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ARTICLES
OF INCORPORATION |
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We,
the undersigned persons, acting as the incorporators of a corporation
under the provisions of the Washington Non-Profit Corporation Act, (Revised
Code of Washington, 24.03), adopt the following Articles of Incorporation
for such corporation.
ARTICLE
I
The name of the corporation shall be SUDDEN VALLEY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
(amended on 11-20-75).
ARTICLE
II
The period of duration of the corporation shall be perpetual.
ARTICLE
III
The purposes for which this corporation is organized are as follows:
1) To acquire and hold title in trust to the common areas within the platted
area of the Sudden Valley Development in Whatcom County, Washington, for
the benefit of all lot owners and condominium owners, which original facilities
and common areas shall be transferred to said corporation by Sudden Valley,
Inc., the developer of the Sudden Valley properties.
2)
To establish and collect assessments against each member of the corporation
to provide for maintenance and operation of all the common areas and facilities
transferred to it within the Sudden Valley Development for the mutual
benefit of all its members. Minimum monthly dues of Nine Dollars ($9.00)
shall be assessed and collected against each lot and condominium to provide
the funds required to maintain and control all roads, parks, reserve areas,
community beach areas and recreational areas, and to provide for architectural
and building controls within the limitations of the Restrictive Covenants
of the plats of the Sudden Valley Development, and to provide and pay
all taxes and assessments, if and when levied by the State or any municipal
corporation on said community facilities, and to provide and pay for a
security guard and patrol at all times on said property.
3)
To engage in social and community activities, including the development,
construction, maintenance and operation of any other community facilities
within the area of the Sudden Valley Development, subject to applicable
provisions of these Articles and of the By-Laws of this corporation.
ARTICLE
IV
The corporation shall have all powers provided for non-profit corporation
under Section 24.03.035 of the Revised Code of Washington, except that
said corporation shall have no power to sell real property or real property
interests held in trust by it for the benefit of all lot and condominium
owners.
ARTICLE
V
The corporation shall have one class of members, which shall be all lot
owners and condominium owners within the Sudden Valley Development. The
owner of each lot or condominium shall have one membership for each lot
or condominium owned and shall be entitled to vote on each lot or condominium
owned provided, however, that if two or more lots are bound together by
an Irrevocable Covenant to Bind Lots and Forfeit Membership(s) in the
form prescribed by the corporation’s Board of Directors, and in
the manner prescribed in the corporation’s Bylaws, they shall be
deemed to be one lot for the purposes of membership, voting, dues and
assessments (amended 6-24-00). Each and every lot owner and condominium
owner within the Sudden Valley Development shall be required to become
and remain a member of this corporation and be required to abide by its
Articles, Bylaws, and Rules and Regulations.
ARTICLE
VI
The address of the initial registered office of the corporation shall
be 409 Bellingham Nat’l. Bank Bldg., Bellingham, WA.
The
name of the initial registered agent of the corporation shall be J. Kevin
Downes, 1501 Eldridge, Bellingham, Washington (amended on 6-7-80)
ARTICLE
VII
The number of Directors shall be not fewer than three (3) nor more than
fifteen (15) (amended on 11-20-75) and the initial Board of Directors
of the corporation shall be five (5) Directors. The names and addresses
of the persons who are to serve as the initial Directors of the corporation
and their initial terms of office are as follows:
Position
1:
Jack Phillips
1295 East Long Drive
Burnaby, B.C. Canada
One Year
Position 2:
Ray Williams
No. 4, 7166 Ash Crest
Vancouver, B.C. Canada
Two Years
Position
3:
Roy Sofield, D.D.S.
Sudden Valley
Bellingham, WA 98225
Two Years
Position
4:
Mike Sofie
Sudden Valley
Bellingham, WA 98225
Three Years
Position
5:
Fred DeMeule
202 1441 St. George Ave.
North Vancouver, B.C. Canada
Three Years
Sudden
Valley, Inc., or its successors as assigns, shall have the right to select
one Director, Position Number 4, so long as Sudden Valley, Inc., or its
successor owns property within this development.
ARTICLE
VIII
The names and addresses of the incorporators are the same as the Board
of Directors, as set out above.
ARTICLE
IX
In the event the corporation is dissolved, the net assets of the corporation
shall be distributed in joint ownership to all lot owners and condominium
owners in the Sudden Valley Development.
Dated
this 2nd day of August, 1973.
(Mike
Sofie)
(Dr. Roy Sofield)
(J.A. Phillips)
(A.J. DeMeule)
(Ray D. Willliams)
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RESTRICTIVE
COVENANTS |
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The
following Restrictive Covenants are applicable to all Sudden Valley platted
lots. Some later platted divisions may contain more restrictions. Please
refer to Restrictive covenants for specific divisions, which are on file
in the Association offices. The Restrictive Covenants specific to your
Division should have been received upon purchase of your lot or condo.
If not, contact your title company. The following generic Covenants are
reprinted here for your reference and convenience.
Sudden Valley Community Club, Inc., was renamed Sudden Valley Community
Association November 20, 1975.
THIS
INDENTURE and Declaration of Covenants Running with the Land, made this
28th day of October, 1969, by Sudden Valley, Inc., a Washington corporation,
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS,
said party is the owner of Sudden Valley Divisions, an addition to Whatcom
County, Washington, as recorded in the records of Whatcom County, which
property is located in Whatcom County, Washington, and
WHEREAS,
it is the desire of said party that said covenants be recorded and that
said restrictive covenants be thereby impressed upon said land, now, therefore,
IT
IS HEREBY MADE KNOWN THAT said party does by these presents make, establish,
confirm and hereby impress upon Sudden Valley Division—, an addition
to Whatcom County, Washington, which property is all located in Whatcom
County, Washington, the following Restrictive Covenants to run with said
land, and do hereby bind said parties and all of their future grantees,
assignees and successors to said covenants for the term hereinafter stated
and as follows:
1.
These Restrictions shall apply to subdivided, numbered lots only, other
than the exempt lots, and are specifically excluded from application to
said exempt lots and to other lands designated on the Map as parcels or
as lands of Declarant, which exempt lots, parcels and lands are intended
for future commercial, multiple dwelling, single-family residence, or
recreational uses, as designated on Sudden Valley Divisions as recorded.
2.
The Restrictions and agreements set forth herein are made for the mutual
and reciprocal benefit of each and every lot in the Unit and the Subdivision
to which they are applicable, as herein provided, and are intended to
create mutual, equitable servitudes upon each of said lots in favor of
each and all of the other lots therein; to create reciprocal rights between
the respective owners of all of said lots; to create a privity of contract
and estate between the grantees of said lots, their heirs, successors
and assigns; and shall as to the owner of each such lot, his heirs, successors
or assigns, operate as covenants running with the land for the benefit
of each and all other lots in the Unit and Subdivision and their respective
owners. Restrictions substantially the same as those contained herein
shall be recorded on all future recorded tracts of the Subdivision in
conformity with the general scheme of improvement of all lands to be included
therein; provided, however, Declarant, for a period of five years from
date hereof, shall have the right to amend these restrictive covenants
in order to conform generally with the over-all development and improvement
plan for the lands herein described and other lands of Declarant to be
ultimately included within divisions of Sudden Valley, and may further
be amended by Declarant pursuant to requirements of any city, county,
state or other governmental agency. Thereafter, these restrictions may
be amended at any time by written consent of two-thirds of the record
owners of the lots contained within the subdivisions of Sudden Valley.
3.
No lot shall be used except for residential purposes. No building shall
be erected, altered, placed or permitted to remain on any lot other than
one detached single-family dwelling. No structure of a temporary character,
trailer, mobile home, basement, tent, shack, garage, barn or any other
out-buildings shall be used on any lot at any time as a residence, either
temporarily or permanently.
4.
All plans and specifications for any structure or improvement whatsoever
to be erected on any lot, and the proposed location thereof on any lot
or lots, the construction material, the roofs and exterior color schemes,
any later changes or additions after initial approval thereof, and any
remodeling, reconstruction, alterations or additions thereto on any lot
shall be subject to and shall require the approval in writing before any
such work is commenced of the Architectural Control Committee (herein
called “Committee”), as the same is from time to time composed.
No
trees, shrubs, bushes or other natural growth shall be removed from any
lot without the written approval of the Architectural Control Committee,
and all plans for such removal shall be submitted in writing to such Committee.
The
Architectural Control Committee shall initially be composed of K.A. Sanwick,
Jr., R.C. Marcy and J.R. McGowan. The number of members and the identity
of individual members on such Committee may be changed, altered and/or
modified by the Declarant at any time. Said changes, alterations and/or
modifications shall be deemed to take effect upon the recordation of the
statement to said effect which has been fully executed by the Declarant,
or his successor in interest.
There shall be submitted to the Committee at 1200 Penny Building, 2200
6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 98111 (2145 Lake Whatcom Blvd., Bellingham,
Washington, 98226), or at such other address as the Committee may designate
by an instrument recorded and executed by a majority of the Committee
then in existence, two (2) complete sets of plans and specifications for
any and all proposed improvements, the erection or alteration of which
is desired, and no structures or improvements of any kind shall be erected,
altered, placed or maintained upon any lot unless and until the final
plans, elevations and specifications therefore have received such written
approval as herein provided. Such plans shall include plot plans showing
the location on the lot of the building, wall, fence or other structure
proposed to be constructed, altered, placed or maintained, together with
the proposed construction material, color schemes for roofs and exteriors
thereof and proposed landscape planting.
As
a means of defraying its expenses, the Committee may institute and require
a reasonable filing fee to accompany the submission of plans to it. No
additional fee shall be required for resubmission of plans revised in
accordance with Committee recommendations.
The
Committee shall approve or disapprove plans, specifications and details
within thirty (30) days from the receipt thereof or shall notify the person
submitting them that an additional period of time, not to exceed thirty
(30) days, is required for such approval or disapproval. Plans, specifications
and details not approved or disapproved within the time limits provided
herein shall be deemed approved as submitted. One (1) set of said plans
and specifications and details with the approval or disapproval, endorsed
thereon, shall be returned to the person submitting them, and the other
copy thereof shall be retained by the Committee for its permanent files.
The
Committee shall have the right to disapprove any plans, specifications
or details submitted to it in the event the same are not in accordance
with all of the provisions of this Declaration; if the design or color
scheme of the proposed building or other structure is not in harmony with
the general surroundings of such lot or with the adjacent buildings or
structures; if the plans and specifications submitted are incomplete;
or in the event the Committee deems the plans, specifications or details,
or any part thereof, to be contrary to the interests, welfare or rights
of all or any part of the real property subject hereto, or the owners
thereof. The decisions of the Committee shall be final. Neither the Committee
nor any architect or agent thereof or of Declarant shall be responsible
in any way for any defects in any plans or specifications submitted, revised
or approved in accordance with the foregoing provisions, nor for any structural
or other defects in any work done according to such plans and specifications.
The Committee shall by rule adopt building setback requirements as to
each lot, and such rules shall be binding.
5.
No noxious or offensive activity shall be carried on upon any lot, nor
shall anything be done thereon that may be or may become an annoyance
or nuisance to the neighborhood.
6.
Any dwelling or structure erected or placed on any lot in any subdivision
shall be completed as to external appearance, including exterior finish
within 9 months from date of start of construction.
7.
No sign of any kind shall be permitted on any lot, except one professional
sign of not more than one square foot, listing the name of the owner of
said lot.
8.
No animals, livestock or poultry of any kind shall be raised, bred or
kept on any lot except that dogs, cats or other household pets may be
kept, provided that they are not kept, bred or maintained for any commercial
purpose.
9.
No lot shall be used or maintained as a dumping ground for rubbish; trash,
garbage or other waste shall not be kept except in sanitary containers.
No outside incinerators or other equipment for the disposal of such material
shall be used.
10.
No walls of any kind shall be permitted. No derrick or other structure
designed for use in boring for oil or natural gas shall be erected, maintained
or permitted upon any lot.
11.
Every effort shall be made by the owner not to disturb natural conditions
of the lot as to trees, shrubs, bushes or other ground cover except as
hereinbefore provided with the consent of the Architectural Control Committee.
Original clearing by the Declarant prior to or for the purposes of sale
of a lot shall not constitute a violation of this covenant.
12.
No individual sewage disposal system shall be permitted on any lot unless
the system is designed, located and constructed in accordance with the
requirements, standards and recommendations of Whatcom County and the
Architectural Control Committee. Approval of such system as installed
shall be obtained from such authority. Provided, however, that if an individual
sewage disposal system is permitted pursuant to the foregoing and thereafter
a general sewer system is installed and operating, then in that event,
each lot owner shall be required to make use thereof and terminate his
use of an individual system.
13.
All lots, whether occupied or unoccupied, and all improvements placed
thereon, shall at all times be maintained in such a manner as to prevent
their becoming unsightly by reason of unattractive growth on such lot
or the accumulation of rubbish or debris thereon. No improvement that
has been partially or totally destroyed by fire, earthquake or otherwise,
shall be allowed to remain in such state for more than three months from
the time of such destruction.
14. The Committee may allow reasonable variances and adjustments of these
restrictions in order to overcome practical difficulties and prevent unnecessary
hardships in the application of the provisions contained herein; provided,
however, that such is done in conformity with the intent and purposes
hereof, and provided also that in every instance such variance or adjustment
will not be materially detrimental or injurious to other property or improvements
in the neighborhood, the Unit or Subdivision.
15.
Invalidation of any one of these covenants by judgment or court order
shall in no wise affect any of the other provisions, which shall remain
in full force and effect.
16.
There shall be easements for roads, for ingress and egress, for all lot
owners of the said plat on all roads as shown on the plat referred to
above, as well as on any plat or plats hereafter recorded by the Declarant
covering adjacent property.
No lot shall have or maintain direct access to any county or public road;
each lot is further subject to utility easements over three (3) feet on
each side lot line and five (5) feet on each rear lot line and as otherwise
shown on the face of the plat. Declarant, its successors and assigns,
shall construct all roads shown on said plat or plats, and shall provide
community beaches, park areas, reserve areas, and maintain such facilities
until the same are conveyed to Sudden Valley Community Club, Inc., a non-profit
corporation to be formed. Thereafter, said Club shall maintain and operate
said facilities together with such additional recreational or other facilities
as Declarant may convey to the Club. Said Club shall have the power to
charge and assess its members on an equitable basis for the operation
and maintenance of said facilities provided by the Declarant and to charge
and assess its members on an equitable basis for such additional recreational
or other facilities as shall be duly authorized by its membership for
the mutual benefit of all its members. Land and/or lots of the Declarant,
its successors and assigns, within said plat, which shall be used for
or devoted to recreational purposes, and all unplatted land of Declarant
shall not be subject to assessment or charges by the Sudden Valley Community
Club, Inc., on a land area basis, but only on a reasonable use of facility
basis. In addition to the other obligations of the Community Club and
its members as set forth herein, it shall also be their duty to maintain
a security guard and patrol at all times and pay the costs thereof. Minimum
monthly dues and/or assessments for each member shall be Nine Dollars
($9.00), and said dues and/or assessments shall commence January 1, 1970,
or later at the discretion of the Declarant. Such assessments shall constitute
liens on the real property and may be foreclosed as provided by law. Each
lot owner shall be required to become and remain a member of the Community
Club and abide by its Articles, Bylaws and Rules as the same initially
shall exist and from time to time be changed. Declarant’s unsold
lots shall not be subject to assessment or dues.
17.
These covenants are to run with the land and shall be binding on all parties
and all persons claiming under them for a period of thirty (30) years
from the date these covenants are recorded, after which time said covenants
shall be automatically extended for successive periods of ten (10) years,
unless an instrument signed by a majority of the then owners of the lots
has been recorded, agreeing to change said covenants in whole or in part.
18.
No television or radio antennas of any kind shall be permitted on any
lot or structure. The Federal Telecommunication Act of 1996 overrides
this regulation.
19.
It is the intent and obligation of the Declarant to convey title to the
real property comprising the roads to the Sudden Valley Community Club,
but said Club shall be restricted in its right to convey same and must
hold and maintain same for the benefit of all lot owners. Beneficial Title
only shall be in all lot owners. Said Club at all times must maintain
an adequate reserve fund out of assessment and/or dues as specified in
paragraph 16 for such road maintenance. The amount of such reserves shall
be fixed by an independent engineer and each year certified by the Club
to all Club members.
20. Notwithstanding anything heretofore stated to the contrary, any party
who acquires title to any portion of the subject property by a foreclosure
against the Declarant or by Deed in lieu of foreclosure from the Declarant
succeed to, and have the same rights as are heretofore granted to the
Declarant.
21. Enforcement shall be by proceeding at law or in equity against any
person or persons violating or attempting to violate any covenant either
to restrain violation or to recover damages.
Dated
this 28th day of October, 1969.
Sudden
Valley, Inc.
By
K.A. Sanwick, Jr., President.
By
F. Robert Lee, Secretary.
AMENDMENT TO SUDDEN VALLEY COVENANTS
This
Amendment of Covenants Running with the Land, made this 19th day of October,
1971, by Sudden Valley, Inc., a Washington corporation. The Sudden Valley
Covenants are hereby amended so as to provide the following:
1.
The lien of the assessments provided for in paragraph 16 of the Restrictive
Covenants heretofore recorded shall be subordinated to the lien of any
first mortgage (now or hereafter placed on any lot). Sale or transfer
of any lot shall not affect the assessment lien. However, the sale or
transfer of any lot that is subject to such first mortgage pursuant to
a decree of foreclosure under such mortgage or in lieu of foreclosure
thereof, shall extinguish the lien of such assessments as to payments
thereof that become due prior to such sale or transfer. No sale or transfer
shall relieve such lot from liability for assessments thereafter becoming
due or from the lien thereof.
2.
All permanent utility service shall be underground exclusively.
IN
WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, being the Declarant herein, has hereunto
set its hand and corporate seal the day and year first above written.
Sudden
Valley, Inc.
By
E.C. Mower, President
By
F. Robert Lee, Executive Vice President. |
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BYLAWS
SUDDEN VALLEY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION |
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ARTICLE
I
NAME, MEMBERSHIP AND DEFINITIONS |
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Section
l. Name. The name of the Association
shall be Sudden Valley Community Association (hereinafter referred to
as the "Association").
Section
2. Membership. The membership of the Association shall be described
as follows:
(a) A "member of the Association is defined as any person(s), corporation,
partnership, trust or any other legal entity who owns all or a part of
an interest in one or more lots in Sudden Valley to which membership is
appurtenant. A purchaser under contract to purchase an interest in a lot
shall be deemed the owner for membership purposes. A 'member in good standing'
is any person who is current in the payment of all annual dues assessments
and special assessments, and any charges associated therewith for each
lot owned."
(b) The membership shall consist of and be limited to the owners of lots
in Sudden Valley who shall have one membership for each lot. No lot, whether
owned by one or more persons, corporations, partnerships, trusts or any
other entities, shall have more than one membership per lot. In the event
of multiple owners of a lot, votes and rights of use and enjoyment shall
be as provided in the Restrictive Covenants, these Bylaws, the Rules and
Regulations, and resolutions adopted by the Board or Directors (hereinafter
referred to as the "Board"), but in no event shall more than
one vote be cast for each membership.
(c) No membership privileges shall be suspended; except for nonpayment
of annual dues and assessments, special assessments or any charges associated
therewith. Membership shall be appurtenant to ownership of a lot and no
member may withdraw except upon transfer of title to the real property
to which it is appurtenant.
(d) Each member shall remain personally obligated to
pay all annual dues, assessments, special assessments, and any charges
associated therewith accruing during his/her ownership of the lot without
regard to forfeiture of the rights and privileges of membership in the
Association as provided herein.
(e) Each member shall be subject to the provisions of the Restrictive
Covenants, the Articles of Incorporation, these Bylaws and the Rules and
Regulations including the personal liability for the payment of all annual
dues, assessment, special assessments, and any charges associated therewith.
Publication in the newsletter of the Association of amendments to the
Rules and Regulations approved by the Board shall be deemed official notice.
Non-receipt by a member shall not constitute a release from compliance.
(f) Upon sale of a lot or at the time when a contract to purchase has
been entered into, the membership appurtenant to the lot shall become
the property of the new owner or contract purchaser (hereinafter collectively
referred to as "New Owner"). Only the New Owner shall be entitled
to the privileges and rights of membership in the Association. At the
request of the New Owner, who shall provide satisfactory proof of ownership,
the Secretary shall change the Association records to reflect the new
ownership. Unless otherwise provided herein, the New Owner may exercise
all of the rights and privileges of membership in the Association and
shall be subject to all of the liabilities of membership from the time
the New Owner becomes the record owner of the lot.
Section
3. Definition. Unless prohibited by the context, certain words
used in these Bylaws or in any amendment thereof shall have the meaning
set forth herein.
(a)
"Association" shall mean and refer to Sudden Valley Community
Association, a non-profit Washington corporation, its successors and assigns.
(b) "Bylaws" shall mean the Bylaws of Sudden Valley Community
Association.
(c) "Common Property" shall mean any and all real and personal
property and easements and other interests therein, together with the
facilities and improvements located thereon, now or hereafter owned by
the Association for the common use and enjoyment of the owners.
(d) "Director" shall refer to a duly elected member of the Board
of Directors of the Sudden Valley Community Association.
(e) "Lot" shall refer to any platted lot within the Plats of
Sudden Valley recorded in the office of the Auditor of Whatcom County,
whether or not improvements are constructed thereon, which constitutes
or will constitute, after construction of improvements, a single-family
dwelling site as shown on the plat of the community, or any amendments
thereto. A "lot" shall also refer to a single-family condominium
unit in a multi-family condominium complex within the Sudden Valley Development
and shall also refer to a single-family dwelling site composed of two
or more of the platted lots in the Sudden Valley Development, which have
been bound together by an Irrevocable Covenant to Bind Lots and Forfeit
Membership(s) in the form prescribed by the corporation's Board of Directors
and in the manner prescribed in the corporation's Bylaws. The ownership
of each lot shall include, and there shall pass with each lot as an appurtenance
thereto, whether or not separately described, all of the right, title
and interest of an owner including, without limitation, membership in
the Association.
(f) "Majority" shall mean those eligible votes, owners, or other
groups as the context indicate totaling more than fifty percent (50%)
of the total eligible number.
(g) "Mortgage" shall mean any mortgage, deed to secure debt,
and any and all other similar instruments used for the purpose of conveying
or encumbering real property as security for the payment or satisfaction
of an obligation.
(h) "Mortgagee" shall mean the holder of a mortgage.
(i) "Owner" shall mean the record owner of a lot, whether one
or more person, corporation, partnership, trust or any other legal entity,
who holds fee simple title, provided, however, that a contract purchaser
or vendee on a real estate contract for purchase of a lot shall be deemed
the "owner" for the purposes hereof.
(j) "Person" shall mean any natural person, as well as a corporation,
joint venture, partnership (general or limited), association, trust or
other legal entity. |
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ARTICLE
II
ASSOCIATION: MEETINGS, QUORUM, VOTING, PROXIES |
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Section
1. Place of Meetings. Meetings of
the Association shall be held at the principal office of the Association
or such other suitable place convenient to the members as may be designated
by the Board.
Section
2. Annual and Special Meetings. The annual meeting shall be set
by the Board so as to occur on the first Saturday of November of each
year, commencing at 1 p.m. The President shall have the authority to call
special meetings of the Association. In addition, it shall be the duty
of the President to call a special meeting of the Association if so directed
by resolution of a majority of the Board or upon a petition signed by
fifty (50) members entitled to vote, said petition specifying the purpose
of the special meeting. The President, upon receipt of the petition, shall
cause notice to be given as herein provided for a special meeting to be
held within sixty (60) days of the President's receipt of the petition;
provided, however, that if a special meeting is not called by the President
in a timely manner, any twenty (20) of the original signers of the petition
shall be empowered to call such a meeting and the meeting shall be deemed
to be as if it had been called by the President.
Section
3. Notice of Meeting. It shall be the duty of the Secretary to
mail or cause to be delivered to each member, at the address set forth
in the Association's records, a notice of each annual or special meeting
of the Association stating the date, time and place of such meeting, and
the agenda for the meeting as adopted by the Board of Directors. In addition,
all matters to be presented for a vote of the members at any general or
special meeting shall be generally described in the notice. No business
shall be transacted at any general or special meeting except as stated
in the notice. The mailing or delivery of a notice of a meeting in the
manner provided in this section shall be considered service of notice.
Notices shall be served personally or deposited in the United States Mail,
with postage thereon prepaid, not less than thirty (30) nor more than
fifty (50) days prior to the date of the meeting. Additionally, notice
of each annual or special meeting shall be posted on the bulletin board
of the Association.
Section
4. Waiver of Notice. Waiver of notice of a meeting of the members
shall be deemed the equivalent of proper notice. Any member may, in writing,
waive notice of any meeting of the members, either before or after such
meeting. Attendance at a meeting by a member, whether in person or by
proxy, shall be deemed waived by such member of notice of the meeting,
unless such member specifically objects to lack of proper notice at the
time the meeting is called to order.
Section
5. Quorum. The presence, in person or by proxy, of fifty (50)
eligible members shall constitute a quorum at all meetings of the Association,
provided, however, that the presence, in person, by proxy or by absentee
ballot, of fifty (50) eligible members represented at a meeting of the
Association to elect Board members shall constitute a quorum. Once a quorum
is established at a meeting, a quorum shall be deemed to exist throughout
the meeting regardless of whether a quorum shall cease to exist.
Section
6. Adjournment of Meeting. If any meeting of the Association
cannot be held because a quorum is not present at such time as the meeting
is called, the meeting shall be automatically continued to a specified
time and place to occur within thirty (30) days of the initially scheduled
meeting. The required quorum at the adjourned meeting shall be fifty (50)
members. At such adjourned meeting, no business shall be transacted other
than the business which was originally scheduled to be considered at the
meeting originally called.
Section 7. Voting.
(a) A member shall be entitled to one vote for each lot which
he/she owns which is current in the payment of all annual dues, assessments,
special assessments, and any charges associated therewith.
(b) Each member entitled to vote shall have the right to vote in person
or by proxy the number of lots owned; provided, however, that during election
of Board members each member may vote in person, by proxy or by absentee
ballot, as set forth in subsection (e) or this Section. Voting for election
of candidates to the Board shall also be subject to the terms otherwise
set forth in these Bylaws. No member shall be entitled to cumulate votes.
(c) If a lot is owned by two or more persons, the several owners shall
designate one person to cast the vote for each lot so owned. If a lot
owner owns more than one lot, such owner may cast; one vote for each lot
owned. A corporation, partnership, trust or other legal entity which owns
an interest in any lot must designate one person to cast the vote for
each lot owned. Each person who has the right to cast the one vote for
each lot owned shall be called the voting member. The voting member is
hereby designated as the proper party to receive notices of meetings and
other notices as provided hereunder. The Association shall designate the
voting member for each lot which has failed to designate a voting member
on its behalf.
(d) Voting is by show of voting cards unless a ballot is requested by
at least five (5) members or as otherwise provided in these Bylaws.
(e) Any member entitled to vote in the election of Board members may cast
an absentee ballot in said election, provided that:
(1)
The ballot is on a form authorized by, and the original provided by,
the Nominations and Elections Committee; and
(2) The ballot is sent in a special recognizable envelope with the signature
and division and lot number of the member on the outside with only one
(1) ballot sealed inside and enclosed in a separate ballot envelope
to the Chairman of the Nominations and Elections Committee who shall
open the ballot envelope only after the meeting is in session. All absentee
ballots must be received by the day prior to the election in order to
be valid.
(f) The Association shall not be allowed to cast votes for lots owned
by it.
Section
8. Proxies.
(a) Each member may vote in person or by proxy, provided, however,
that in the election of Board members, each member may vote in person,
by proxy or by absentee ballot. All proxies shall be in the form authorized
by, and the original provided by, the Nominations and Elections Committee.
To be valid, a proxy must be dated and filed with the Secretary before
the appointed time of each meeting. The proxy shall be valid only for
the subsequent annual or special meeting or the adjournment thereof. Upon
filing the proxy with the Secretary, the proxy holder shall obtain the
voting card and ballots necessary to vote each proxy held. A proxy shall
automatically cease upon the happening of any of the following events:
(i) conveyance by the member of his/her interest in the lot;
(ii) receipt of notice by the Secretary of
the death or judicial declaration of
incompetence of the member;
(iii) receipt of written revocation of the proxy;
(iv) or completion of the annual or special meeting.
(b) The Board of Directors may vote proxies granted to it by members pursuant
to a majority vote of the Board.
(c) Proxy forms shall be available at the Association's principal place
of business at least thirty (30) days prior to any annual or special meeting.
Section
9. Conduct of Meetings. The President, or his/her designee, shall
preside over all meetings of the Association. The Secretary shall keep
minutes of the meeting and record in the Minute Book all resolutions adopted
at the meeting as well as a record of all transactions occurring during
the meeting. The Association shall have a parliamentarian, who is not
a member of the Association, present at any meetings of the Association
where a vote of the membership may be taken. The latest edition of the
Roberts Rules of Order shall govern the Association in all cases to which
they are applicable and. in which they arc not inconsistent with these
Bylaws and any special rules of order or resolutions the Association may
adopt. |
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ARTICLE
III
BOARD OF DIRECTORS: COMPOSITION, MEETINGS, POWERS |
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A.
Composition and Selection.
Section
1. Governing Body: Composition. The affairs of the Association
shall be governed by a Board in which all powers of the Association shall
be vested unless otherwise provided herein. The directors shall be members
in good standing of the Association; provided, however, no person from
the same household or persons who jointly own Sudden Valley property may
serve either as a voting or nonvoting member of the Board at the same
time.
Section
2. Number of Directors. The Board shall consist of nine (9) voting
directors who shall be members in good standing throughout their respective
terms in office. In addition, the Board shall be composed of the following
non-voting members:
(a)
The Chairperson of the Architectural Control Committee; and
(b) The Chairperson of the Nominations and Elections Committee.
Section
3. Nominations of Directors. Nomination and election of members
to the Board shall be governed by the following:
(a)
Nominations and Elections Committee shall solicit nominations of eligible
candidates for the Board at least ninety (90) days prior to the annual
meeting and at any other times when a vacancy occurs, at least thirty
(30) days prior to appointment by the Board. At least sixty (60) days
prior to the annual meeting, any member may present to the Nominations
and Elections Committee names of nominees to serve on the Board provided
that written consent to serve accompanies each nomination.
(b) In order to he eligible for election to the Board of Directors, a
candidate must be a member in good standing and remain so and, at least
sixty (60) days prior to the annual meeting, must submit to the Nominations
and Elections Committee a Disclosure or Interest Statement in the form
prescribed by the Committee containing such information as the Committee
may request concerning the business and financial interests of the candidate
together with an agreement to disclose potential conflicts of interest
in any action under consideration by the Association and to abstain from
voting on any motion affecting that interest.
(c) No member shall be eligible for election to the Board for more than
two (2) consecutive terms, plus the unexpired portion of a term to which
he or she is appointed provided that it does not exceed one (1) year.
After the expiration of one (1) year, the member shall again be eligible
for election to the Board.
(d) All eligible candidates shall have an equal opportunity to communicate
their qualifications to members and to solicit votes.
(e) The Chairperson of the Nominations and Elections Committee shall submit
to the membership the names of all eligible candidates along with an absentee
ballot form at least thirty (30) days prior to the annual meeting.
(f) The Nominations and Elections Committee shall supervise the handling
of absentee ballots received prior to the election deadline, secure and
man ballot boxes on the day of the annual meeting, count all ballots and
submit a written report to the President of the Board detailing the results
of the election.
(g) No candidate for election to the Board of Directors shall assist in
the counting of votes.
Section 4. Election and Term of Office. Directors shall
be elected and hold office as follows:
(a)
All eligible members of the Association shall be entitled to vote in the
manner set forth in these Bylaws for all directors to be elected, and
the candidate(s) receiving a plurality vote shall be elected. No more
than three (3) directors shall he elected each year, except when additional
directors are necessary to fill vacancies otherwise existing on the Board.
(b) The term of office of each director shall be three (3) years or until
their respective successors have been elected by the Association, provided,
however, that a director who has replaced a director who has resigned
or otherwise ceases to be a member of the Board except as provided in
Sections below, shall serve until the conclusion of the following annual
meeting of the Association and until a successor is elected. In the election
of two (2) or more directors, the candidates receiving the most votes
shall be awarded the longest available term. Newly elected directors shall
take office immediately following the annual meeting of the membership.
Section
5. Removal of Directors. At any regular or special meeting of
the Association duly called, any one or more members of the Board may
he removed, with or without cause, by a two-thirds vote of the members
present at the meeting in person or by proxy, and a successor may then
be elected to complete the term of office of the removed director. A director
whose removal will be considered at the annual meeting shall be given
at least ten (10) days written notice thereof and shall be given the opportunity
to be heard at the meeting. A director whose removal will be considered
at any special meeting of the Association shall be given written notice
thereof in accordance with Article II, Section 3 of these Bylaws and shall
be given an opportunity to be heard at the meeting.
Any director who has three (3) consecutive absences unexcused by the President
from Board meetings or four (4) absences unexcused by the President; from
board meetings during the fiscal year shall automatically be removed from
the Board. A Board member who has violated the Restrictive Covenants,
Bylaws or Rules and Regulations, or who has failed to pay any annual dues
assessments, special assessments, fines or charges associated therewith
within thirty (30) days of the due date may be removed from the Board
by a vote of the majority of the remaining Board members. A Board member
shall be automatically suspended from participating as a Board member
when charged with a gross misdemeanor or felony which suspension shall
continue until the case is disposed of, provided, however, that; conviction
will result in the Board member being automatically removed from the Board.
Section
6. Vacancies. If a director resigns or otherwise ceases to be
a member of the Board, excluding the removal of a director as set forth
in Section 5 above, the Board shall immediately request the Nominations
and Elections Committee to submit not less than two (2) nominees to fill
the vacancy. The remaining directors shall, by majority vote, elect a
successor(s) from the nominees who shall serve until the conclusion of
the following annual meeting of the Association. The Board shall fill
any such vacancy within sixty (60) days.
B. Meetings
Section 7. Organizational Meeting. The first meeting
of the members of the Board following each annual meeting of the membership
shall be held within ten (10) days thereafter at such time and place as
shall be determined by the Board. The purpose of the organizational meeting
will be for the purpose of electing officers.
Section
8. Regular Meetings. Regular meetings of the Board shall be held
at the principal office of the Association or at such other suitable place
at a time as shall be determined by the majority of the directors. At
least four (4) such meetings shall be held during each fiscal year. If
such meetings are scheduled by the Board on a routine basis, notice of
the prearranged schedule shall be given and no further notice need be
given. Alternately, at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to each meeting,
the Secretary shall give each Board member notice of the meeting and shall
provide public notice, including the agenda, by posting the same at the
Association office.
Section
9. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board may be held
when requested by the President or by a majority of the Board. At least
forty-eight (48) hours prior to each meeting, the Secretary shall give
each Board member notice of the meeting and shall provide public notice,
including the agenda, by posting the same at the Association office.
Section
10. Waiver of Notice. The transactions of any meeting of the
Board, however called and noticed or wherever held, shall be valid as
though taken at a meeting duly held after regular call or notice, if (a)
a quorum is present, and (b) either before or after the meeting, each
of the directors not present signs a written waiver of notice, a consent
to holding the meeting, or an approval of the minutes. The waiver of notice,
or consent need not specify the purpose of the meeting. Notice of a meeting
shall also be deemed given to any director who attends the meeting without
protesting, before or at its commencement, about the lack of adequate
notice.
Section
11. Quorum of the Board. At all meetings of the Board, a majority
of the voting directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction
of business, and the votes of a majority of the voting directors present
at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall constitute the decision
of the Board. A meeting at which a quorum is initially present may continue
to transact business, notwithstanding the withdrawal of directors, if
any action taken is approved by at least a majority of the required quorum
for that meeting. In exceptional circumstances which make it extremely
difficult or impossible for a quorum to be present, the President shall
have the authority to allow the Board to conduct its meeting by means
of a conference telephone or other communications equipment which allows
all persons participating in the meeting to communicate with each other
at the same time, so long as a quorum of directors are present either
in person or via communications equipment as specified herein. In all
other instances, if any meeting cannot he held because a quorum is not
physically present, a majority of the voting directors who are present
at such meeting may adjourn the meeting to a time not less than five (5)
and not more than thirty (30) days from the date thereof. When the meeting
is reconvened, any business which might have been transacted at the original
meeting may be transacted without further notice.
Section
12. Compensation. No director shall receive any compensation
from the Association for acting as a director unless approved by a majority
of the membership.
Section
13. Open Meetings. {RCW} 64.38.035 (2) Except as provided in
this subsection, all meetings of the Board of Directors shall be open
for observation by all owners of record and their authorized agents. The
Board of Directors shall keep minutes of all actions taken by the Board,
which shall be available to all owners. Upon the affirmative vote in open
meeting to assemble in closed session, the Board of Directors may convene
in closed executive session to consider personnel matters; consult with
legal counsel or consider communications with legal counsel; and discuss
likely or pending litigation, matters involving possible violations of
the governing documents of the association, and matters involving the
possible liability of an owner to the association. The motion shall state
specifically the purpose for the closed session. Reference to the motion
and the stated purpose for the closed session shall be included in the
minutes. The Board of Directors shall restrict the consideration of matters
during the closed portions of meetings only to those purposes specifically
exempted and stated in the motion. No motion, or other action adopted,
passed, or agreed to in closed session may become effective unless the
Board of Directors, following the closed session, reconvenes in open meeting
and votes in the open meeting on such motion, or other action which is
reasonably identified.
Section
14. Conduct of Meeting. The President shall preside over all
meetings of the Board. The Secretary shall keep the Minute Book of the
Board, recording all resolutions adopted by the Board and all transactions
occurring at the meeting. The latest edition of Roberts Rules of Orders
shall govern the conduct of all Board Meetings when not in conflict with
these Bylaws and any special rules of order or resolutions the Board may
adopt.
Section
15. Action without a Formal Meeting. Any action to be taken at
a meeting of the directors or any action that may be taken at a meeting
of the directors may be taken without a meeting if all of the directors
consent thereto in writing, provided that a good faith effort has been
made.
C. Powers and Duties.
Section
16. Powers. The Board shall be responsible for the affairs of
the Association and shall have all of the powers necessary and convenient
to conduct the affairs of the Association and, as provided by law, may
do all acts and things except those which are reserved for the members
by the Articles of Incorporation, these Bylaws, or the laws of the State
of Washington. The Board may not transfer any of its responsibilities
to a third party. However, it may delegate the execution of any aspects
of its affairs, provided that such delegation is accompanied by clear
and specific definition of accountability, authority, performance, expectations,
and the means by which performance will be measured.
Section 17. Management Agent. The Board may employ a
management agent(s) at a compensation established by the Board to perform
such duties and services as the Board may authorize. The term of any management
shall be established by mutual agreement of the parties.
Section
18. Borrowing. The Board shall have the power to borrow money
for proper purposes without the approval of the members of the Association.
Section
19. Annual Dues, Assessments, and Special Assessments.
(a)
Annual dues and assessments shall be established by the Board and approved
by a vote of not less than sixty (60%) percent of the members present
in person or by proxy at any annual or special meeting. Annual dues and
assessments provided for herein shall be used for the general purposes
of promoting the recreation, health, safety, welfare, common benefit and
enjoyment of the owners, including maintenance of the Association's real
and personal property, all as may be more specifically authorized from
time to time by the Board. Annual dues and assessments shall be payable
annually, quarterly, or monthly, or as otherwise determined by the Board
and are due on such dates as fixed by the Board. If payment in full is
not received when due, the account shall be deemed delinquent and the
balance of any unpaid annual dues and assessments and charges associated
therewith shall become immediately due and payable. Delinquent accounts
shall be subject to a late charge and a lien filing fee as approved by
the Board.
In addition, the unpaid balance shall accrue interest at a rate established
by the Board until paid in full. The Association shall also be entitled
to recover, from the member, all attorneys' fees and costs incurred because
of a failure of the member to pay dues.
A member is personally obligated to pay all annual dues and assessments
accruing on a lot during the tenure of his/her ownership thereof. A member
is also personally liable for the payment of interest accruing on any
unpaid annual dues and assessments, together with court costs, attorneys'
fees, lien, filing fees, and other reasonable costs of collection. In
the event of delinquency, the entire amount of any unpaid annual dues,
assessments, interest, attorneys' fees, lien, filing fees, and other reasonable
costs of collection shall become a lien against the lot upon which they
accrue, which may be foreclosed as provided by law and/or collected from
the member, his/her heirs, successors and assigns.
(b) In addition to the annual dues and assessments, a special assessment
may also be levied by the Board for the purpose of paying the costs of
capital improvements and repair and other proper purposes as determined
by the membership. Special assessments shall be established by the Board
and approval by a vote or not less than sixty percent (60%) of the members
present in person or by proxy at an annual or special meeting. If payment
in full is not received when due, the account shall be deemed delinquent
and the balance of any unpaid special assessment and charges associated
therewith shall become immediately due and payable. Delinquent accounts
shall be subject to a late charge and lien filing fees as approved by
the Board.
In addition, the unpaid balance shall accrue interest at a rate established
by the Board until paid in full. The Association shall also be entitled
to recover, from the member, all attorneys' fees and costs incurred because
of a failure of the member to pay any special assessment.
A member is personally obligated to pay all special assessments accruing
on a lot during the tenure of his/her ownership thereof. A member is also
personally liable for the payment of interest accruing on any unpaid special
assessments, together with court costs, attorneys' fees, lien filing fees,
and other reasonable costs of collection. In the event of delinquency,
the entire amount of any unpaid special assessments, interest, attorneys'
fees, lien filing fees, and other reasonable costs of collection shall
become a lien against the lot upon which they accrue, which may be foreclosed
as provided by law and/or collected from the member, his/her heirs, successors
and assigns.
(c) The subscription fee for the newsletter published by the Association
shall be included in the annual dues and assessments and shall be mailed
to the voting member at the address of record of each lot so long as the
lot is current in the payment of annual dues and assessments and any charges
associated therewith, including any special assessments. Additional subscriptions
per lot are available at an additional cost as shall be determined from
time to time by the Board.
(d) Suspension of membership due to nonpayment of annual dues, assessments,
special assessments, or any charges associated therewith, and/or termination
of membership due to transfer of title to the real property to which said
membership is appurtenant shall not constitute a release from the personal
obligation to pay such annual dues, assessments, special assessments,
or any charges associated therewith.
(e) The Association shall be exempt from payment of annual dues, assessments
and special assessments on lots owned by the Association.
Section
20. Use Fees. Use fees may be levied against members in amounts
to be determined by the Board for services which benefit specific members,
including fees for use of amenities or facilities, recreational fees,
trash service fees and other special fees. Such fees may be levied against
those members determined by the Board to benefit from or otherwise take
advantage of the services or benefits so provided.
Section
21. Use Rights. The Board may grant other use rights, upon the
payment of such charges as it deems appropriate, to persons who are not
members of the Association. Such use rights shall be subject to the Restrictive
Covenants, these bylaws and any Rules and Regulations or other use restrictions
promulgated by the Association, or the Board, but such rights shall not
include any voting privileges.
Section
22. Fines and Penalties. The Board is authorized to impose monetary
fines and other penalties against members for violations of the Restrictive
Covenants, these Bylaws, and Rules and Regulations of the Association
as might be applicable to the lots, Common Property or other property
of the Association. The Board shall not impose a monetary fine or other
penalty unless and until notice of the provision alleged to have been
violated has been provided as required in the respective documents or
as herein provided. A violator shall be offered the opportunity to appear
before the Appeals Committee of the Board to explain why a fine or penalty
should not he levied or to request an adjustment of the fine or penalty
levied. The Board may assign its power to impose monetary fines and other
penalties to the management staff of the Association. A late charge shall
not constitute a fine. Members shall be personally liable for the payment
of monetary fines and/or other penalties which, if not paid when due,
shall become a lien against the property which may be foreclosed as provided
by law and/or collected from the members, his/her heirs, successors and
assigns.
Section
23. Actions of the Board Directly Benefiting Board Member. Any
member of the Board who can reasonably expect to benefit in a direct or
substantial way from the possible outcome of the Board action under discussion
must disclose each time it is discussed that he/she has such an interest
and abstain from voting on any motion affecting that interest.
(a)
The Board may contract or otherwise deal with any company of which a Board
member is a director, shareholder or an employee, provided such Board
member does not vote on any motion respecting the contract or participate
in any discussion thereof.
(b) With approval of the Board, a member may be reimbursed for expenses
incurred in carrying out business of the Board.
(c) No person closely related to a director or an employee shall be employed
by the Association unless approved by the Board.
Section
24. Rules and Regulations. In addition to such other powers conferred
upon the Board, the Board shall have the power to promulgate such rules
and regulations as it deems appropriate. Members shall be responsible
for complying with the rules and regulations adopted by the Board and
ensuring that their guests and tenants comply therewith. Publications
of the Rules and Regulations in the Sudden Valley Views shall be deemed
official notice to the member of the existence of the rule and regulation
and the obligation to comply therewith. |
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ARTICLE
IV
OFFICERS |
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Section
1. Officers. The officers of the
Association shall be the President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer.
Any two or more offices may be held by the same person, except the office
of president. The Board may also elect such other officers as it deems
necessary, such officers having the authority to perform duties as prescribed
by the Board and the applicable laws of the State of Washington.
Section
2. Election, Term of Office and Vacancies. The officers of the
Association shall be elected annually by a majority vote of the Board
at the organizational meeting of the Board following each annual meeting
of the membership. A vacancy in any office arising because of death, resignation,
removal or otherwise may be filled by the Board for the unexpired portion
of the term.
Section 3. Removal. Any officer may be removed by a majority
vote of the Board whenever, in its judgment, the best interests of the
Association will be served thereby.
Section
4. President. The President shall be the Chief Executive Officer
of the Association and shall preside at all meetings of the Association
and of the Board, unless the President shall direct management or others
to preside. The President shall have all the general powers and duties
which are incident to the office of the President of a corporation organized
under the applicable laws of the State of Washington.
Section
5. Vice President. The Vice President shall act in the President's
absence and shall have all powers, duties and responsibilities provided
for the President when so acting.
Section
6. Secretary. The Secretary shall keep the minutes of all meetings
of the Association and of the Board and shall be in charge of such books
and papers as the Board may direct and shall, in general, conduct all
duties incident to the office of the Secretary of a corporation organized
under the applicable laws of the State of Washington.
Section
7. Treasurer. The Treasurer shall have the responsibility for
the Association's funds and securities and shall be responsible for keeping
full and accurate financial records and books of account showing all receipts
and disbursements, for preparing all required financial statements and
tax returns, and for the deposit of all monies and other valuable affects
in the name of the Association in such depositories as may be designated
by the Board. All checks shall require two (2) signatures as provided
by resolution of the Board. The Treasurer shall cause an annual audited
financial statement to be made available to the Association and cause
quarterly financial statements to be published on a quarterly basis in
the newsletter of the Association.
Section
8. Absence of Officers. In the absence of both the President
and Vice President from a meeting, the directors present shall, by majority
vote, elect from the remaining directors present, other than the Secretary,
a director to be Chairperson of that meeting. In the absence of the Secretary,
the directors present shall choose from among themselves one director,
other than the President, to serve as Secretary at that meeting.
Section
9. Compensation. No officer shall receive any compensation from
the Association for acting as such.
Section
10. Resignation. Any officer may resign at any time by giving
written notice to the Board, the President or the Secretary of the Association.
Such resignation shall take effect on the date of receipt of such notice
or at any later time specified therein. Acceptance of a written resignation
shall not be necessary to make it effective.
Section
11. Agreements, Contracts, Deeds, Licenses, Checks, Etc. All
agreements, contracts, deeds, leases and other instruments of the Association
shall be executed by at least two (2) officers or by such other person(s),
including managing agents, as may be designated by resolution of the Board. |
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ARTICLE
V
COMMITTEES |
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Section
1. General. The Board is authorized
to organize committees to perform tasks and to serve for such periods
as the Board may, by resolution, specify. Committees shall perform the
specific duties as provided in the resolution adopted by the Board. Subject
to approval of the Board, each committee shall adopt its own rules or
procedure; provided that
(a)
a minimum of four (4) meetings shall he held each year,
(b) notice of each meeting shall be posted,
(c) no business shall be conducted with less than a quorum of appointed
voting members present, and
(d) minutes of each meeting shall be filed with the Secretary of the Board.
The
members of these committees shall be members in good standing throughout
the term of office and shall be appointed by the Board, except as otherwise
provided herein.
Section
2. Architectural Control Committee. The Board shall appoint an
Architectural Control Committee consisting of at least five (5) members
in good standing who shall serve rotating terms as provided in the resolution
adopted by the Board. No member of the Committee shall serve more than
two (2) consecutive terms or a maximum of six (6) successive years. After
expiration of one (1) year, the member shall again be eligible for appointment
to the Architectural Control Committee. The Chairperson of the Committee
shall be elected by the members of the Committee during the first meeting
each year and shall serve as a non-voting member of the Board of Directors.
The Architectural Control Committee shall have such powers as are specifically
set forth in the Restrictive Covenants. The Committee may also perform
such additional duties as the Board may, from time to time, designate.
Acting in accordance with the provisions of the Restrictive Covenants,
these Bylaws, Rules and Regulations of the Association and the Guidelines,
the Committee shall act as the hearing tribunal of the Association for
architectural control matters as defined in the Restrictive Covenants
and as may be assigned by the Board.
The Association, through its management staff, shall enforce the provisions
of this Section and may stop any construction in violation of these restrictions
by issuing written cease and desist orders or by application with the
court for injunctive relief. Fines for violation of this Section shall
be assessed by the Board or the management staff of the Association, not
the Committee. Any member of the Board, the Committee, or the management
staff of the Association shall have the right, during reasonable hours,
to enter upon any lot to inspect said lot and any improvements thereon
for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not the Restrictive Covenants,
these Bylaws, the Guidelines, and the Rules and Regulations of the Association
have been or are being complied with. Such person or persons shall not
be deemed guilty of trespass by reason of such entry. A lot owner who
violates any ruling of the Architectural Control Committee shall be subject
to sanctions for violation of a rule, regulation or policy of the Association.
Section 3. Nominations and Elections Committee. The Nominations
and Elections Committee shall be composed of five (5) members in good
standing who shall be elected at the annual meeting to serve until their
successors are elected. Normally, members of the Committee will be elected
for two (2) year terms except that terms are to be staggered so that continuity
of experience will be maintained. For any year in which more than two
(2) vacancies are to be filled, the others will be for one (1) year or
two (2) year terms, chosen so that no more than two (2) terms will expire
in any year. The Committee shall follow the provisions of Article III,
Section 3 of these Bylaws, and shall be bound by the following:
(a)
Nomination and election of the Committee shall immediately follow voting
for Board members at the annual meeting.
(b) The Chairperson of the Committee shall be elected by the members of
the Committee during the first meeting of each year and shall serve as
a non-voting member of the Board of Directors.
(c) No person nominated as a Board member or as a member of the Committee
shall assist in counting votes for election to the Committee.
(d) No person shall be elected to consecutive terms on the Committee but
shall be eligible for re-election after a waiting period of one (1) year.
(e) No person shall serve on the Committee and the Board concurrently,
other than the Chairperson of the Committee serving as the representative
of the Committee.
(f) A plurality of votes shall elect the members of the Committee.
(g) If a member of the Committee fails to serve a full term for any reason,
the Committee shall appoint someone to replace that member until the next
regular election is held.
(h) The Committee shall solicit nominations for candidates to serve on
the Association Board, and the Nominations and Elections Committee, as
well as solicit for applicants to serve on the Architectural Control Committee
and Finance Committee.
(i) The Committee shall supervise the balloting during elections, as set
forth in Article III, Section 3 of these Bylaws.
(j) The Committee shall supervise elections conducted during any annual
or special meetings as set forth in Article III, Section 3(f) of these
Bylaws.
(k) No person may serve on the Nominations and Elections Committee who
is related to a sitting Board member.
Section
4. Finance Committee.
I Membership. The Finance Committee of the Board shall
consist of a minimum of five (5) members and a maximum of seven (7) members
as determined annually by the Board. The Treasurer shall automatically
be a member of the committee. The remaining committee members shall be
comprised of at least one (1) Board member and at least two (2) SVCA members.
The majority of the committee members must have experience or training
in accounting, financial management, or corporate finance. The Treasurer
shall serve as the Chairperson of the committee. Annually the Treasurer
shall submit to the Board a list of names of individuals to serve on the
committee in the coming year. The Board shall consider, but shall not
be required, to select committee members from the list submitted by the
Treasurer.
II Purpose. The Finance Committee's purpose is to assist
the Board in overseeing SVCA's financial affairs in the areas of financial
management, accounting, reporting and internal controls. The committee
may also make recommendations to the Board concerning creation, modification
or implementation of financial policies and/or procedures and make recommendations
pertaining to capital expenditures, budgets, investments and other matters
related to the SVCA's financial affairs.
III Meetings and Procedures. The Finance Committee shall
meet at least ten (10) times annually. All meetings shall be conducted
in accordance with Robert's Rules of Order.
IV Responsibilities. The SVCA Finance Committee shall
provide assistance to the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities
related to management of SVCA financial affairs which assistance shall
consist of:
(a) Determining whether SVCA's accounting policies, procedures, and internal
controls are adequate to safeguard SVCA's assets and to assure legal compliance.
(b) Monitoring income and expenses to determine whether they conform to
the budget approved by the Board.
(c) Evaluating monthly financial reports, capital expenditure requests,
and budgets and make recommendations to the Board with respect thereto.
(d) Periodically reviewing SVCA's financial policies and procedures and
making recommendations to the Board with respect to updates or modifications
thereto.
(e) Evaluating the performance of the outside auditor and when appropriate,
however, at least annually, make recommendations to the Board concerning
retention or replacement of the outside auditor. The outside auditor is
ultimately accountable to the Board.
(f) Annually reviewing the proposed scope of the outside audit and the
proposed fee and make recommendations to the Board with respect thereto.
(g) Reviewing SVCA's investment policies and performances.
(h) Consulting with the Board concerning long-range financial planning.
(i) Performing such additional duties as the Board may, from time to time,
designate by resolution.
Section
5. Executive Committee. The Executive Committee shall be composed
of not less than three (3) officers of the Association and not more than
five (5) voting Board members, provided, that the total number is not
less than four (4). The Executive Committee shall have general supervision
of the affairs of the Association between Board meetings and may perform
such other duties as specified by the Board.
Section
6. Appeals Committee. The Appeals Committee shall be composed
of three (3) Board members of the Association, who shall provide any individual
who has received a notice of violation of the Restrictive Covenants, these
Bylaws or the Rules and Regulations of the Association with an opportunity
for an impartial hearing before a hearing panel, except as otherwise provided
in these Bylaws or in the Restrictive Covenants. The Committee shall elect
a chairperson from its members to serve a one-year term. A hearing panel
shall meet as needed to hear requests for adjustments of fines and penalties
levied as a result of violations of the Restrictive Covenants, these Bylaws,
or the Rules and Regulations or the Association. Each member of the hearing
panel shall be given notice, either oral or written, at least ten (10)
calendar days prior to the date of any meeting. In the event that a member
of the hearing panel does not receive notice as provided herein, his/her
presence at the hearing shall constitute a waiver of the right to receive
notice of said meeting.
The Appeals Committee shall prepare written guidelines and procedures
by which members may request a hearing before a hearing panel to contest
the merits of any alleged violation. These guidelines shall include the
right of a member to appeal a hearing panel decision to the majority of
the remaining Board, and shall set forth the procedure by which said appeal
must be filed. |
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ARTICLE
VI
MISCELLANEOUS |
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Section
1. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Association shall be determined
by resolution of the Board. In the absence of such a resolution, the fiscal
year shall be the calendar year.
Section 2. Books and Records.
(a) Inspection by Members. The Articles of Incorporation, these Bylaws
and the membership register, books of accounting, and minutes of meetings
of members, the Board, and of the committees shall be made available for
inspection and copying by any member of the Association or by his/her
representative at any reasonable time for any reasonable purpose. The
inspection shall take place at the Association's principal place of business.
Use or sale of membership lists by a member, obtained through exercise
of these inspection rights, is prohibited.
The Board shall establish reasonable rules with respect to the type of
notice to be given to the custodian of records by the member desiring
to make the inspection, hours and days of the week when such inspections
may be made, and payment of the cost of reproducing copies of documents
requested by a member.
(b) Inspection by Directors. Every director shall have the absolute right
at any reasonable time to inspect all books, records and documents of
the Association and the physical properties owned or controlled by the
Association. The directors' rights shall include the right to make extra
copies of documents at reasonable cost to the Association.
Section 3. Notices. Unless otherwise provided herein,
all notices, demands, bills, statements or other communications under
these Bylaws shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly
given if delivered personally or sent by first class mail, postage prepaid:
(a) If to a member, at the address which the member has designated in
writing and filed with the Secretary, or if no such address has been designated,
at the last known address or the member; or
(b) If to the Association, to the Board or the managing agent at the principal
office of the Association or at such other address as shall be designated
by notice in writing to the members pursuant to this section.
Section 4. Audit. The Board shall have an annual audit
of the accounts of the Association prepared by a certified public accountant
Section 5. Amendment. These Bylaws may be amended at
any annual or special meeting by a two-thirds vote of the members represented
in person or by proxy at such meeting, provided, however, that notwithstanding
any other provision hereof, all members entitled to notice of meetings
shall receive, at least thirty (30) days prior to said meeting, written
notice of the proposed change, or a summary thereof. In the event that
a summary is provided, the members shall be entitled to obtain a copy
of the text of the proposed change from the Association at its principal
place of business. Amendments shall become effective immediately upon
their adoption unless otherwise stated in the amendment.
Section 6. A. Lot Line Erasure Procedures.
(a) Any member who meets the requirements set forth in paragraph (b) hereof
and any non-member, who wishes to acquire or who has acquired two (2)
or more lots having contiguous lot lines as originally platted and who
seeks to consolidate the lots into one lot may apply to the Board for
a reduction in annual dues, assessments and special assessments.
(b) The Board will not consider any request for reduction in annual dues,
assessments and special assessments unless the member submitting the application
is current in the payment of annual dues, assessments, special assessments
and charges associated therewith, on all of the lots which he or she proposes
to consolidate into one lot.
(c) If the applicant, whether a member or non-member, seeks to obtain
Board approval for a reduction in annual dues, assessments and special
assessments prior to acquiring one or more of the lots, the Board's approval,
if granted, shall be deemed to be binding for a period not to exceed 120
days in which time the applicant must acquire the lot(s) and obtain final
approval of the lot line erasure from Whatcom County. The Board has the
discretion to extend this deadline for good cause shown.
(d) The Board shall approve all requests submitted by members who meet
the requirements set forth in Section 6(b) hereof, provided that the request
seeks to consolidate no more than two lots into one and, provided further,
that neither of the lots being consolidated have been subject to any prior
consolidation. In all other instances, the decision to grant a reduction
in annual dues, assessments and special assessments, and the amount of
any such reduction shall be strictly discretionary with the Board.
(e) The Board will consider only applications which are in the form prescribed
by the Association and accompanied by a payment of one year's advanced
annual dues, assessments and special assessments on the lot to be created
by means of consolidation.
(f) Except in instances set forth in subsection (c) hereof, if
the Board approves an application for a reduction in annual dues, assessments
and special assessments, such approval shall be binding for a period not
to exceed 120 days in which time the applicant must obtain final approval
of the lot line erasure from Whatcom County. The Board has the discretion
to extend this deadline for good cause shown.
(g) A member who has consolidated two (2) or more lots into one shall
execute and record a covenant in the office of the Auditor of Whatcom
County prohibiting himself/herself, his/her heirs, successor's and assigns
from later subdividing the newly constituted lot.
(h) Any member consolidating any number of lots into one lot shall be
entitled to one vote, regardless of the number of lots combined or the
number of annual dues, assessments and special assessments paid.
Section 6. B. Lot Consolidation Procedure.
(a) Any member who meets the requirements set forth in paragraph (b) hereof
and any non-member, who wishes to acquire or who has acquired two (2)
or more lots having contiguous lot lines as originally platted and who
seeks to consolidate the lots into one lot by means of an Irrevocable
Covenant to Bind Properties and Forfeit Membership(s) in a form approved
by the Board may apply to the Board for a reduction in annual dues, assessments
and special assessments.
(b) The Board will not consider any request for reduction in annual dues,
assessments and special assessments unless the member submitting the application
is current in the payment of annual dues, assessments, special assessments
and charges associated therewith, on all of the lots which he or she proposes
to bind into one lot.
(c) If the Board approves an application for a reduction in annual dues,
assessments and special assessments, such approval shall be binding for
a period not to exceed one hundred twenty (120) days in which time the
applicant must complete the process of consolidating the lots by:
1. Complying with the administrative Rules and Regulations and policies
adopted by the Board governing lot consolidation.
2. Recording with the Whatcom County Auditor an Irrevocable Covenant
to Bind Properties and Forfeit Membership(s) in the form approved by
the Board which is signed by the owner(s) of the lots being consolidated,
all lienholders of record, Whatcom County and SVCA; and
3. Providing SVCA with verification from a title insurance company,
in a form acceptable to the Board, that the legal owner(s) of the lots
and all lienholders of record are bound by the Irrevocable Covenant
to Bind Properties and Forfeit Membership(s).
The
Board has the discretion to extend this deadline for good cause shown.
(d) The Board shall approve all requests submitted by members who meet
the requirements set forth in Section 6(b) hereof, provided that the request
seeks to consolidate no more than two lots into one and, provided further,
that neither of the lots being consolidated have been subject to any prior
consolidation. In all other instances, the decision to grant a reduction
in annual dues, assessments and special assessments, and the amount of
any such reduction shall be strictly discretionary with the Board.
(e) The Board will consider only applications which are in the form prescribed
by the Association and accompanied by a payment of one year's advanced
annual dues, assessments and special assessments on the lot to be created
by means of consolidation.
(f) Any member consolidating any number of lots into one lot shall be
entitled to one vote, regardless of the number of lots combined or the
number of annual dues, assessments and special assessments paid.
Section
7. Leasing. A member may lease or otherwise transfer use or occupancy
of any lot for residential purposes only. The term "tenant"
as used herein is defined as a person(s) to whom a member(s) has extended
use of his/her lot as evidenced by a written lease or rental agreement,
a copy of which shall be filed with the Association. Only one couple with
their dependents, or not more than three (3) unrelated adults, are permitted
in any one single family dwelling unit and are considered tenants for
amenity use purposes. A member in good standing who leases his/her residential
unit may assign membership privileges to the tenant; provided, however,
that the tenant shall have no right to vote or right to notice of any
regular or special meeting of the Association. All occupants of any leased
lot, by occupying the lot, agree to abide by, and be subject to, all provisions
of the Restrictive Covenants, these Bylaws and the Rules and Regulations
of the Association, use restrictions, fines, penalties, or injuctive relief
promulgated pursuant thereto by the Association or the Board, which govern
the conduct of owners and which provide for sanctions against owners,
notwithstanding the absence of any such agreement of the tenant set forth
in such tenant's lease agreement. If the Association agrees, the Lessor
may delegate and assign to the Association the authority to evict the
tenant on behalf of and for the benefit of the owner. In the event the
Association proceeds to evict the tenant, any costs, including attorneys'
fees and court costs, associated with the eviction shall be specially
assessed against the owner, and shall be a personal obligation of the
owner.
Once membership rights are assigned by an owner, the owner shall not have
privileges to use the amenities or facilities unless otherwise provided
by resolution of the Board. Privileges shall be reinstated automatically
upon expiration of the lease. Neither the lease nor the rental agreement
shall relieve or release owners from obligations and responsibilities
incidental to their membership, including the personal obligation to pay
annual dues, assessments, special assessments and charges associated therewith.
If an owner rents to another member in good standing, then the owner need
not assign his membership rights and privileges.
Section
8. Dissolution. In the event of dissolution of the Association,
the assets of the Association shall be distributed in the manner provided
by Law.
Section 9. Indemnification. Every director, officer,
agent and employee of the Association now or hereafter serving as such
shall be entitled to indemnification to the extent permitted by state
law as the same may, from time to time, exist.
Section 10. Sudden Valley Views Publication.
(a) It is the intent of the membership that the Association's newspaper,
Sudden Valley Views or it successor, be a vehicle for an uncensored community
exchange of opinions, ideas, and positions of any and all matters of community
interest.
(b) The Board or their designated representative shall be the publisher
of the Association newspaper, but the publisher shall always adhere to
the principles of freedom of the press.
(c) The Editor shall, by contract with the SVCA Board, be an independent
contractor as that term is specifically used and not as an employee of
the Association.
(d) The Editor's contract shall provide the Editor with complete control
of the written content of the Association's newspaper with the sole exception
of any and all materials submitted by the Board of Directors under its
signature for inclusion in any edition.
IN
WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, being all of the Board of Directors
of Sudden Valley Community Association have caused these Bylaws to be
executed and sealed. |
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SUDDEN
VALLEY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION:
Board
of Directors: |
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Approved
by Board 2004 |
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Reprint
during Board 2005 |
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Charles
Rendina
Scott Thiele
Lance Hillengass
Denise Spreitzer
Leslie McRoberts
Jon Wolfe
Paul Nuchims
Dan Marantette
Bob Cooper
Gary Gallant
Ginny Hadd |
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Charles
Rendina
Dan Marantette
Lance Hillengass
Denise Spreitzer
Warren Johnson
Mac Carter
Paul Nuchims
Roger Bull
Scott Thiele
Naomi Bunis
Roger Taylor |
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ACC
GUIDELINES |
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TABLE
OF CONTENTS
INDEX
13
ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL COMMITTEE
13.1
Statement of Principle
Committee Structure
Powers
Commission
Area of Responsibility
Purpose
Objectives
Conduct of Meetings
ACC GUIDELINES FOR DETACHED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCES
14.1
Intent
Scope
ACC Compliance Review
Contractor and Owner/Builder Requirements for Construction Activities
Licensing Requirements
Portable Toilet
Trash Removal
Speed Limits
Track-type Vehicles
Concrete Trucks
Violations
Site and Lot Requirements
Property Coverage and Open Space Requirements
Minimum Setbacks
Area and Density Requirements
Vision Clearance
Driveways
Parking
Culverts and Ditches
Structure Requirements
Minimum Interior Living Space
Height Regulations and Definitions
Exterior Finishes
(a) Paint Colors
(b) Roofing
(c) Siding
(d) Miscellaneous
Exterior Lighting
Storm Water Drainage
Accessory Structures
Propane Tanks
Fences
(a) Design Elements and Placement Requirements
(b) Living (Vegetative) Fences
(c) Non-Vegetative Fences
(d) Privacy Screens
(e) Submittal Process
Course of Construction Activity
Hours of Operation
Lot Clearing and Excavation
Erosion Control
Inspections
Re-inspections
Completion of Construction/Time Limits
Construction Submittals
14.8.1 Process of Approval for Construction of an Addition or a Detached
Single Family Residence
13.2.2 Construction Application
14.8.3 Preliminary Review
14.8.4 Submittal Deadline and Completeness
14.8.5 Other Submittal Requirements
14.8.6 ACC Compliance Review
14.8.7 Disposition, Quality and Content of Submittals
14.8.8 Submittal Fees
14.8.9 Completion Deposit
14.8.10 Survey Requirements
14.8.11 Pre-meeting Site Preparation
14.8.12 Variances
14.9
Landscaping
14.9.1 Landscaping Guidelines
14.9.2 Landscaping Plan Submittal
14.10
Tree Removal and Limbing
14.10.1 Tree Removal and Limbing Policies
14.10.2 Tree Removal and Limbing Criteria
14.10.3 Tree Removal and Limbing Submittal
14.11 Property Maintenance
14.11.1 Developed Property
14.11.2 Tree Maintenance
14.11.3 Storm Water Control
14.11.4 Street Address
14.11.5 Exterior Storage
14.11.6 Damaged Structure Replacement
14.12 Definitions
15
ACC GUIDELINE FOR SIGNS ON PLATTED LOTS
15.1
General
15.2 Address
15.3 For Sale Signs
15.4 Open House Signs
15.5 Construction Signs
15.6 Other Signs
ENFORCEMENT
16.1
General
Appeals
Court Relief
APPENDIX A – Driveway and Culvert Specifications
APPENDIX B – Height Regulations
APPENDIX C – Vinyl Siding Specifications
APPENDIX D – Storm Water Retention System Design
APPENDIX E – Fence Designs
APPENDIX F – Erosion Control
APPENDIX G – Lighting
APPENDIX H – Exposed Concrete
APPENDIX I – Propane Tank Locations
APPENDIX J – Sample Site Plan
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| QUICK
REFERNCE |
| ACC
Agendas |
13.8 |
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Sheds |
14.6.6,
13.4 |
| Accessory
Structures |
14.6.6,
13.4 |
Siding |
14.6.3(c),
13.4 |
| Address |
14.11.4,
15.2 |
Signs |
15 |
| Architectural
Control Committee |
13 |
Site
Plan |
14.8.7(a) |
| Area
Requirements |
14.5.3 |
Site
Requirements |
14.5 |
| Burning |
14.7.2(d) |
Speed
Limits |
14.4.4 |
| Cluster
Lots |
14.5.1(d),
14.5.8 |
Square
Footage |
14.6.1 |
| Completion
Deadline, New Const. |
14.7.6 |
Stormwater
Drainage |
14.6.5,
14.11.3 |
| Completion
Deposits |
14.8.9 |
Street
Address |
14.11.4,
15.2 |
| Concrete
Trucks |
14.4.6 |
Structure
Requirements |
14.6,
14.9.3 |
| Construction |
14.4,
14.7, 14.8, 15.5 |
Survey |
14.8.10 |
| Construction
Time limits |
14.7.6 |
Track
Vehicles |
14.4.5,
17.1.2(c) |
| Contractors |
14.4 |
Trash
Removal |
14.4.3 |
| Culverts |
14.5.7,
13.4, Appendix A |
Tree
Limbing |
14.10,
13.4 |
| Density
Requirements |
14.5.3 |
Tree
Removal |
14.10,
13.4, 14.11.2 |
| Ditches |
14.5.7 |
Variances |
14.8.12 |
| Drainage |
14.6.5 |
Violations |
14.4.8,
17 |
| Driveways |
14.5.5,
14.5.6, 13.4, Appendix A |
Vision
Clearance |
14.5.4 |
| Enforcements |
16 |
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| Erosion
Control |
14.7.3,
14.9.1(c)(d)(f), Appendix F |
Appendixes |
| Excavation |
14.7.2 |
Driveway
Specs. |
Appendix
A |
| Exposed
Concrete |
14.6.3(c)(5),
Appendix H |
Driveway
Profile |
Appendix
A |
| Exterior
Lighting |
14.6.4,
Appendix G |
Height
Definitions |
Appendix
B |
| Fees |
14.8.8,
14.8.9 |
Vinyl
Siding Regs. |
Appendix
C |
| Fences |
14.6.8,
13.4, Appendix E |
Retention
Pit Specs. |
Appendix
D |
| Height
Regulations |
14.6.2,
Appendix B |
Fence
Designs |
Appendix
E |
| Hours
of Operation |
14.7.1 |
Erosion
Control |
Appendix
F |
| House
Maintenance |
14.11 |
Outdoor
Lighting Specs. |
Appendix
G |
| Inspections |
14.7.4,
14.7.5 |
Exposed
Concrete |
Appendix
H |
| Landscape
Maintenance |
14.11 |
Propane
Setbacks |
Appendix
I |
| Landscaping |
14.9,
14.10, 13.4, 14.11.1 |
Sample
Site Plan |
Appendix
J |
| Lighting |
14.6.4,
Appendix G |
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| Littering |
14.4.3 |
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| Lot
Clearing |
14.7.2 |
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| Lot
Requirements |
14.5,
14.9 |
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| Minimum
Square Footage |
14.6.1 |
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| Open
Space Requirements |
14.5.1 |
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| Painting |
14.6.3(a),
13.4 |
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| Parking |
14.5.6,
14.5.5, 13.4 |
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| Play
Equipment |
14.2 |
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| Portable
Toilet |
14.4.2 |
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| Privacy
Screens |
14.6.8(d),
13.4 |
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| Propane
Tanks |
14.6.7,
13.4, Appendix I |
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| Property
Coverage |
14.5.1 |
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| Property
Maintenance |
14.11 |
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| Retaining
Walls |
14.9.1(c)(d) |
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| Roofing |
14.6.3(b),
13.4 |
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| Setbacks |
14.5.2 |
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SVCA
ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL GUIDELINES FOR DETACHED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE |
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In
this section you will find the entire set of Architectural Control Guidelines
as revised during 2000 by the SVCA Board of Directors. The SVCA Restrictive
Covenants, paragraph 16, along with the Bylaws, authorize the Board to
promulgate and amend such rules and regulations as it deems appropriate.
These
guidelines are administered by the Architectural Control Committee and
enforced by staff. The committee is comprised of volunteer property owners
appointed by the Board of Directors.
The ACC Officer is the administration staff member responsible for enforcement
of the Restrictive Covenants and ACC Guidelines, but is primarily available
to help property owners achieve their individual desires within the constraints
of the guidelines.
All
property owners are urged to maintain their lots in a neat and clean manner
and in accordance with the regulations of Sudden Valley. With voluntary
compliance, costs are reduced, property values are maintained and Sudden
Valley remains a pleasant community in which to reside.
13. ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL COMMITTEE:
13.1
- STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLE: In considering the geographic position
of Sudden Valley within the Lake Whatcom Watershed, the program for any
development within Sudden Valley should consider the rights and interests
of its residents, balanced with legitimate concerns for preservation of
environmental and aesthetic resources. In addition, the scale and character
of the physical development should be consistent with the natural, forested
setting in which the community exists. The following descriptions of the
Architectural Control Committee (ACC) and its functions are derived from
the Restrictive Covenants (RC), which are binding upon all lots in platted
divisions and designated condominium tracts within the boundaries of Sudden
Valley.
13.2 - COMMITTEE STRUCTURE: The Architectural Control
Committee shall be composed of at least five (5) members of the Sudden
Valley Community Association appointed for staggered three (3)-year terms
by the Community Association Board of Directors. Alternates serve one
(1) year terms. Meetings shall be held twice monthly on dates designated
by the Committee (RC #4).
13.3 - POWERS: The Committee shall have the right to
disapprove any plans, specifications or details submitted to it in the
event the same are not in accordance with all provisions of these Guidelines;
if the design or color scheme of the proposed building(s) or other structure(s)
is not in harmony with the general surroundings of such property or with
adjacent buildings or structures; if plans and specifications are incomplete;
or in the event the Committee deems the plans, specifications, details
or any part thereof to be contrary to the interests, welfare or rights
of all or any part of the real property subject hereto, or the owners
thereof. The decisions of the Committee shall be final (RC #4).
13.4 - COMMISSION: Plans and specifications for any structure
or improvement to be erected on any property within the boundaries of
Sudden Valley, the proposed location on the subject property, the materials,
roofs, and exterior color schemes, any later changes or additions after
initial approval, and any remodeling, rebuilding, alterations or additions
thereto shall be subject to and require the written approval of the Committee
before such work commences.
13.5 - AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY: The Committee shall concern
itself with the overall planning, specific sites and building aesthetics.
In no way shall the Committee confirm assumed geological condition, structural
method proposed nor the general adequacy of safety of any proposed structure(s).
13.6 - PURPOSE: The purpose of the Committee shall be
to assist in maintaining the "undevelopment" concept of Sudden
Valley through application of the Restrictive Covenants - ensuring the
highest possible degree of harmony between natural and manmade systems,
and that continued development does not unduly diminish the quality and
aesthetic integrity of both the natural and built environments.
13.7 - OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the Committee shall
be:
(a) To create and maintain an aesthetically desirable
community by encouraging sensitive architectural design of the individual
residences, recreation retreats, condominiums, commercial structures
and related facilities.
(b) To encourage maximum creative architectural response
to each individual site as well as to the area and region.
(c) To protect individual property owners from the
results of indiscriminate construction by others that would adversely
affect surrounding property values and the general aesthetic quality
of Sudden Valley.
(d) To review plans for any condominium or commercial
development planned for Sudden Valley and the setting of each tract
considering land use, environment, traffic and amenities, and other
elements as delineated in the Restrictive Covenants for Sudden Valley
Condominium Tracts and Commercial development regulations. (Information,
Covenants, Rules and Regulations pertaining to Condominium and Commercial
development are published under separate cover and are available through
the ACC office.)
13.8
- CONDUCT OF MEETINGS: ACC meetings are held regularly in the
morning on the first and third Thursday of each month in the SVCA Adult
Center (unless otherwise announced). Meetings are open to all members
in good standing whose written and/or oral comments will be accepted and
taken into consideration by the Committee during discussion and final
decision of a proposal. Notices are posted and agendas are available at
the Administration office in the Clubhouse at least 24 hours prior to
each regular meeting and are also posted on Channel 10. Owners and residents
are encouraged to stay informed about pending development activities through
this process. Written notice of Committee decisions normally is available
within five (5) working days after the meeting date. Minutes of the meetings
normally are available for inspection during regular office hours at the
Administration office no later than ten (10) working days following the
meeting (15 working days during months in which there are five Thursdays).
Decisions of the Committee are final (R.C. #4) and cannot be appealed
to the SVCA Board.
14.
ACC GUIDELINES FOR DETACHED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCES:
14.1
- INTENT: These guidelines are intended to help property owners
design, build and maintain single-family homes that will meet the intent
of the Committee's objectives. Implied in these objectives is a desire
to avoid a "tract-like" appearance in Sudden Valley and therefore,
repeating the same house plan will be discouraged. One important aspect
when selecting a design is the lot itself. Rather than reshaping
the lot to fit the house, the size, shape and topography of the lot should
dictate design characteristics. Given the unique nature and variability
of each lot, it should be possible to achieve diverse architectural designs
while maintaining a high degree of sensitivity to the natural environment.
While it may not be economically feasible for every lot owner to employ
a professional designer, it is recognized that there are sufficient numbers
of "off the shelf" (stock) plans, which, when modified, should
satisfy constraints regarding aesthetics, open space and tree preservation.
14.2
- SCOPE: Any changes that affect the exterior appearance of a house
or lot including new construction, additions, parking spaces, fences,
outdoor play equipment, sculptures, retaining walls, tree removal or planting
and any other exterior features shall require prior approval by the Committee.
The community places a high value on preservation of healthy native trees
and natural features. With respect to the degree to which lot size and
structure design affect tree removal, the Committee is empowered to deny
approval of plans or require redesign or relocation of the structure on
the lot based on tree preservation and/or environmental concerns. Neither
"A-frame" houses nor "Manufactured Homes" will be
approved (see section 14.12.19). The Committee recognizes that the construction
industry is rapidly changing and recommends that property owners or contractors
wishing to use new construction technologies first submit for pre-approval
prior to making substantial investments in plans or permits (see section
14.8.3)
14.3 - ACC COMPLIANCE REVIEW: In order to verify that
all proper permits have been obtained, the property owner or his/her designee
must provide to the ACC Office the original County stamped and approved
planset and building permit prior to commencement of construction. Only
after such verification and payment of the Completion Deposit will SVCA
issue final approval to proceed, and such approval to proceed will include
any conditions or reservations imposed by the Committee. Both County AND
Sudden Valley approved plansets and permits must be consulted during construction
to ensure compliance to all regulations and permit conditions. Note: Failure
to obtain SVCA authorization to proceed prior to commencement of construction
will result in issuance of a Stop Work Order and Notice of Violation to
the owner.
14.4
- CONTRACTOR AND OWNER/BLUILDER REQUIREMENTS FOR CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES:
14.4.1
Licensing Requirements: Other than direct employees of Sudden
Valley, any individual or company performing work or providing contracting
services within Sudden Valley shall possess a current and valid
State of Washington General or Specialty Contractor's License and Bonding,
and when requested, provide to the Association proof of such valid license
and bond.
Any
individual or company making application for new construction, repair
or substantial remodeling within Sudden Valley shall provide to the
ACC a current and valid State of Washington General Contractor's license,
unless owner-built for owner use in accordance with exceptions to state
licensing requirements. A Certificate of Insurance evidencing general
liability coverage of at least five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000)
shall also be provided.
(a) Any contractor working in Sudden Valley who violates
on three (3) or more occasions the Bylaws, Restrictive Covenants or
these Rules and Regulations such that his/her actions may be considered
flagrant, or is the subject of any criminal or civil action for license
violations, breach of trust, fraud or other illegal or unethical activities,
may be subject to official censure by the Association's Board of Directors
and thereafter limited or denied access to Sudden Valley property.
(b) Any unlicensed contractor or subcontractor found
to be performing work for compensation may be prohibited access to
Sudden Valley until evidence of such licensure is verified.
(c) SVCA may report to the proper authorities any
known or suspected incidence of illegal contracting activity.
14.4.2 Portable Toilet: The owner or contractor shall
provide on the building lot one temporary portable toilet facility,
equivalent in sanitary effectiveness to a "Port-O-Let," placed
no closer than five feet from the roadway and in a location least offensive
to people in adjoining homes or on the Golf Course. It shall remain
in place until such time as the house toilet facilities are operable.
14.4.3 Trash Removal: The owner or contractor shall,
if requested by SVCA, provide on the building lot an adequate container
for the placement of trash. The contractor shall ensure that his/her
workers, as well as those of his sub-contractors, make proper use of
the container. The contractor or owner shall be responsible for removal
and proper disposal of all unwanted construction and clearing debris
from the site, and such removal shall coincide with construction. Littering
of the job site and adjacent properties with lot-clearing debris or
builder's trash, empty bottles and cans, paper wrappers, plastic, etc.,
is strictly prohibited and subject to notice of violation. Burying trash
or organic debris anywhere on the lot is prohibited.
14.4.4 Speed Limits: The posted speed limits and all
traffic laws must be observed by the builder and the sub-contractors
to preserve their privilege of access to Sudden Valley.
14.4.5 Track-type Vehicles: Track-type vehicles (with
either growser or "street" tracks), concrete pump or bucket
truck metal outrigger pads shall not be permitted in direct contact
with paved surfaces. Appropriate protection must be placed under the
tracks or pads to prevent direct contact.
14.4.6 Concrete Trucks: Concrete trucks and pumps shall
only be cleaned or washed out onto the jobsite property or other Sudden
Valley specified area. Owners shall provide an appropriate area on their
lot, and such material shall not be discharged or permitted to flow
into any adjacent property or drainage ditch.
14.4.7 Fire Prevention: Contractors shall have a fire
extinguisher on site at all times. A spark arrestor must be installed
on all relevant pieces of equipment used in construction. A viable water
supply with an attached ¾ in hose of adequate length must be
available at all construction sites at the time of footing and floor
elevation inspection.
14.4. 8 Violations: It shall be the property owner's
responsibility to ensure that any contractor performing work on the
owner's behalf complies with these rules. Violations of the Restrictive
Covenants, these Rules and Regulations, or the Architectural Control
Committee Guidelines will be called to the attention of the contractor
and property owner, and a fine may be assessed accordingly. The property
owner shall receive a Notice of Violation for infractions and shall
be responsible for repair of any property damage resulting from actions
of the contractor. Any outstanding violations or fines must be resolved
or paid before new permits or change requests will be processed for
either the contractor or the property owner. The property owner will
ultimately be held responsible for any fines assessed.
14.5
- SITE AND LOT REQUIREMENTS:
14.5.1
Property Coverage and Open Space Requirements: Measurements
for determining these percentages shall be measured on a horizontal
plane.
(a) Property Coverage Rule - The principle building
and accessory structure footprint, inclusive of eave projections and
exclusive of driveways and decks, shall occupy no more than thirty-five
percent (35%) of the lot.
(b) Open Space Rule - At least fifty percent (50%)
of the lot shall be kept free of all structures, including but not
limited to all areas covered by weather-tight roof, decks, steps,
driveways, hard surfacing and parking areas.
(c) The minimum 50% open space as required herein
shall be a continuing obligation. Such space shall be maintained with
porous ground cover, and no parking or storage of materials shall
be permitted in the open space.
(d) Special rules apply to Cluster lots see section
14.5.8.
14.5.2 Minimum Setbacks: Setbacks will be measured
from the structure, including roof projections and decks.
Minimum setbacks for later platted divisions may be more restrictive.
See the covenants for that specific division. The Whatcom County Zoning
Ordinance (Title 20) shall apply in the event minimum setbacks are greater
(more restrictive). Prospective builders are urged to consult County
zoning officials prior to site plan preparation. Minimum Sudden Valley
setbacks are as follows:
Front - Twenty (20) feet from right-of-way margin.
Rear - Five (5) feet.
Interior Side - Five (5) feet.
Side Yard on a Flanking Street - Twenty (20) feet from right-of-way
margin, where feasible.
Stream Buffers - Twenty-five (25) feet wide vegetated buffers
shall be maintained between any structure (other than those considered
strictly landscaping) and the ordinary high water mark (limit of vegetation)
of adjacent perennial streams.
Cluster Lots - Special rules apply to Cluster lots see section
14.5.8.
14.5.3
Area and Density Regulations:
(a) No building or structure, nor the enlargement of any building
or structure, shall be permitted or located on any lot unless in conformity
with these area regulations.
(b) No platted lot now existing or hereafter established shall be
subdivided, reduced or diminished in size such that yards, open space
or total area be made smaller than the minimum required by these regulations;
nor shall any lot or parcel of land that is now smaller than the minimums
required by the regulations be further reduced or diminished in size
by any grant or action.
14.5.4 Vision Clearance:
(a) All corner properties shall maintain a clear
triangle at the intersecting street right-of-way. This area shall
contain no planting, fence, wall, vehicles, temporary or permanent
obstruction exceeding thirty (30) inches in height, measured from
the mean grade of the intersecting streets except that trees exceeding
this height may be located in this area, provided all branches and
foliage are removed to a height of ten (10) feet above the grade.
(b) One angle of this triangle shall be formed by
the intersecting street right-of-way. The sides of the triangle measured
along the property lines from said angle shall be twenty (20) feet
in length. The third side of such triangle shall be a straight line
connecting the ends of the two aforementioned lines.
14.5.5 Driveways:
(a) Driveways must not intersect streets or thoroughfares
within thirty (30) feet of an intersection.
(b) The first five (5) feet of any driveway connecting
with an SVCA road shall be paved and flush with the roadway edge,
using either asphalt or concrete to reduce "loose rock"
damage to SVCA roads and reduce the hazard to two wheeled vehicles.
(c) All driveways where the slope exceeds 10% (i.e.
over 6 degrees uphill) must be paved from the edge of the paved right-of-way
to the property line or fifteen (15) feet, whichever distance is greater.
(d) Where there is positive grade (uphill) from the
street, driveway approaches should be properly configured to prevent
storm or domestic water from flowing onto the roadway below by construction
of a swale, 4 inch minimum width strip drain or other approved catch
basin (see appendix A).
(e) Driveways and keyways shall be constructed to
minimum SVCA standards. Minimum driveway width is twelve (12) feet
and maximum width is twenty (20) feet (see appendix A).
(f) The maximum driveway slope shall not exceed 50%
(26.5 degrees)(see appendix A).
(g) A driveway turn-around may be required in situations
with identified safety concerns.
(h) Treated timbers or other suitable edging shall
be placed along crushed rock driveways to define access and parking
areas and to contain and minimize the scattering of rock. Timbers
treated with creosote are not permitted.
14.5.6
Parking: Creating or installing additional parking capacity
requires prior ACC approval.
(a) Each single-family dwelling shall have a minimum
of two (2) parking spaces, at least one of which shall be enclosed
in the form of an attached garage.
(b) All garages shall be constructed to allow a minimum
of twenty (20) feet of driveway between the garage door and the property
line.
(c) Special rules apply to Cluster lots see section
14.5.8.
14.5.7 Culverts and Ditches: Grass or rock-lined open
ditches shall be preferred over culverts (covered pipe systems), due
primarily to the capacity of open ditches to capture runoff from the
road surfaces and to provide for the energy dissipation and infiltration
of runoff. Culvert installation or extensions require prior ACC approval.
(a) New culvert installations shall be the responsibility
of the property owner.
(b) Within SVCA road right of ways, maintenance of
properly installed culvert pipes shall be the responsibility of the
Association. The abutting property owner is responsible for keeping
ditches and ends of culvert pipes clear of debris that could impede
water flow. Should replacement or repair of any damaged or improperly
installed culvert become necessary, it shall be the responsibility
of the abutting property owner to replace or repair said culvert upon
notice from the SVCA.
(c) The Drainage System Master Plan for SVCA (Bell-Walker,
1982), together with sound engineering principles, shall be the basis
for establishing minimum culvert sizes, specifications, and other
requirements for any given application.
(d) In addition, installation of all drainage culverts,
culvert extensions and diversions shall be subject to certain minimum
standards judged appropriate to the site by SVCA. The culvert pipe
shall be corrugated metal, concrete, or double walled ABS pipe. The
minimum diameter allowed is 12 inches. Any embankment next to the
ends of the pipe shall be sealed or rip rapped to prevent erosion
(see appendix A).
(e) A concrete catch basin, type one with cleanout,
shall be installed every 40 linear feet of culvert and at any change
in the culvert’s horizontal or vertical alignment.
14.5.8 Special Rules for Cluster Lots: Cluster lots
are defined as platted lots that are adjacent to a common platted parking
area that usually serves four or more lots.
(a) The thirty-five percent (35%) property coverage
limitation shall not apply to cluster lots.
(b) The open space requirement remains at fifty percent
(50%); however for purposes of calculating the allowed coverage, the
square-foot area corresponding to the undivided interest in the adjacent
parking area is included in the calculation to determine the allowed
coverage.
(c) However the square-foot area corresponding to
the undivided interest in the adjacent parking area used in the calculation
can not be greater than ½ the actual lot size.
(d) Cluster lot, open space calculation method.
Example:
For a 3000 sq. ft cluster lot, adjacent to a 4000 sq. ft parking
area that serves four cluster lots.
3,000 sq. ft Cluster lot size
1,000 sq. ft. ¼ undivided interest in 4000 sq. ft. parking
area (4000 ÷ 4 but not greater than 3000 ÷ 2)
4,000 sq ft Total square footage used for calculating 50% rule.
Example:
For a 3000 sq. ft cluster lot, adjacent to an 8000 sq. ft parking
area that serves four cluster lots. In this example the undivided
interest in the parking area calculation is limited by the requirement
of subsection (c).
3,000
sq. ft. Cluster lot size
1,500 sq. ft. ¼ undivided interest in 8000 sq. ft. parking
area (8000 ÷ 4 but not greater than 3000 ÷ 2)
4,500 sq ft Total square footage used for calculating 50% rule.
(e)
Cluster lots minimum setbacks – Setbacks will be measured from
the structure, including roof projections and decks. The setback from
the road right of way margin for a cluster lot is twenty (20) feet.
When the house is facing the platted parking area and the driveway
access is from the platted parking area, a side setback to the road
right of way margin of less than 20 feet may be considered. All other
setbacks are 5 feet minimum to the eaves. Setbacks for cluster lots
not adjacent to the road right of way margin are 5 feet minimum to
the eaves on all sides.
(f) Cluster lot parking requirements - Each single-family
dwelling shall have a minimum of two (2) parking spaces one (1) of
which shall be enclosed in the form of an attached garage. All garages
shall be constructed to allow a minimum of twenty (20) feet of driveway
between the garage door and the adjacent platted parking area where
feasible.
14.6 - STRUCTURE REQUIREMENTS:
14.6.1 Minimum Interior Living Space: For all new construction,
a minimum finished interior living space (see
definition) of one thousand four hundred (1,400) square feet, exclusive
of garages, is required. A minimum footprint, inclusive of garages,
of one thousand (1000) square feet is also required. Minimum requirements
for later platted divisions may vary according to the covenants for
that specific division. Variances to this requirement for special circumstances
may be allowed by written request (see section 14.8.12).
14.6.2 Height Regulations: Maximum structure height
in Divisions one (1) through thirty-four (34) shall be thirty (30) feet
under Definition I or twenty (20) feet under Definition II (see appendix
B). Height limitations for later platted divisions may vary according
to the covenants for that specific division. The owner, upon application,
may elect either height definition, but structures shall not exceed
the height limits as specified.
14.6.3 Exterior Finishes: Exteriors shall be composed
of materials compatible to surroundings and in keeping with the Committee
purposes and objectives (see sections 13.6 and 13.7).
(a) PAINT COLORS - The use of "subdued"
exterior colors that blend into a forested setting is required. Approval
of owner selections shall be discretionary with the Committee and
shall be limited to specific site applications. Approval of a color
in one location does not necessarily mean the color is deemed approved
for all locations. Custom colors are approved or disapproved based
on other criteria, including possible negative contrast with the streetscape
and surrounding areas.
(1) Unless otherwise approved, garage doors and
panels are considered part of the body of the house for paint purposes.
(2) Structures found to be in noncompliance with
these color guidelines may be required to be repainted immediately
following their discovery and notice of noncompliance from the Association.
(b) ROOFING - Roofing materials should be of fire-resistant
materials and may consist of asphalt/fiberglass shingles, cement tiles,
composites, metal and/or other specialized roofing materials subject
to Committee approval. Wood shingles or shakes are not permitted.
Type and color choices for all materials shall be submitted to and
approved by the ACC prior to application on any residence, addition
or accessory structure. The Committee will not approve a submission
for partial re-roofing with a material or color that is different
than the existing roof.
(c) SIDING - Siding may consist of wood or wood products,
rock and/or brick veneers, vinyl (see appendix C for specifics) and
stucco (when combined with other approved siding type). Samples of
the proposed material may be requested by the Committee. Approval
of any non-conventional material(s) shall be discretionary and may
be limited to that specific site.
(1) No asphalt or aluminum materials shall be used
or approved for use as siding.
(2) Use of wood and/or composite panel (4x8 or
longer sheets) as exterior siding products, i.e. "T-1-11"
or equivalent, is subject to the following standards. Panels shall
be 5/8-inch minimum thickness for use in "single wall"
construction, 3/8-inch minimum thickness for "double wall"
(sheathing under) construction.
(3) All horizontal seams shall be covered by minimum
3/4x3-1/2-inch (nominal) tight-knot cedar or equivalent. There shall
be no visible "z-metal" flashing at butt seams.
(4) Vertical bats, minimum 3/4-inch x 1-1/2-inch
(nominal) size tight-knot cedar or equivalent shall be applied to
the exterior on minimum sixteen (16)-inch centers.
(5) Foundation walls shall not exceed and average
of 18" of exposed concrete on stepped foundations. No exposed
foundation steps shall exceed 24" in height from finish grade
to siding. Exposed concrete shall not exceed a maximum of 12"
from level finished grades to siding. Foundations that exceed the
18" maximum shall be finished in character consistent with
Section 14.9.1(d) of the ACC Guidelines.
(d) MISC. - Metal chimneys, "B-vent" and
plumbing stacks that exceed thirty (30) inches in height measured
from the lowest point of roof penetration or that extend below the
roofline on the exterior sidewall shall be enclosed in an approved
box or "chase." That portion that is left exposed shall
be painted flat black or brown.
(1) All other exposed metal flashing shall be painted
an approved color.
(2) Code-approved spark arrestors MUST be provided
on all chimneys connected to wood burning appliances.
14.6.4 Exterior Lighting: The purpose of exterior lighting
is to make safe movement possible and to enhance aesthetic qualities
of the structure and its surroundings. Though there are many needs for
exterior lighting in our community, obtrusive aspects of lighting can
extend well beyond the boundaries of the area in which the lighting
is installed and intended for use. These obtrusive aspects can be effectively
controlled or eliminated with carefully considered attention to design,
installation and use. General requirements are as follows:
(a)
All existing and proposed exterior lighting shall conform to this
section. Exterior lighting on new construction must be indicated on
submittals to the Committee for approval.
(See Appendix G for some examples of acceptable exterior lighting.)
(b) Exterior accent or safety lighting for residences
and commercial development shall be directed downward.
(c) Excessive mounting heights will be discouraged
and may be prohibited at the discretion of the Committee.
(d) Exterior area lighting for residences and commercial
development shall not be directed toward neighboring structures.
(e) Any exterior flood light or spot light type fixtures
shall be shielded so that the bulb itself is not directly visible
from anywhere other than the owners’ property.
(f) Lights activated by motion detectors shall be
adjusted where possible to minimize inadvertent or constant activation
by normal adjacent activities.
(g) Mercury vapor lights will be approved only where
deemed appropriate, and they require specific approval by the Committee.
(h) The number and brightness of exterior lights
for use around residences shall not be excessive as determined by
the Committee (see subsection i, below).
(i) Exterior lighting found to be objectionable to
neighboring residences or commercial interests may be appealed to
the Committee for review. In the event differences cannot be resolved
between the parties, the Committee shall act as arbitrator, and its
decisions shall be binding.
14.6.5 Storm Water Drainage: Storm water drainage resulting
from roof, parking and driveway areas shall be diverted into an appropriate
drainage system.
(a) For single-family residences, the storm drainage
collected from roofs and driveway areas shall be piped into an on-site
drainage retention/detention system which meets the minimum standards
established by the SVCA engineer or other applicable public agencies
(see appendix D).
(b) Storm water (including system overflows and sump
pumps) shall not be permitted to flow into the sewerage collection
system.
(c) System cleanout sump shall be inspected and cleaned
by the owner periodically to ensure proper functioning.
(d) Those systems found to be faulty or malfunctioning
shall be required to be repaired (at the owner's expense) to a level
of function applicable to standards in effect at the time of original
installation.
(e) Additions to existing homes, new garages, etc.,
may require construction, enlargement and/or other modification of
a storm water retention system to ensure adequate capacity and function.
14.6.6 Accessory Structures: All construction of sheds,
storage areas or other accessory structures requires prior ACC approval.
Accessory structures shall be attached to the proposed or existing residence,
except where attachment is impractical due to topography or other reasons
acceptable to the Committee and must meet minimum setback requirements
(see section 14.5.2).
(a) All accessory structures (garage, storage and
woodsheds, etc.) shall be consistent with the main structure in terms
of architectural character, materials and finishes.
(b) All outside storage areas must be screened from
view of adjacent properties and roads. This includes areas for storage
of trash and recycling containers, under decks where such areas are
used to store any type of materials, or any area on the lot where
materials are being stored.
(c) Except where otherwise specifically approved,
the total area on each lot utilized for such outside storage may not
exceed one hundred (100) square feet in area, nor can it reduce in
area the required minimum fifty (50) percent open space (see section
14.5.1).
14.6.7 Propane Tanks: Installation of propane tanks
requires prior ACC approval.
(a) If intended as fuel for a residence to be constructed,
the plans and specifications shall include location of the propane
tank on the site plan together with details for tank screening.
(b) Propane tanks will not be allowed in front of
the house or on any side of the property facing a street unless they
are buried or a variance is given.
(c) Screening may consist of an appropriate enclosure
and/or deer resistant vegetation. Solid screening is not recommended.
Design and color treatment of the enclosure must have Committee approval.
Deer resistant plant materials utilized as screening must be of a
perennial, evergreen species of sufficient initial height and fullness
to provide complete screening of the tank at the time of final inspection.
(d) Propane tank and screening installations shall
meet all federal, state and county regulations.
14.6.8
Fences: Construction or installation of fences requires prior
ACC approval. The design and concept of Sudden Valley is one that promotes
and emphasizes continuity of open space for the benefit of both human
and wild animal populations. Unquestionably, anyone's fence will be
"shared" by his or her neighbors, even if those neighbors
have only to look at the other side of it. An inconsiderately placed
fence or hedgerow can box a neighbor in, destroy his view or create
(or make worse) any number of other problems in the neighborhood. Applicants
are strongly encouraged to notify their neighbors of proposed fences
prior to applying to the ACC for approval. In addition to being a neighborly
thing to do, this exchange of information may allow for a fence design
that can address multiple concerns within a neighborhood. The need for
privacy, security, pet enclosures, open space, etc. are concerns of
all property owners within Sudden Valley. It is therefore important
to keep in mind that the Committee has a variety of needs and concerns
to consider when processing an application to construct a fence. Each
submittal will be treated on a case by case basis. The decision shall
be based on the following criteria:
- Topography of the lot.
- Lot size and shape.
- Intended use, i.e. privacy, protection, animal enclosure.
- Additional considerations specific to the proposal (positive or
negative impacts to neighboring properties).
- Aesthetics
(a) Design Elements and Placement Requirements: See
Appendix E for examples of fence design.
(1) Existing vegetation may not be removed to accommodate
any hedge or fence without prior approval; and application for such
must be made part of the original request.
(2) No tree shall be used for the attachment or
support of any fence of any kind.
(3) Yard perimeter fences are discouraged.
(4) Fences shall not encroach into setback areas
(see section 14.5.2) without requesting a variance.
(b) Living (vegetative) Fences:
(1)
Where there is a desire for privacy between or among adjacent properties,
living fences or hedges composed of native evergreens, or a combination
of specimen and native plants are encouraged.
(2) Living fences along a property line, whether
planted or cultivated using native vegetation, must be approved
by the ACC. Such hedges may be planted or cultivated only to the
extent that they can be maintained by the applicant property owner
and will not encroach onto the neighboring lot nor grow to excessive
heights (height limits may be imposed to preserve views enjoyed
by adjoining properties).
(c) Non-vegetative Fences:
(1) Solid fencing will be discouraged for most
situations within Sudden Valley.
(2) No non-vegetative residential fence may exceed
five (5) feet in height from ground level. Fences on constructed
or natural berms shall not exceed five (5) feet, including the height
of the berm. Where the lot abuts on a county road, the height limit
may be six (6) feet.
(3) All residential non-vegetative fencing shall
be composed of materials and finishes compatible with the principal
structure(s) or that would blend with the native background. Approval
will depend upon fence style, aesthetic qualities and structural
integrity of each individual proposal and with an emphasis on consistency
within the local neighborhood area.
(4) Vegetative screening may be required to break
up the outline of the fence from adjacent lots and the street.
(5) Chain link may be used for pet enclosures (with
prior ACC approval) provided it is less than six (6) feet in height
and the enclosure is less than one hundred (100) square feet. Vegetative
screening will be required.
(6) Underground electric fences are acceptable
for pet enclosures and do not require prior ACC approval.
(7) Fences to protect individual trees or plants
from animal damage do not require ACC approval. Green, brown or
black wire is encouraged for these fences.
(d) Privacy Screens:
(1) Maximum size of a privacy screen shall be six
(6) feet high by eight (8) feet long.
(2) Solid screens are discouraged.
(e) Submittal Process: Fences, hedges, pet enclosures,
privacy screens, etc. require prior approval from the ACC. Landscape
plans are not to include fencing; separate application must be submitted
for fencing requests. Fence plans are submitted on an individual basis
and their approval/disapproval shall not be based on any previous
approval or pre-existing fence. Application forms are available from
the SVCA administration office. Applications to the Committee should
have the following:
- Name, date, division/lot, street address, mailing address, and
phone number.
- Description (including dimensions) of fence or hedge material
and design.
- Description of intended use of fence or hedge.
- Submittal of a site plan depicting the location on the lot of
the proposed hedge or fence with dimensions of both the fence and
the distance from the fence to property line.
- Additional information you would like the Committee to consider.
Written notice of Committee decisions normally is available within
five (5) working days after the meeting date.
14.7 - COURSE OF CONTRUCTION ACTIVITY:
14.7.1
Hours of Operation: Hours designated for construction and construction-related
activities on platted lots shall be Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m.
to 6 p.m.
(a) Work crews may begin preparation no earlier than
7:30 a.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. Saturdays.
(b) Sunday, holiday and evening work shall be limited
to activities that exclude any and all machinery noise, i.e. chainsaw,
excavators, power tools, etc., unless such tool use cannot be detected
beyond the boundaries of the lot. Staff shall issue warnings and/or
assessments resulting from complaints.
(c) Lawn maintenance equipment may be operated daily,
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
14.7.2
Lot Clearing and Excavation: It is extremely important that
those persons doing the work know in advance what has been agreed upon
between the Committee, contractor and property owner, and that all parties
are informed of any changes that deviate from the original agreement
prior to commencement of excavation.
(a) Approval of final or amended plans by the Committee
shall constitute agreement among the parties as to location of the
structure on the lot, number and location of trees to be removed/retained,
driveway location and other site plan details. Special provisions
or conditions made part of the approval shall be specified in the
initial or subsequent letter of approval to the owner. Staff must
be contacted beforehand if the excavation/tree removal plan is to
be altered in any way.
(b) Land-defacing and excavating shall be kept to
a minimum during and after house construction or addition. Natural
growth shall not be disturbed excessively nor unnecessarily. IMPORTANT
NOTE -- SEE SECTION 14.9.1(b).
(c) Hauling away and/or shredding branch and stump
debris is required.
(d) No outdoor burning is allowed in Sudden Valley
except as provided in SVCA Rule and Regulation 1.6 and its sub-regulations
found in the Sudden Valley Documents.
(e) Piling of dirt from excavation and rough grading
during and after construction shall be done in a manner to avoid damage
to trees and other natural foliage, and all such activities must be
confined to the lot. No dirt shall be piled beneath the dripline of
any tree.
(f) Encroachment by machinery or storage of materials
on adjoining lots constitutes trespassing and shall not be condoned.
Such cases may be subject to Notice of Violation and may be reported
to the adjoining lot owner.
(g) Care must be exercised during the clearing of
trees and construction to avoid damage to vegetation on adjoining
properties. In some cases the ACC may require that the trees be removed
in sections to avoid such damage. Broken branches must be properly
sawn back to the trunk or main branch.
14.7.3 Erosion Control: [CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
ITEM] An approved and effective silt screening device must be placed
in or along any stream, lake, pond, trench, ditch or intermittent channel
that drains to a flowing water course.
(a) Such devices shall be composed of materials specifically
designed for use in silt retention and shall be properly installed
and maintained during construction (see appendix F).
(b) Hay bales may be required as primary filters
in addition to or in place of silt fences.
(c) Bales or silt fences shall be in place prior
to release of waters from the trench or before excavation commences.
(d) Shredded mulch or hay shall be used to cover
areas of exposed soil.
14.7.4 Inspections: There are several required inspections
by SVCA staff during the construction period. Following 24-hour advance
notice by the property owner or his/her designee, Sudden Valley staff
will perform on-site inspections prior to the following stages of construction:
(a) SETBACKS AND FLOOR ELEVATIONS - Location of the
building on the site and the floor elevations as approved by the ACC
will be confirmed by an inspection when forms have been set but prior
to the pouring of concrete foundation footings. Lot boundaries must
be clearly marked to allow determination of approved setbacks. Garage
and house floor elevations will be evaluated per ACC approved plans.
Changes require staff or ACC review.
(b) STORMWATER SYSTEM - Design, location and size
of the system will be confirmed by inspection after being excavated
but prior to filling, covering or enclosing. Systems may be water-tested
during final inspection. Consult the ACC office for details of the
storm water system inspection process (see appendix D).
(c) DRIVEWAY – Driveway configuration will
be confirmed by an inspection when forms have been set but prior to
pouring the driveway. Refer to driveway design standards section and
illustration for more details (see section 14.5.5).
(d) FINAL - Inspection for release from Committee
jurisdiction will be at the owner or developer's request prior to
occupancy of the structure and no later than nine (9) months from
date of start of construction, unless an extension has been granted.
Extensions or variances from this provision must be requested in writing
and approved by the ACC. Occupancy prior to final inspection will
result in loss of all or part of the construction completion deposit
(see section 14.7.6).
14.7.5 Re-Inspections: Staff will re-inspect work associated
with necessary or recommended changes following initial inspection.
Costs for repetition of review, missed appointments or subsequent inspections
due to actions of the applicant for foreseeable problems may be reasonably
charged to the property owner at a rate of $35 per hour, including travel
time to and from the site (rate subject to change in the future).
14.7.6 Completion of Construction/Time Limits: The
construction of any single-family detached residence or addition on
any platted property in Sudden Valley, the plans for which are approved
by the ACC, must begin within ninety (90) days after approval, and the
exterior (including exterior finish and minimum landscaping) must be
completed no later than nine (9) months after the start date of construction.
(a) Failure to commence construction of any single-family
residence within ninety(90) days after ACC approval will require that
the plan be re-approved by the ACC.
(b) Consistent progress must be made throughout the
construction project. The ACC shall specify to the property owner
what constitutes a violation under this section and shall issue a
Notice of Violation or Non-Compliance which may result in penalties
and/or increased construction deposit requirements.
(c) Failure to complete construction by the nine
(9) month deadline can result in penalties up to $25/day, 6 days a
week (see section 14.8.9).
14.8
- CONSTRUCTION SUBMITTALS:
14.8.1
Process of Approval for Construction of an Addition or a Detached Single-Family
Residence:
All construction projects undertaken in Sudden Valley are subject to
Whatcom County, state and any other applicable permitting requirements.
The ACC recommends that property owners contact Whatcom County for information
or requirements for their specific project. For all new single-family
homes, permit applications may be made with the Association and Whatcom
County concurrently; however, ACC approval and verification of a County
Building Permit are required prior to construction.
14.8.2 Construction Application: The following items
must be submitted and/or completed at time of application:
- SVCA Construction Application and Checklist (must be signed
by property owner).
- Two sets of construction plans.
- Two copies of existing conditions site plan (see 14.8.7 (a)).
- Two copies of proposed construction and landscaping site plan see
14.8.7 (b)).
- Two copies of cross section elevations drawings see 14.8.7 (c)).
- One copy of specification sheet with paint chips, roof color, siding
material and retaining wall materials.
- One copy of the water and sewer availability certificate.
- Copy of licensed survey (see section 14.8.10).
- Written application for variance (see section 14.8.12).
- Application fee (see section 14.8.8).
- Property and building corners must be staked for review.
- Trees to be removed must be flagged (see section 14.10.3c).
- Refundable completion deposit (see section 14.8.9).
14.8.3 Preliminary Review: To help property owners
and potential property owners in Sudden Valley avoid unnecessary expenses,
the ACC will consider partial submittals for unusual or questionable
projects (see section 14.8.12). These submittals would be for approval
“in concept only” and a complete submittal would be required
prior to final approval being granted.
14.8.4 Submittal Deadline and Completeness: Plans submitted
to the Committee for consideration must be complete as to the content
specified below and must be received at least ten (10) working days
(excluding holidays) prior to the scheduled meeting of the Committee
at which the request is to be considered. Complete submittal can be
dropped off at the SVCA administration office or sent to:
SVCA
4 Clubhouse Circle
Bellingham, WA 98229
Attn: ACC
14.8.5 Other Submittal Requirements: Any individual
or company making application for new construction, repair or substantial
remodeling within Sudden Valley shall provide to the ACC:
(a) A current and valid State of Washington General
Contractor's license, unless owner-built for owner use in accordance
with exceptions to state licensing requirements (see section 13).
(b) Certificate of Insurance evidencing general liability
coverage of at least five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000).
14.8.6 ACC Compliance Review and Disposition: Whatcom
County and SVCA permits are required for all construction activity in
Sudden Valley. Both County and Sudden Valley approved plan sets and
permits must be consulted during construction to ensure compliance to
all regulations and permit conditions. Failure to obtain SVCA authorization
to proceed prior to commencement of construction will result in issuance
of a Stop Work Order and Notice of Violation to the owner. The Committee
shall approve or disapprove accepted plans, specifications and details
within thirty (30) days from receipt thereof or shall notify the person
submitting them when an additional period of time, not to exceed an
additional thirty (30) days, is required for such approval or disapproval.
Plans, specifications and details with written Committee approval or
disapproval, shall be returned to the person submitting them. At least
one (1) copy shall be retained by the Committee for its files.
14.8.7 Quality and Content of Submittals: The Committee
requires a series of plans and forms to determine if the building project
meets all of the Sudden Valley Covenants and Guidelines. All of these
plans and forms must be submitted in the detail required for the building
application to be considered. Building documents submitted to the Committee
for approval shall be accurate, near as possible to "professional
quality" and shall include:
(a) Existing Conditions Site Plan using 1/10th inch
= 1 foot or larger scale depicting:
- The SVCA division, lot and street address;
- Property boundaries including the road right-of way;
- Location of the proposed structure on the lot showing roof line
(solid) and wall lines (dashed);
- Proposed setbacks from the property boundaries to eaves;
- Proposed location of walks, decks, patios, and driveway;
- Accurate location of all trees (six inch diameter or larger) on
lot indicating species and size.
- Trees that the developer proposes to remove should be so designated;
- Rock outcroppings or other major geological features;
- Abutting wall line of existing homes on adjacent lots;
- Location of water courses, natural drainage areas and standing water;
- Existing lot contour lines shown at two foot vertical intervals;
(b) Proposed Construction and Landscaping
Site Plan: using 1/10th inch = 1 foot or larger scale depicting:
- The SVCA division, lot and street address;
- Property boundaries including the road right-of way;
- Location of the proposed structure on the lot showing roof line
(solid) and wall lines (dashed);
- Proposed setbacks from the property boundaries to eaves;
- Proposed finish grade at each wall (expressed as ft. in elevation,
consistent with topography);
- Proposed elevation of garage floor (expressed as ft. in elevation,
consistent with topography);
- Proposed finished grade contour lines shown at two foot vertical
intervals
- Proposed location and composition of walks, decks, patios and driveway;
- Location and details of proposed retaining structures;
- Location of all proposed outdoor lighting;
- Proposed location of utilities;
- Proposed location of accessory structures;
- Proposed location and screening details for propane tanks and trash
receptacles;
- Proposed location of storm water retention system, main sump and
clean-out (see sec. 14.6.5);
- Locations of water courses and natural drainage areas;
- Proposed placement and description of plant materials, rock, fencing,
etc. (see section 14.9);
- Proposed landscaping changes within the road right of-ways shall
be included in the plan.
(c) Cross Section Elevations Drawings using 1/10th
inch = 1 foot or larger scale depicting:
- Scaled cross section drawings of the lot and road right-of-way depicting
the slope;
- Proposed structure location on the lot, two cross sections may be
required on complex slopes;
- Scaled cross section drawings of driveway from the road to the garage
with degree of slope indicated;
- Scaled cross section elevations of proposed retaining structures;
(d) Typical Exterior Building Sections using 1/4th
inch = 1 foot or larger scale depicting:
- All sides of the structure sufficient in detail to show accurate
depiction of construction and materials.
- Proposed finish grade at each wall (expressed as feet in elevation).
(e) Floor Plans for all interior living space using
¼ inch = 1 foot scale.
(f) Roofing Layout Plan using ¼ inch = 1 foot
scale.
(g) Variance Request as may be applicable, in writing.
(h) SVCA Application and Checklist Forms completed
with signed statement that documents and site preparation are sufficient
to allow adequate review by the Committee.
14.8.8 Submittal Fees: A fee based on the total square
footage of both finished and unfinished living space shall accompany
the submittal of plans for new single-family detached structures and
additions. Except as stated below, no additional fee shall be required
for re-submittal of plans revised in accordance with Committee requirements
or recommendations. Any approval for which an extension beyond the 90-day
start of construction deadline has been properly obtained, the work
on which has not been commenced within one year from the original approval
date, shall be considered void. Such plans shall require complete re-application
along with the appropriate fees.
Living
Space Square Footage FEE
1,400-1,999 $500
2,000-2,499 $525
2,500-2,999 $550
3,000-3.999 $650
4,000-UP $750
Additions
less than 400 sq. ft. $150
Additions greater than 400 sq. ft. $250
Refundable
new construction Completion Deposit: (see section 14.8.9).
Refundable remodel/addition Completion Deposit: Variable deposit based
on scope and complexity of project (see section 14.8.9).
Fees
paid for plans permanently withdrawn prior to Committee action are refundable
up to eighty percent (80%). If prepaid, completion deposit will be totally
refunded.
14.8.9 Completion Deposit: A completion deposit is
required for construction projects in an amount to be set by the SVCA
Board but not less than $1500 (cash or cash equivalent) or $5000 (completion
bond). Deposit is payable by the property owner upon plan approval prior
to start of construction. In the event the property owner timely completes
the improvements and/or landscaping as evidenced by Sudden Valley final
inspection and the property owner has complied with all applicable requirements
and procedures, the SVCA, upon written request from the property owner,
shall promptly return the completion bond or cash deposit and release
the project(s) from Committee jurisdiction.
(a) The cash deposit or bond shall be for the purpose
of ensuring that all improvements, including landscaping, are constructed
and completed in accordance with the requirements and procedures set
forth in the Architectural Control Guidelines.
(b) Deposit may be increased for individuals, either
owner or contractor, who have exhibited a record of flagrant and/or
consistent rules violation.
(c) Non-compliance within the ACC approved time limit,
non-approved changes, un-repaired damage to Sudden Valley property,
occupancy without final inspection or failure to pay any outstanding
fines related to the project may result in the total or partial forfeiture
of the deposit.
(d) At the discretion of the SVCA Board, amounts
forfeited under the completion deposit provision may be used to rectify
problems on the site to the extent allowed by law, but shall not be
considered liquidated damages.
14.8.10 Survey Requirements: The Committee will require
that the site plan as submitted reflects the results of an accurate
survey. Therefore, prior to plan submittal, it shall be the responsibility
of the developer or his/her designee, to have a licensed surveyor accurately
locate the property corners, determine square footage of the lot, map
contour lines for the lot at two foot vertical intervals and accurately
locate all trees (six inch diameter or larger) on the lot indicating
species and size.
(a) Staff shall determine the adequacy of survey information
during the pre-meeting site review. Survey stakes shall not be disturbed
unnecessarily during construction.
(b) Stakes that are buried or otherwise obliterated
shall be reestablished at the owner's expense by a licensed surveyor
upon completion of the home and prior to final inspection.
14.8.11 Pre-Meeting Site Preparation: For staff inspection
prior to the Committee meeting at which the project is to be considered,
corners of the proposed structure shall be staked, house corners in
red, decks in blue. Trees designated for removal shall be marked on
site using red or yellow surveyors tape and shall be consistent with
those noted on the site plan submitted. Such preparation must be completed
at time of submittal.
14.8.12 Variances: It is realized that, with the passage
of time, these guidelines may change in keeping with updated building
materials technology, methods of construction and style or architectural
concepts.
(a) The Committee may allow reasonable variances
and adjustments of these restrictions in order to overcome practical
difficulties and to prevent unnecessary hardships in the application
of the provisions contained herein; provided that such is done in
conformity with the intent and purposes hereof and that in every instance
such variances or adjustments will not be materially detrimental nor
injurious to other properties or improvements in the neighborhood,
the unit or subdivision (see section 14.8.3).
(b) Requests for a variance must be made in writing
to the ACC.
14.9
- LANDSCAPING: Any landscaping that significantly alters the
appearance of a property requires prior ACC approval. Because well designed
and maintained landscaping increases both individual and community property
values, the Committee requires certain minimum landscaping standards for
all developed property in Sudden Valley. These guidelines attempt to integrate
the aesthetics of the site with the natural environment, protect native
features and provide for adequate soil stability. The SVCA shall specify
to the resident what constitutes a violation under this section and shall
issue a Notice of Violation or Non-Compliance in accordance with the Covenants,
Rules and Regulations and these Guidelines.
14.9.1 Landscape Guidelines:
(a) Existing native vegetation shall be utilized
to the greatest extent possible when formulating the landscape plan
(provided it is healthy and suitable for the site). Therefore, buildings,
driveways and parking areas shall be planned or arranged to provide
for the minimum removal of such vegetation both on the lot and in
the road right-of-ways.
(b) Preserved trees on the lot and in the road right-of-ways
shall be protected from damaging construction activities by placement
of no-entry barriers around the tree at the dripline. Such damage
can result from a variety of activities, both physical and environmental.
Owners may be assessed for unauthorized tree limbing/removal when
trees are damaged or destroyed by such activities and where there
is sufficient evidence of negligence in protecting such trees (see
section 14.10).
(c) All cuts and fill slopes on developed lots greater
than 2:1 (horizontal:vertical) in slope that are judged by staff or
the ACC to be unstable, whether they are pre-existing, created by
driveway cuts or other general lot excavation, must be corrected by
the construction of retaining walls or grading plans meeting the approval
of the Committee. Cuts and fill slopes of less than 2:1 (H:V) shall,
at the minimum, require planting with suitable plant material or employment
of other methods to maintain soils in place and such erosion prevention
measures shall be employed throughout construction (see section 14.7.2).
(d) Retaining walls shall be composed of materials
that are consistent or harmonious with other site elements and the
residence. Cinderblock walls and plain concrete walls (non-exposed
aggregate type) will not be approved without the inclusion of wood
screening or vegetation. Other structures shall be built using materials
that are rated, graded or stamped for use in contact with the ground.
(e) All construction and landscaping debris, slash,
removed stumps, brush and trees must be removed from the lot. That
which is usable (i.e. firewood) shall be neatly stacked and stored.
(f) All disturbed soils must be graded, smoothed
and compacted where necessary to prevent erosion. Bare earth must
be seeded, covered with mulch or planted with trees or ground covering
plants in order to counteract erosion and provide for aesthetics.
(g) To enhance groundwater infiltration, plastic
under landscaped surfaces is prohibited. Only porous landscape fabrics
or specialized matting materials may be utilized.
(h) On sites where the majority of mature native trees require removal
for even minimum construction, such trees may be required to be replaced
by a tree(s) at a suitable location upon the lot, and the replacement
of such trees may be required by the Committee as a condition of approval
for the home submittal.
(i) Treated timbers or other suitable edging shall
be placed along crushed rock driveways to define access and parking
areas and to contain and minimize the scattering of rock. Timbers
treated with creosote are not permitted.
(j) Any proposed landscaping in the road right of
ways shall be done at the abutting property owners’ risk and
if approved by the Committee, shall be maintained by the abutting
property owner. Road right of ways remain SVCA property and use of
such right of ways shall remain available for any SVCA member. Improvements
may be removed without notice by SVCA for access to utilities, etc.
In addition SVCA may require an encroachment agreement.
14.9.2 Landscape Plan Submittal: Any proposed landscaping
that requires tree removal, significant removal of native vegetation,
re-shaping or grading of soil, retaining walls, etc. requires prior
ACC approval. Landscape plans are considered on an individual basis
and their approval/disapproval shall not be based on any previous approval
or pre-existing landscape plan. Submittal should include the following
information:
(a) Application with name, date, division/lot, street address, mailing
address, phone number.
(b) Submittal of a site plan including:
- Location of all structures, driveway, trees, etc.
- Trees proposed for removal clearly identified (see Section 14.10).
- Location and dimensions of retaining walls.
- Proposed landscaped areas clearly marked.
- Proposed changes within road right-of-ways.
(c) Narrative describing landscape proposal including tree, vegetation
and material descriptions, drainage concerns and any additional considerations
you would like the Committee to consider.
14.10 - TREE REMOVAL AND LIMBING: Other than routine
maintenance of lawns and specimen plants, no trees, shrubs, bushes nor
other native growth shall be cut or removed from any property without
the written approval of the Committee or their designee and all plans
for such removal shall be submitted in writing to the Committee (see section
14.10.3).
14.10.1 Tree Removal and Limbing Policies:
(a) Protection and preservation of property values
may be accomplished by appropriate control of growth of trees, shrubs
and naturally occurring vegetation; however, such actions shall be
weighed against preservation of wildlife, protection of soil stability,
water quality and related aspects of drainage, and adherence to the
overall concept of Sudden Valley, which includes protection of the
natural beauty of the area.
(b) Authorization from the ACC Officer must be received
prior to the mechanical clearing of any property in Sudden Valley
(see section 14.7.2).
(c) The ACC shall have the authority to approve or
disapprove tree removal/limbing requests on commercial and condominium
tracts and platted lots. The SVCA Board shall, upon recommendation
from the ACC, make final determinations on common areas (parks, nature
trails, the recreation corridor, the marina, permanently restricted
Sudden Valley Owned lots and the golf course). SVCA staff shall make
determinations for trees on the right-of-ways.
(d) Topping of mature evergreen trees is recognized
by the National Arborists Association as injurious to the health of
the tree. SVCA will therefore require identification of alternative
remedies and shall consider topping of trees as the least acceptable
of such alternatives.
(e) To allow neighbors notice whenever tree removals
or limbing might affect them directly, trees to be limbed or removed
must be ribboned at least one week in advance of the meeting (except
in cases of hazard trees).
(f) If the tree removal or limbing contemplated is
to occur on a lot not belonging to the applicant, written consent
of the owner(s) is required. Except in cases where action was taken
to mitigate a hazard, removal of debris will be the responsibility
of the applicant requesting the limbing/removal.
(g) The ACC may require replacement with an acceptable
tree or trees as a condition of approval of tree limbing/removal.
(h) Care must be exercised during clearing of trees
to avoid damage to surrounding vegetation. In some cases the ACC may
require that the trees be removed in sections to avoid such damage.
Broken branches on adjoining trees must be properly sawn back to the
trunk or main branch.
(i) A tree request denied by the ACC may be reconsidered
if the tree and/or surrounding conditions have significantly changed
or the applicant provides the Committee with a written report from
a certified Arborist.
(j) It is extremely important that those persons
doing the work know in advance what has been agreed upon between the
Committee, contractor and property owner, and that all parties are
informed of any changes that deviate from the original request and/or
agreement prior to commencement of any tree removal.
14.10.2 Tree Removal and Limbing Criteria: In addition
to the policies outlined in section 14.10.1 many additional criteria
are used in evaluating requests for tree removals or limbing. These
include, among others:
(a) Immediate safety concerns including trunk and/or
branch failure potential.
(b) Fire prevention such as trees overhanging roofs
or near chimneys.
(c) Future safety concerns such as retaining a solitary
tree in a cleared area (orphan) or retaining a leaning or oddly shaped
tree on the edge of a cleared area or next to a roadway.
(d) Encroachments where trunk, branches or roots
would be or are in contact with main or accessory structure(s) or
where utilities would unavoidably cut through root system.
(e) Health of the tree and/or those adjacent where
there are obvious signs of infestation, incurable disease or stress
that likely would lead to early or premature death or trunk/root failure.
(f) Maintenance of property values where vegetation
has been allowed to grow unchecked and now poses aesthetic concerns
for neighbors.
(g) Creation or maintenance of view corridors where
new vegetation has grown unchecked and now obstructs views once enjoyed
by the lot owner or neighboring lot owners.
(h) Consideration of privacy concerns where a request
is made to remove or limb a tree that might substantially reduce existing
and highly valued screening between neighboring properties.
(i) Prevailing wind direction.
(j) Specific characteristics of different tree species.
14.10.3 Tree Removal and Limbing Submittal: All proposed
tree removal or limbing requires prior ACC approval. Proposed tree removal
and limbing requests are considered on an individual basis and their
approval/disapproval shall not be based on any previous approval. Application
forms are available from the SVCA administration office. Applications
will be considered by the Committee subject to the following:
(a) Application to include name, date, division/lot,
street address, mailing address, phone number.
(b) Submittal of a site plan depicting the following:
- Location of all existing structures, driveway, trees, etc.
- Trees proposed for removal clearly identified on the site plan.
(c) Trees proposed for removal are flagged on property
(IMPORTANT: Do not use paint!) [see section 14.10.1(e)].
(d) Narrative describing request, reasons for the
removal or limbing and any additional considerations you would like
the Committee to consider.
Written notice of Committee decisions normally is available within
five (5) working days after the meeting date.
14.11
- PROPERTY MAINTENANCE: The SVCA shall specify to the resident
what constitutes a violation under this section and shall issue a Notice
of Violation or Non-Compliance in accordance with the Covenants, Rules
and Regulations and these Guidelines.
14.11.1
Developed Property: All developed property, whether occupied
or unoccupied, and all improvements (buildings, accessory structures,
fences, etc.) and landscaping shall at all times be maintained in such
a manner as to prevent their becoming unsightly due, but not limited
to: deteriorating exterior materials and finish(es) (siding, roofing,
decks, paint, etc.), unchecked growth of common or invasive weeds, accumulation
of rubbish or improper outside storage.
14.11.2 Tree and Brush Maintenance: All property owners
shall be responsible for the removal and clean up of dead or hazardous
trees, limbs and dead brush on their property (see section 14.10). Spread
of fire, especially on undeveloped lots, is a significant danger.
14.11.3 Storm Water Control: Gutters, downspouts and
the storm water retention system shall be maintained so as to function
correctly. The storm water retention system clean out should be emptied
of debris at least annually (see section 14.6.5).
14.11.4 Street Address: The street address shall be
kept clearly visible for all developed property within Sudden Valley
(see section 15.2).
14.11.5 Exterior Storage: All outside storage areas
must be screened from view of adjacent properties and roads. This includes
areas for storage of trash and recycling containers, under decks where
such areas are used to store any type of materials, or any area on the
lot where materials are being stored.
14.11.6 Replacement of Damaged Structures: No improvement
which has been partially or totally destroyed by fire, earthquake or
other means shall be allowed to remain in such state beyond the minimum
time period necessary to secure inspections and permits allowing removal
of the debris or to begin repair of the structure. In no event shall
this period exceed four (4) months from the date of such destruction
or loss unless it can be shown that such delay is beyond the control
of the owner. If a damaged structure is to be rebuilt or replaced, all
requirements for approval of plans by the Committee, time limits for
completion and other rules as specified elsewhere in these Guidelines
shall apply.
14.12
- DEFINITIONS: The following definitions shall apply for reference
in Sudden Valley guidelines, rules and regulations:
14.12.1
Accessory Use or Structure: A use or structure on the same lot
with, and of a nature customarily incidental and subordinate to, the
principle use or structure.
14.12.2 A-Frame: A structure whose roof members
bear on the ground and carry most or all of the structure's vertical
loads to the footings OR whose shape resembles a capital A.
14.12.3 Attached: A structure having all or
part of one or more walls common to the dwelling, or a method of attachment
approved by the Committee.
14.12.4 Back Fill: To place earth or selected
material in any excavated void.
14.12.5 Buffer Area: An undisturbed, vegetated
zone that separates manmade structures or activities from natural areas
with functional value, usually creeks and wetlands.
14.12.6 Building Area: The total ground area
occupied by each building and accessory buildings but not including
uncovered entrance platforms, terraces, steps and decks.
14.12.7 Building Site: The area surrounding
the exterior of any structure extending a distance of ten (10) feet
from such structure, except when the structure is less than ten (10)
feet from the lot line, in which event the lot line shall define the
edge of the building site.
14.12.8 Detached: A structure not having all
or part of one or more walls common to the dwelling or to a covered
porch attached to the dwelling. A structure that is surrounded by open
space.
14.12.9 Easement: A vested or acquired right
to use land other than as a tenant, for specific purpose, such right
being held by someone other than the owner who holds title to the land.
14.12.10 Established Datum Point (elevation):
Point of vertical elevation expressed in feet, which is used to calculate
building height, driveway grade and floor elevations. Information provided
can be actual (e.g. feet above mean sea level) or relative to a fixed
point, conventionally shown as 100 feet (such that downgrade points
are not negative numbers).
14.12.11 Finished Grade: The lowest point of
the finished surface of the ground, paving or sidewalk within the area
between the wall of the building and property line or, when the property
line is more than five (5) feet from the wall of the building, between
the wall of the building and a line five (5) feet out from the wall
of the building.
14.12.12 Floor Area: The total area of all stories
or floors finished as living accommodations.
14.12.13 Height, Building - Either: (see appendix
B)
(a) The vertical distance from the finished grade (see definition)
to the highest point of the coping of a flat roof or the peak of the
highest gable of the pitch or hip roof; or
(b) The vertical distance measured from the highest point on the building
site (see definition) to the highest point of the coping of a flat
roof or the peak of the highest gable of a pitch or hip roof.
14.12.14 Improved Lot: A platted lot on which
presently exists a detached single-family home or upon which construction
of such a detached single-family home has commenced (see section 14.12.24).
14.12.15 Interior Living Space: The total area
of all finished rooms within a structure (measured according to typical
building trade conventions).
14.12.16 Lot Line: A boundary line of a lot
or parcel.
(a) Front: The property line separating any interior
lot from a street right-of-way. In case of a corner or through lot,
the owner may elect any lot line abutting on a street as the front
lot line, provided such choice in the opinion of the Committee, will
not be detrimental to existing or future development of adjacent properties.
(b) Rear: All lot lines that do not qualify as either
front or side lot lines.
(c) Side: The two (2) lot lines marking the side
limits of the lot and that intersect the front and rear lot lines.
The side lot line may intersect the front lot line at any angle and
may be of any length.
14.12.17 Lots
(a) Corner Lot: A lot that abuts on two (2) or more
intersecting streets.
(b) Interior Lot: A lot that fronts on one (1) street.
(c) Through Lot: A lot, other than a corner lot,
that abuts on more than one (1) street.
14.12.18 Maintenance and Repair: General upkeep,
necessary removal, replacement or repair of any existing structural
component, surface finish, non-native landscape element, etc., by methods
considered conventional in the terms of the trade. Replacement with
the same or nearly identical materials, colors and textures.
14.12.19 Manufactured Home: A structure built
off-site that has a welded steel underframe and is transported wholly
or in sections to the site on its own axles or by trailer.
14.12.20 Open Space: Unoccupied land that is
open to the sky and that may include certain landscaping structures,
i.e. retaining walls, planters, etc.
14.12.21 Parking Space: An area measuring ten
(10) feet by twenty (20) feet, exclusive of all area used for maneuvering,
which is used exclusively for motor vehicle parking.
14.12.22 Start Date of Construction: The date
on which vegetation, trees, ground cover, etc., are removed and/or excavation
is commenced for construction of or addition to a commercial building,
single-family home or condominium, or a structure accessory thereto.
14.12.23 Topography: The increase or decrease
in elevation above or below the Established Datum Point expressed by
lines of contour on a site plan. Slope is depicted by contour interval
lines at each point where grade changes up or down by two (2) vertical
feet of elevation.
14.12.24 Variance: A modification of the terms
of these regulations that may be granted because of the unusual shape,
excessive slope or other extraordinary situations or conditions in connection
with a specific piece of property when the literal enforcement of these
requirements would involve practical difficulties and cause undue hardships
unnecessary to carry out the spirit and intent of these requirements.
15.
ACC GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS ON PLATTED LOTS:
15.1
- GENERAL: One permanent identification sign shall be permitted
on each lot, not more than one (1) square foot in size, stained a natural
color with wooden or metal letters or numbers that may depict the name
of the owner and the street address. Signs may NOT be attached to trees.
15.2
- ADDRESS: All homes shall have a street address number posted
on the structure or adjacent to the access, and such street address number
must be visible from the main street.
15.3 - FOR SALE AND FOR RENT SIGNS: Sudden Valley owners
wishing to display their lots for sale or for rent may do so provided
that only one such sign as described below (see section 15.3.1) may be
posted on each lot. No other information materials shall be placed outside
the residence other than that which can be contained within an approximate
9-by-12-inch plastic box equivalent to the IDC Inc. "Info Center."
Signs may NOT be attached to trees.
15.3.1 -- Signs may be purchased from the SVCA Administration
Office that display the Sudden Valley logo, list the Division and Lot
number, the name of the property owner or contact person (if desired),
and a telephone number. These signs may be posted no closer than five
(5) feet from the edge of the asphalt of an adjoining SVCA road.
15.3.2 -- Owners of multiple lots for sale may contract
for the manufacture of such signs, rather than ordering them from the
SVCA, provided such signs are made of wood and are accurate facsimiles
in terms of size, coloring, logo and lettering. Owners or agents may
re-use signs by changing the information, provided that the lettering
is consistent in style, color and size with those produced by SVCA.
15.4 - OPEN HOUSE SIGNS: Portable open house signs may
be placed that direct people to a particular home for sale. Only one such
sign for each open house shall be permitted at any one street intersection.
The owner(s) or qualified sales agent must be present at the open house
during any period when such signs are in place.
15.5 - CONSTRUCTION SIGNS: During construction or landscaping,
a sign not to exceed four (4) square feet in size may be placed on the
property where the work is being done. The sign shall contain the name,
address and telephone number of the contractor and shall be of a style
and character that does not diminish the aesthetics of the surrounding
area as determined by the Committee. The sign must be removed from the
site within ten (10) days following completion of the work and/or final
inspection of the structure by ACC staff. The property owner may be subject
to fines for failure to remove any sign following the ten (10)-day period.
15.6 - OTHER SIGNS: Permission must be obtained from
SVCA Security prior to posting any type of temporary flyer, including
garage sale or directional signs. Where specifically permitted, such signs
may not be affixed to trees or to traffic signs and may not be posted
prior to the day of the sale or event, and must be removed promptly (the
same day) after the sale or event concludes.
16. ENFORCEMENT:
16.1
- GENERAL: Management and staff designated by management of SVCA
shall enforce the provisions of the Articles of Incorporation, Covenants,
By-laws and Rules and Regulations of SVCA. A staff member shall be empowered
to issue written warnings and Notices of Violation to SVCA members, their
family, guests, tenants, invitees and agents.
16.2 - APPEALS: The issuance of a Notice of Violation,
fine or any other provision of the notice may be appealed to the SVCA
Board of Directors for redress per the following guidelines:
16.2.1 A written request for appeal must be received
by SVCA within thirty (30) calendar days following the date of the Notice
of Violation. Notice of SVCA's receipt of such appeal request shall
be mailed to the appellant along with information regarding the Appeals
Committee schedule. SVCA shall allow twenty (20) days notice to the
appellant prior to the scheduled hearing.
16.2.2 An Appeals Committee of the Board will convene
monthly before the regular Board meeting in order to hear appeals. The
appellant may attend and offer verbal testimony, written explanation
and any other pertinent evidence for consideration. The decision of
the Committee will be mailed or otherwise made known to the appellant
within thirty (30) calendar days following the hearing.
16.2.3 The Appeals Committee rulings may be overturned
or modified only by resolution of the SVCA Board of Directors.
16.3 - COURT RELIEF: The rights and privileges of any
person to resort to State or Federal courts for relief from the appeals
decision shall not be abridged by any provisions of the SVCA Articles
of Incorporation, Covenants, By-laws or the Rules and Regulations.
16.3.1 All proceedings under these Rules and Regulations
are administrative and in accord with protection of property rights
of SVCA members and shall not be considered res judicata if the matter
is later tried in a State or Federal court.
16.3.2 Invalidation of any one of these Rules or Regulations
by judgment or court order shall in no way affect any of the other Rules
or Regulations, which shall remain in full force and effect.
17.
Schedule of Fines for Notices of Violation
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17.1 Traffic and Vehicles:
17.1.1 A $40.00 fine shall be assessed for the first time violation
of the following:
(a) Improper turn.
(b) Parking in a restricted zone.
(c) No flag/excess length or width.
(d) Failure to obey stop sign.
(e) Improper passing.
(f) Failure to yield right of way.
(g) Failure to yield to pedestrians.
(h) Driving without proper lights.
(i) Improper backing.
(j) Failure to signal for a turn.
(k) Obstructing traffic.
(l) Wrong way on one-way street.
(m) Loose truckloads.
(n) Driving to the left of center.
(o) Failure to yield to lights and/or siren.
17.1.2
A $100.00 fine shall be assessed for the following:
(a) Overloaded truck.
(b) Endangering life or safety of work crews.
(c) Track Vehicle on Roadway 14.5.5 ACC Guidelines–
$100 fine PLUS the cost of repairing the roadway.
17.1.3
Fines for speeding:
(a) 1 to 10 mph over posted limit, first offense:
$40.00
(b) 11 to 15 mph over posted limit, first offense:
$75.00
(c) 16 to 25 mph over posted limit, first offense:
$125.00
(d) 26 mph and over posted limit, first offense:
$200.00
(e) Failure to stop for lights and/or siren. Applicable
fines plus $200.00.
(f) Speeding near a school bus stop when children
are present: Double speeding fine.
(g) Reckless driving. $200.00
(h) Driving too fast for conditions. $40.00.
17.1.4
Repeat offenses of Sect. 17.1.1 through 17.1.3
(a) Second violation: Two (2) times initial fine.
(b) Third violation: Three (3) times initial fine,
possible loss of Sudden Valley driving privilege.
17.1.5
Miscellaneous Violations: Trespassing on the Golf Course, Marina
Moorage Area, and other off limits areas: - Fines per Section 17.11.
17.1.6
Improper storage of recreational vehicles:
Fines per section 17.11.
17.2.
Vandalism
17.2.1 Fines for vandalism to Sudden Valley property:
(a) Up to $500.00 for the first offense, plus reimbursement
of costs for repairing damaged property, possible criminal prosecution.
(b) Up to $2,000.00 for the second or any subsequent offense, plus
reimbursement of costs of repairing damaged property, possible criminal
prosecution.
17.2.2
Violation of open burning regulation:
(A) Commercial or Contractor.
(1) Land clearing
(a)
First violation: $250.00 **
(b) Second violation: $1,000.00 **
(B)
Residential
(1) Burning other than approved recreational fire
(a) First violation: $100.00 **
(b) Second violation: $200.00 **
(c) Third violation: $1,000.00 **
**
Plus referral to NWAPA and County Fire Marshal.
17.3
Firearms Violations:
17 3.1. Any use or display of firearms within Sudden Valley
intended to threaten or intimidate a resident, guest, worker or other
person who is lawfully on any property shall immediately be reported
to the Sheriff’s Office for action.
17.3.2 Improper use of firearms (see 1.3.1 for definition):
(a) Up to $1,000.00 for the first offense.
(b) Subsequent violations will be referred to the
Sheriff.
17.4
Pet Regulations (Section 6)
17.4.1 Fines for violation of pet regulations (per animal):
(a) First violation: written warning or $50.00 fine
(b) Second violation: $75.00
(c) Third violation: $100.00
(d) Subsequent violations: $200.00
(e) Fail to pick up after pet: $40.00
17.5
Boat Launching
17.5.1 Launching a trailered boat anywhere in Sudden Valley
outside of approved lalunch facility. $100.00
17.5.2 Launching a boat anywhere in Sudden Valley without having
paid the required Use Fee. $100.00
17.6
ACC Violation (Section 14 et al).
17.6.1
Cutting/limbing trees on owner’s property without prior ACC approval:
A fine not to exceed $2,000 per tree.
17.6.2 Cutting/limbing trees on another owner’s property
without prior ACC AND the owner’s approval: A fine not
to exceed $5,000 per tree.
17.6.3 Cutting/limbing trees after a request for such has been
denied by the ACC: A fine not to exceed $7,500 per tree.
17.6.4 Following disposition of a Notice of Violation for unauthorized
limbing/tree removal, further violations by the property owner
or his/her agent shall be subject to double the fine amounts as listed
above.
17.6.5 Damage to unapproved trees during approved construction
project: Up to $500 and possible replanting of additional conifers.
17.7
Stop Work Orders (ACC)
17.7.1
Disregard ACC Stop Work Order: Up to $100.00 per day.
17.7.2
Failure to notify SVCA for required ACC inspections:
(a) First Violation of this section: $100.00
(b) Subsequent violations of this section: $200.00
(c) Occupancy prior to final inspection: $100.00,
plus possible forfeiture of completion deposit (new construction only).
(d) Starting New Construction without obtaining authorization
to proceed and tree removal permit: $500.00
17.8
Exceeding the nine (9)-month construction time limit:
$100.00 and $25.00 per day excluding Sundays and holidays.
17.9
Violation of Rules and Regulations: Section 2.1, SVCA Bylaws
Article VI Section 7 (leasing):
(a) Duplex or excessive occupancy: $25.00/day.
(b) Failure to provide tenant information: $10.00 per
day.
17.10
Miscellaneous fines: (Hours of Operations Rules):
(a) First violation: $50.00
(b) Second violation: $100.00
(c) Third violation: $200.00.
17.11
Fines for violation of Covenants, Bylaws, Rules and Regulations or ACC
guidelines not specifically stated in this document:
(a)
First violation: $50.00
(b) Second violation: $75.00
(a) Third violation: $100.00
17.12
Erosion Control: Failure to implement proper Best Management Practices
(BMPs)
(a) First violation: $50.00 & Cleanup of affected
areas.
(b) Second Violation: $100 & Cleanup of affected
areas.
(c) Additional Violations: $100 per day until corrected
& Cleanup of affected areas.
17.13 Cleaning/Emptying of Concrete Trucks or Pump Trucks on SVCA Property
per ACC Guideline 14.4.6:
(a) First Violation: $500.00
(b) Second Violation: $1000.00
(c) Third Violation: $1000.00 and possible expulsion
from Sudden Valley for one (1) Year
(d) Accidental Dumping of Concrete on roadway: $100.00
& costs associated with removal, cleanup or resurfacing of roadway(s)
affected.
17.14 Obstructing an officer or representative of Sudden Valley:
(a) Obstructing an officer. $100.00
(b) Refuse to furnish accurate information and/or lying
to avoid penalty or responsibility. $100.00
(c) Threatening an officer or reprentative of Sudden
Valley. $200.00
(d) Physical aggression toward an officer or representative
of Sudden Valley. $500.00 Plus criminal charges.
(e) Physical aggression toward an officer or representative
of Sudden Valley involving injury. $2,500.00 Plus criminal charges.
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