages or otherwise. II. Exterior House Standards A. Construction All exterior construction requires the homeowner to complete a Modification Request Form and have an on-site visit from a member of the A.R.C. The purpose of the visit is to ensure that the construction adheres to the A.R.C. guidelines and is in harmony with the external design and general quality of the community prior to any work beginning. The original architectural character or theme of any home must be consistent for all components of the home. Once the character of the home is established, no change may alter the character, whether it is traditional or contemporary etc. In the event of a catastrophe (fire, tornado etc), the home must be reconstructed in the original design so as to meet the architectural standards of the community. Any change from the original design must have A.R.C. approval. 10 B. Paint/Siding/Brick/Roof C. Any change to the exterior color of the house including, but not limited to doors, shutters, gutters, trim, brick and siding shall be approved by the A.R.C. Repainting requires prior written approval only if the color is changed. A paint color change requires the following information: 1. Paint sample chip, with manufacturer’s name and color number. 2. Area of the home to be repainted Please note: Adjacent homes cannot be painted the same color. New roofs shall follow the same style and color standard originally installed by the builder. The roof shall include at least a 20-year shingle warranty and shall have approval of the A.R.C. Any roof profile changes (removing dormer windows etc.) shall have approval of the A.R.C. The homeowner is responsible for performing customary maintenance on the home and other hardscapes Air Conditioning Units D. No window air conditioning units are allowed whatsoever. Your air conditioning system will be more efficient if you screen it from the sun, particularly in the afternoon. Small shade trees can provide some relief if placed strategically to block direct solar rays from the outside unit. Doors/Windows/Porticos/Shutters/Gutters E. Any alterations to the exterior of the house including but not limited to, doors, shutters, gutters, trim and exterior siding, shall be approved by the A.R.C. Lead and stained glass shall be submitted to the A.R.C. for pre-approval on a MRF including a photo or diagram of the new door/window. The addition of any portico requires approval from the A.R.C. The replacement of garage doors shall require both doors on the same side of the house to be of the same style and color. Rain Gutters and downspouts F. All gutters and downspouts must match the trim on the house. Driveways/Walkways/Patios A Modification Request Form shall be submitted for patio covers (roofs, awnings etc.), trellises and arbors attached or unattached to the house, permanent seating, railing, and other items. A Modification Request Form for changes in or additions to existing or new driveways, walkways or patios is required. 11 G. Patterned concrete, brick, or decorative driveways and walkways require ARC approval. The painting of front sidewalks and driveways, either side of front entry, is prohibited. Decks A Modification Request Form shall be submitted for all decks, including extensions and alterations. Exact replacement decks do not require A.R.C. approval. Please be sure that it is constructed with current building standards and secured to the house appropriately. The Modification Request Form shall include a site plan denoting location, dimensions, materials and color. The following areas will be reviewed: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. H. Location, size, conformity with the design of the house, relationship to neighboring dwellings, and proposed use. Materials to be used are subject to approval by the A.R.C. The deck may not extend past the sidelines of the home. The color must be a natural wood stain, neutral, or painted to match the house. Vertical supports for wood decks must be wood posts or painted metal poles (black) or stacked brick or stone columns. Owners are advised that a building permit and inspection is required for deck construction. Garages/parking 1. Garage doors should be kept closed at all times except for ingress and egress, as stated in Section VI of the Declarations. Homeowners are encouraged to keep vehicles in their garage. 2. No vehicle may be parked on any yard. 3. Permanent or repetitive parking of vehicles on the street is prohibited 4. Temporary parking (48 hours or less) is allowed if not a nuisance to neighbors and an impediment to traffic flow. Homeowners are responsible for guest parking and shall ensure that guest’s park in a safe manner and do not impede access to other driveways and traffic. Guests are encouraged to park in the homeowners driveway. Extra temporary parking is available at the pool and tennis courts parking areas. 5. Commercial vehicles regularly driven by a resident must be parked in the garage when not in use. 6. All passenger vehicles parked in open view and not in a garage must be operable, may not be unsightly, and must be driven on a regular basis. 12 I. Mailboxes/Street Numbers J. Mailboxes serving lots shall be approved by the A.R.C. Identical replacement mailboxes may be installed without approval; but no modification to or change in mailboxes may be made without the approval in writing of the A.R.C. House numbers must be posted on the mailbox and/or on the curbing. Front Porches/Stoops Front porch, outdoor furniture, flowerpots and statuary shall be in conformity and harmony of external design with existing standards of the neighborhood. K. Antennas/Satellite dishes Except as provided below, no satellite dish, antenna or other device for the transmission or reception of television signals, radio signals or any form of electromagnetic wave or radiation shall be erected, used or maintained outdoors on any portion of the Community, whether attached to a single-family residence or structure or otherwise. The following shall apply to all Lots: No transmission antenna, of any kind, may be erected anywhere on the Community without written approval of the Board of Directors or its designee. No direct broadcast satellite (DBS) antenna or multi-channel multi-point distribution service (MMDS) antenna larger than one meter in diameter shall be placed, allowed, or maintained upon any portion of the Community, including a Lot. DBS and MMDS satellite dishes or antennas one meter or less in diameter and television broadcast service antennas (“permitted dish and antenna”) may only be installed in accordance with Federal Communication Commission (FCC) rules as may be amended from time to time. An Owner may place a permitted dish or antenna only on his/her Lot. The Owner must insure placement of the permitted dish or antenna in a location on the Lot that is the least conspicuous from the street that also provides a reasonable signal. The preferred location is on the rear of the house located on a Lot. Any installation for a satellite dish in a location other than the back of the house will require an MRF with an explanation as to why dish cannot be placed on the rear of the house or in another location with no visual impact from the street. In the event of a transfer of the Lot which includes the satellite dish or antenna, the Grantee shall assume all responsibility for the satellite dish or antenna and shall comply with this Declaration, the By-Laws and the rules and regulations regarding satellite dishes and antennas, including, but not limited to, those requirements relating to maintenance and removal of their satellite dish or antenna. 13 III. Landscaping Standards A. Exterior Landscaping and Maintenance 1. Each homeowner shall keep their lot and all improvements thereon in good order and repair, including, but not limited to, seeding, watering, fertilizing, mowing grass regularly, edging, controlling weeds, mulching of Landscape Beds, and pruning of trees and shrubbery. 2. Each owner is responsible for removal of debris, clippings, etc from the property line to the center of the adjacent streets. All planting areas shall be properly maintained at all times, and after the first frost, all affected material shall be removed. The bare earth shall be covered with appropriate landscape mulch to prevent erosion and protect plants, shrubs and trees. 3. The painting and /or other appropriate external care of all buildings, fences, and improvements shall be done in a manner with such frequency as is consistent with good property management and the precedent set in the surrounding community. 4. Yard equipment shall be stored in the garage or basement. 5. Outside storage structures require approval from the ARC. 6. No fence, wall, hedge, or shrub planting shall be placed or permitted to remain where it could create a line of sight problem for traffic on the road, public walkways, or at intersections. 7. Front walkways, curbing, and driveways shall be edged so as not to have an unsightly or unkempt look. Grass should not be allowed to grow over the concrete more then three inches over a 30 day period. 8. Absolutely no artificial vegetation shall be permitted on the exterior of any property. 9. Owners are responsible for keeping grasses, shrubs, and low hanging tree limbs from blocking or impeding sidewalk access. B. Landscape Beds/Bushes Landscape Beds shall be maintained regularly, including edging, weeding, and adding seasonal indigenous bedding material: natural pine straw, wood mulch, pine nuggets, or other landscape material, collectively known as mulch or mulching. Landscape Beds allow the homeowner creativity to design and plant annuals, perennials, shrubs, bushes, and trees. Empty Landscape Beds with no plants, shrubs, bushes, and trees are discouraged and should focus on the harmony of existing design with existing landscape standards of the neighborhood. Landscaping shall relate to the existing terrain and natural features of the lot and shall be in conformity and harmony of external landscape designs with existing standards of the neighborhood. Landscaping walls or retaining walls require A.R.C. approval and may be made of either pressure treated timbers, stacked stone, cross ties or Windsor stones or brick that match the color scheme of the home. 14 C. Tree Removal No trees that are more than six inches in diameter at a point 12 inches above the ground shall be removed without the prior written consent of the A.R.C. However, no ornamental or flowering trees including, without limitation, dogwood trees, cottonwood trees, cherry trees or apple trees, regardless of diameter, shall be removed without the prior written consent of the A.R.C. Damaged trees from storms or disease must be removed from the property as soon as possible, especially when creating a safety hazard. A.R. C. approval is not required in an emergency situation. The ARC can require an opinion of an arborist to show a tree is damaged or diseased and creating a safety hazard. D. Trash Cans/Garden Hoses/Rubbish/Yard Waste 1. Trashcans are not to be allowed in front of the house except on days when trash pickup occurs. They may be placed in the front the night before pickup occurs. Otherwise, trashcans may be stored on the side or back of a house only if they are totally hidden from view from the street and neighbors by shrubs or a fence. The preferred storage location for trashcans is in the garage. 2. Each homeowner shall make an attempt to conceal hoses from view as much as practicable. 3. Yard waste should be placed at the curb on the day of pickup or the night before. 4. Yard waste should not be allowed to accumulate at the front curb for extended periods of time. 5. Yard waste should be placed in brown paper waste bags or as instructed by the City of Alpharetta. E. Arbors All Arbors shall be located in the back yard or side yard. Preferred materials are wrought iron or pressure treated wood. A Modification Request Form is required for all arbors. F. Drainage Any change to the natural water flow that is of a considerable nature requires a land disturbance permit from the city of Alpharetta. An example would be installing a drainage system in your yard. Drainage pipe cannot be routed into the gutter or under a city sidewalk. Existing site drainage patterns must be maintained. Surface runoff water shall not be altered from its natural or designed course, nor shall it be redirected in a manner that results in erosion to the lot or any adjoining lot. 15 G. Irrigation Irrigation heads shall be adjusted so as to not spray into adjacent yards or onto the public right of way. Water on public rights of way could be hazardous in the winter months. H. Garden plots (for raising fruits and vegetables) Seasonal garden plots are permitted and should be located at the rear of the lot and within the sidelines (rear) of the house. The size of the plot is limited to 100 square feet. I. Fencing/Dog Runs 1. No fence or fencing type barrier of any kind shall be placed, erected, allowed or maintained upon any lot without the prior written consent of the A.R.C. A MRF shall be submitted for all fencing and shall include the following: Type: A picture or drawing of fence type shall be submitted. Structure: The maximum height may not exceed 5 feet. The maximum span between posts shall be 10 feet. The minimum post size shall be 4" x 4". Dimensions of all materials used shall be indicated on the drawing and remain consistent in conformity and harmony with other fences in the community. Site Plan: A site plan denoting the location of the fence shall accompany the Modification Request Form. Fences shall not be closer to any side street than the building line of the lot. Every attempt shall be made to follow the property line. Color: The fence shall be natural in color or painted to complement the house and the natural surroundings. 2. Absolutely no Chain link, or hog wire fences are allowed. No dog runs are permitted. 3. All fences not properly maintained will be subject to removal. 4. Replacement of existing fences will not require A.R.C. approval as long as they are exactly the same type and structure and color fencing. Any changes must be approved by the A.R.C. J. Firewood Firewood piles shall be located or screened so as to be concealed from view of neighboring lots, streets, and property located adjacent to the lot. 16 K. Lawn and Yard Furniture/Structures All lawn furniture, yard furniture and structures including but not limited to bird baths, bird houses, shepherd hooks with or without hanging baskets, trellises, wind-chimes, bird feeders, rock gardens, ponds, waterfalls, statues, figurines or similar types of lawn decorations, shall be in conformity and harmony of external design with existing standards of the neighborhood. L. Flags A Modification Request Form is not required for a single flag pole staff (one) attached to the front of the house or to the side of the house where the garage doors are located. In addition, all flags are subject to the review of the ARC/Board M. Exterior lighting A Modification Request Form is not required if lights meet the following criteria: Lighting does not exceed 18 inches in height The spacing of wall mounted lights shall be a minimum of 3 feet apart Colored lens, lamps or bulbs of any type are not permitted Gas lighting is approved by and permits are obtained from the city of Alpharetta N. Water Features Water falls and ponds are permitted in the rear of the house without A.R.C. approval. The placement of these improvements on corner lots may be installed on the side of the house depending on the view from the street, screening etc. and will require A.R.C. approval. Water features must be kept clean and free of algae and debris at all times of the year Drainage of water features should not impact adjacent properties O. Lawn dividers/borders Lawn dividers between adjoining properties are acceptable. Black vinyl landscape dividers which are flush with the lawn are acceptable. Rock, pavers, or brick units used for borders between properties should generally not exceed four inches in width and the top should be flush with the lawn except when it abuts a sidewalk, in such cases, the top of the border should not be higher than the sidewalk, for safety reasons The A.R.C. does not discourage yard borders between property lines. Please work with your neighbors prior to installation to determine where plantings and borders will be located and agree on who will maintain them. 17 P. Retaining walls All retaining walls must be approved by the A.R.C. IV. Recreational Equipment standards 1. Tree houses are not permitted. 2. A Modification Request Form is not required to be submitted for play equipment if the play equipment is located within the extended side lines of the house, in the rear of the house. 3. If the lot will not accommodate play equipment within the extended sidelines of the house, or if the lot is situated such that placement of play equipment will create visual impact from the street, a Modification Request Form will be required. 4. All play equipment, exclusive of wearing surfaces, (slide poles, climbing rungs, swing sears, etc. ) will generally be required to be painted or stained to blend into the surrounding environment (earth tone colors, such as dark green or brown). Metal play sets are prohibited. All play equipment shall be maintained neatly ) kept stained, etc_. 5. Toys should be picked up and stored out of site while not in use so that they do not become a nuisance or negative visual impact from the street. 6. Permanent baseball backstops, batting cages, or similar large substantive sports equipment is not permitted. 7. Basketball goal installations must have A.R.C. approval. 8. Mobile Basketball Goals may not be stored on the street. 9. A Modification Request Form is not required if all of the following requirements are met: a. Backboard is white, beige, clear, black or light gray. b. Goal is not to be attached to the house or placed in the street. c. Goal shall be kept in good appearance and condition (no rust, broken parts, etc.) d. No more than one basketball goal will be permitted on any lot. e. No basketball goals can be placed on a lot other than between the rear dwelling line and the rear lot line without the prior written consent of the ARC. V. Pools and spa equipment A. Wading pools A modification request form is not required to be submitted for children’s portable wading pools (those that can be emptied at night) that do no exceed 18 inches in depth where surface areas do not exceed 36 square feet. 18 B. Above ground pools Above ground pools are prohibited. C. In-ground pools In ground pools are permitted with A.R.C. approval. A permit will be required from the city of Alpharetta. D. Outdoor Spas and hot tubs 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. All spas and hot tubs require a Modification Request Form. A building permit is required from the city of Alpharetta. Spas shall meet all County and State regulations and codes. A cover shall be in place at all times when not in use. Every attempt shall be made to conceal the spa or hot tub from view of neighboring lots and streets, utilizing appropriate landscaping, lattice work, etc. Plans for screening shall be part of the Modification Request Form. VI. Miscellaneous items A. Dog houses Doghouses are allowed in the rear yard and shall be located close to the house to provide minimum visual impact to adjacent properties and the street. It shall be located so as not to cause a nuisance to neighbors. The doghouse exterior colors shall be a natural wood color, stained in a natural wood color or painted to match the exterior of the house. Landscaping shall be added to block visibility of doghouse where necessary B. Holiday decorations Exterior Christmas Decorations may not be displayed before Thanksgiving Day and shall be removed by the second weekend in January. For other holidays, all decorations, including flags, may be displayed two weeks before the holiday and shall be removed no later than one week after the holiday C. Plant selections/water management Certain trees can contribute to the beauty of your home and at the same time become a nuisance tree for you and your neighbors. Please be considerate in selecting flowering, deciduous trees. Trees such as Bradford pear are beautiful and fast growing, but as they mature become subject to splitting during wind or rain storms and can cause damage or injury. They can also cover your entire front yard hiding the beauty of your home. The underlying Bermuda grass will thin out 19 and die due to the lack of sunlight. Plant them where you have open areas and away from concrete driveways and the foundation of your house. The roots can cause damage to concrete structures. Know what you are planting before you purchase and install a tree or bush and ensure it has plenty of room to grow. Water management must be considered with any landscape project. Please ensure that you follow the Fulton County rules for outside watering. Follow these guidelines for water conservation: o Use soil amendments o Use mulches o Incorporate low water use plants o Use efficient irrigation methods o Plan and design your landscape area to incorporate appropriate plants in wet or dry areas of your yard. o Do not over water D. Pet management No pet is allowed off a homeowner’s property without a leash that has a person attached to it. This is a Fulton county ordinance. Conflicts in regard to loose or stray animals shall be directed to Fulton County Animal Control at 404-794-0358. Prolonged barking by dogs can become a nuisance. This should be handled through Fulton County Animal Control at 404-794-0358. As a courtesy to neighbors, pet owners are responsible for cleaning up their pet’s droppings while walking them in common areas or on other homeowner’s property. Any conflicts are to be resolved by involved homeowners or by calling Fulton County Animal Control at 404-794-0358 E. Signs 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. No sign of any kind shall be erected by an owner without written consent of the A.R.C. except as follows: Legal proceeding signs One for sale or for lease sign consistent with the community wide standard having a maximum area of six square feet Open house signs are allowed during the open house hours and must be removed immediately upon the completion of the open house is: 2-4 pm on a Sunday afternoon. One security sign is allowed in the front yard, placed either by the mailbox or by the front steps. Signs placed in the yard to advertise work being done by a company will be allowed for a period of time that coincides with the work being done and shall be removed upon completion of the work. Yard-sale signs shall be removed at the end of the sale period Political signs during pre-election campaigns and no more than three signs per residence 20 Park Brooke Modification Request Form Homeowner’s Name: _____________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________ Estimated Start Date:________________ Estimated Completion Date: ______________ Home Phone: _______________Daytime Phone: ________________ TYPE OF MODIFICATION BEING REQUESTED Minor Play Equipment Landscaping Change of House Color Tree Removal Statuary Other Moderate Deck/Screened Porch Retaining Wall Steps Gazebo Other – brick patio etc. Swimming Pool Fence Major Room Addition Permission is hereby granted for members of the Park Brooke Architectural Review Committee and Homeowners' Association representatives to enter the property to make reasonable observations and inspections of the requested modification and completed project. The Applicant represents by the act of entering into the review process with the Park Brooke Architectural Review Committee that all representatives of Applicant, including, but not limited to, Applicants architect, engineer, contractors, subcontractors, and their agents and employees shall be made aware by the Applicant of all applicable requirements of the ARC and shall abide by these Procedures, the Guidelines and the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions with respect to approval of development plans and specifications. Homeowner Signature _______________________________ For Architectural Review Committee Only Date request received by Access Group:___________ ( ) In Person ( ) By Mail ( ) Fax ARC Signature: ________________________ Date:____________________ ( ) Approved ( ) Conditional Approval* ( ) Disapproved* *Explanation: __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ 21