Calvert's Glen HOA ACC Amendment Proposals
This documents the proposed amendments to the Calvert’s Glen HOA Architectural Control Committee (ACC) guidelines proposed by me in 2021/2022.
I am writing them here in order to facilitate distribution and comment.
Note: This text is updated based on feedback from the CGHOA board meeting on August 17th, 2022.
#1: Solar Panels
Proposed Sept 7, 2021.
Virginia law changed effective October 1, 2021 on association restrictions for solar panels {0}.
{0} https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title55.1/chapter18/section55.1-1820.1/
I am proposing the following amendment to the ACC guidelines, page 16:
CURRENT TEXT
SOLAR ENERGY DEVICES
Solar Panels are allowed but the location must be reviewed and approved by the ACC. Location and placement will be allowed as required for the homeowner to install a system size that is up to and within the limitations of the current net metering code.
PROPOSED TEXT
SOLAR ENERGY DEVICES
Solar Panels are allowed in accordance with Virginia regulations. An ACC Exterior Change Request Form is still required, to ensure the HOA is informed about the change.
#2: Sheds
Proposed Sept 7, 2021.
I am proposing the following amendment to the ACC guidelines, page 12. This amendment permits sheds, and is inspired by the Countryside Proprietary {1} and Cascades HOA {2} rules on sheds.
- {1} https://secureservercdn.net/50.62.89.79/4nt.a1b.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/2021-Community-Guidelines-Handbook.pdf section 49 page 45.
- {2} https://www.cascadesva.com/ResourceCenter/Download/41469/cascades%20homeowner%20manual%20july%201%202021?doc_id=2530870&print=1&view=1 section 45 page 31.
CURRENT TEXT
SHEDS A shed is defined as a roofed, four or more sided structure with or without a door which is primarily enclosed. No sheds of any kind may be constructed or placed unattached from the house. No prefabricated structures will be approved.
PROPOSED TEXT
SHEDS
A shed is defined as a roofed, four or more sided structure with or without a door which is primarily enclosed. Sheds can be a very useful addition to a property but can often become a maintenance and upkeep concern, so applications will face strict scrutiny by the ACC. One shed is allowed but must be positioned in the rear of the home and not be visible from the street. A shed may not exceed 8 feet in height. Sheds should be designed to complement the materials and aesthetic of the house. All sheds will be subject to ACC review annually and must be maintained to the same standards as the primary residence, especially if the shed is not behind privacy fencing. Sheds that are not properly maintained to the standards of the HOA may be required to be removed from the property.
#3: Fence Materials
Proposed Sept 8, 2021.
I am proposing the following amendment to the ACC guidelines, page 15. This amendment permits synthetic materials for fences.
CURRENT TEXT
Materials and Color
Fencing should be of natural wood materials. In all cases, fencing should be allowed to weather naturally.
PROPOSED TEXT
Materials and Color
Fencing should be of natural wood materials or synthetic materials that closely mimic the appearance of natural wood materials. Natural wood fencing should be allowed to weather naturally. If artificial materials are used, they should be of uniform color, subject to ACC review and approval.
#4: Mailbox Materials
Proposed Sept 2, 2022.
I am proposing the following amendment to the ACC guidelines, page 17, offered after discussion with the CGHOA board. This amendment specifies the materials that are permissible for mailbox posts and explicitly expands the list to include metal and synthetic materials. It also separates the requirements for mailbox posts and for mailboxes, for clarity.
CURRENT TEXT
MAILBOXES Usual and customary - anything other than black on natural finish or painted dark brown 4" x 4" type post must be submitted for approval. Other types such as mailboxes with nature scenes may be allowed, however in no case shall any mailbox be allowed to become a dominate part of the landscape. No oversized mailboxes will be allowed.
PROPOSED TEXT
MAILBOXES POSTS Mailbox posts should be 4" x 4" and may be made of wood, metal, or synthetic materials. Mailbox posts should either be black or dark brown in color. If wood is not used, mailbox posts should either mimic the appearance of natural wood materials or be smooth.
MAILBOXES Usual and customary. Other types such as mailboxes with nature scenes may be allowed, however in no case shall any mailbox be allowed to become a dominate part of the landscape. No oversized mailboxes will be allowed.