Boulder Subdivision Homeowners Association Inc.
Architectural Review Committee (ARC) Guidelines
March 2018
Declaration Article VI, Section 2 permits the Board of Directors, on behalf of the Boulder Subdivision Homeowners Association Inc., to adopt Architectural Guidelines governing exterior improvements and alterations within Boulder HOA. Boulder HOA is located within the borders of the City of Cuyahoga Falls (“City”), Summit County (“County”). As such, all proposed projects, alterations, and improvements submitted to the Board must comply with the Association’s adopted Architectural Guidelines as well as any applicable City and/or County guidelines and building, zoning or fire code requirements. Projects that do not meet these minimum standards will not be approved by the Board. All exterior improvements and alterations must be approved by the Boulder Subdivision Homeowners Association Inc. Board.
Additionally, the proposed improvement or alterations must be compatible with the architectural characteristics of the applicant's residence, adjoining residences. and the neighborhood setting. Compatibility is defined as similarity in architectural style, quality of workmanship, similar use of materials, color and construction details. Finally, there are other specific criteria that the Board considers prior to approving a project, which are outlined in the Architectural Guidelines. The information below is not intended to be all inclusive or exclusive, but rather serve as a general guide to what improvements may be made within the Boulder HOA.
General Guidelines
The following general guidelines apply to all requests for exterior improvements or alteration to any residence or on any Lot within Boulder HOA. Specific sections below may provide additional guidelines.
1.1 Neighbor Impact
Proposed improvement or alteration has the potential to impact adjacent Lot(s), through shadow, access, ventilation, or drainage. Consideration should be given to how these issues may impact neighbor’s privacy and quiet enjoyment of their property.
1.2 Color
Paint and stain colors must be consistent with the original colors of the house. Samples of the proposed color(s) to be used as well as existing colors of surrounding features of the applicant’s residence must be provided with the application. Where the color(s) of the proposed improvement of alteration will match the existing residence trim, or other surrounding improvements, a statement indicating such is sufficient. The final color selection will be approved by the Board.
1.3 Wood
Any wood materials used must be protected either by paint or by a clear or tinted stain and sealer. This applies to all types of wood, in all applications, including but not limited to “pressure treated” lumber and engineered wood products. See the section on colors listed above. The final color selection will be approved by the Board.
1.4 Post-installation modifications
Any modifications to a Board approved application for an exterior improvement must go through the HOA Board’s approval process prior to commencing the modification.
1.5 Maintenance
The Owner is responsible to maintain, repair, replace, and insure any improvements or alterations to their residence or Lot, and must keep these improvements or alterations well maintained in new or like new condition.
Specific Guidelines
2.1 Lawns
As further outlined in Declaration Article VI, Section 6, the Owner is responsible to maintain, repair, and replace the yard area within their Lot. The basics of yard care include, but are not limited to, regular mowing with the height of the grass not to exceed 4 inches, weeding, edging, fertilization, insect control, trimming, removing dead plants/trees, and keeping an overall neat appearance. The yard includes the foundation plantings, all grass areas (including the grass strip between the sidewalk and the street), planting beds, trees, flowers, and the driveway and mailbox areas. The general intent and purpose is to keep everything looking neat and free of debris and clutter.
2.2 Accessory Structures (Storage Sheds)
For purpose of this Section. accessory structures, include storage sheds and playhouses. All accessory structures must be approved by the City and/or County (if applicable) prior to approval by the Board. Total dimensions of an accessory structure must not exceed 200 square feet, with a maximum 10-foot roof height measured from peak to ground. A maximum of one accessory structure per Lot is allowed. The accessory structure must be a constructed with a permanent roof and the roof and doors that match the design of the Owner’s residence (e.g. color, shingles, etc.). The accessory structure base must be designed so that animals are prevented from burrowing underneath the structure. Metal accessory structures sheds are not permitted. Outdoor storage bins of less than 60 cubic feet installed under a deck are excluded. Detached garages are prohibited.
2.3 Decks
The style, size, and height of the deck is dependent on the style of the residence, size of the lot and the surrounding terrain. Decks must be constructed using pressure treated or engineered wood. The supporting structure of the deck must be anchored in concrete.
2.4 Patios
The style, size, and height size of the patio is dependent on the style of the home, size of the lot and the surrounding terrain. They must be constructed of stone, brick, concrete or stamped concrete.
2.5 Swimming pools
Only fully in-ground permanent pools are allowed to be installed on a lot. All pools must be located in the backyard (the portion of the Lot that is behind the rear elevation of the residence). Above ground, or partially in-ground on-ground pools are prohibited to be installed on a Lot permanently. On a seasonal basis, from May 15 to September 15, one temporary a pool of up to 12' in diameter is allowed on a Lot. Outside of those dates, the temporary pool may not be placed or stored on any portion of the Lot that is visible from the exterior.
2.6 Swing and Play Sets
Metal swing or play sets are prohibited. Swing and play sets must be kept in good condition and appearance.
