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ARCHTECTURAL REVIEW PROCESS / GUIDELINES
Below you will find a document that has been adopted by your Board of Directors; the revised set of Architectural Guidelines, and a Yard Maintenance Policy.
These ARC guidelines replace the existing ones that you may have received at the closing of your home. These work in conjunction with the Covenants and Restrictions of Governors Run. When the Architectural Committee and the Board approached the revision process, we had three goals: uphold the existing beauty and integrity of Governors Run, have the guidelines more specifically address our neighborhood needs and issues, and do these things in a ‘kinder and gentler’ fashion. For instance, things that in the past were prohibited such as satellite dishes, portable basketball hoops and deer netting, are now allowed if thoughtful considerations are met.
The Yard Maintenance Policy was created for similar reasons. The Landscape Committee and the Board want to help maintain a neighborhood that we can all be proud of, our yards are a big part of our look. It seemed that spelling out some of the basics might help better obtain consistency on all our streets.
Please review this documents. We appreciate your care and support.
Very truly yours,
The Board of Directors
ARCHTECTURAL REVIEW PROCESS / GUIDELINES
PLEASE NOTE: SELECTED TOPICS ARE ADDRESSED IN THESE GUIDELINES HOWEVER, THEY WILL NOT COVER EVERY ALTERATION OR SITUATION, WHICH MAY ARISE. IF YOU ARE UNSURE WHETHER OR NOT AN ALTERATION IS ALLOWABLE, OR WHETHER AN APPLICATION IS REQUIRED, PLEASE SEND A NOTEREQUESTING CLARIFICATION TO THE ARC.
Prior to construction of an improvement on a lot, plans for the proposed improvement to be constructed shall be submitted to the Architectural Review Committee (ARC) for study and approval. Prior to submitting review form the Governors Run Declaration of Covenants. Easements. Charges and Liens should be reviewed to ensure that your planned project is in compliance.
Please submit the following items listed below:
1. An online ARC submittal review form (required).
2. Complete set of architectural plans or site plan (required).
3. Site location and grading plan, if applicable, showing actual existing topography match to adjacent lots.
4. Landscape plan (if applicable).
5. $200.00 review fee payable to Governors Run Architectural Review Committee (for primary new residence or major additions only).
6. Requests for variances -It is strongly recommended that neighbor’s sign off for approved changes prior to submittal.
NOTE: NO WORK SHOULD COMMENCE UNTIL WRITTEN APPROVAL IS RECEIVED FROM THE ARC. ALL WORK SHALL BE COMPLETED WITHIN SIX (6) MONTHS OF APPROVAL
Attention to the list of requirements for each submission is important. The Architectural Review Committee may at their discretion submit these documents to appropriate outside professional review, i.e., an architectural firm, an engineering firm, or a landscape consultant.
The Architectural Review Committee will make every effort to be helpful and to simplify the review process to save applicants time, money and frustration. With your cooperation on the above, the Architectural Review Committee should be able to complete its reviews under normal circumstances in 7 to 21 days.
Appealing the ARC Decision
If you disagree with the disapproval of your application, you may appeal the decision. Submit a written request for appeal within ten (10) days after the date, which the ARC makes a decision along with your comments and the application form to the Governors Run Board of Directors. The Board will set a date for the review of your appealed you will be notified so that you may attend the meeting.
If you wish to modify the original application, please submit a new application to the ARC and note that it is a resubmission for review.
The Process of Enforcement
It is hoped that all residents of the Governors Run community will follow these guidelines for exterior alterations and landscaping. However, when a complaint is received and a violation of the guidelines is apparent. The homeowner will be contacted and asked to correct the problem or submit an application within fifteen (15) days. Our experience has been that most problems are corrected at this stage.
If the initial contact does not result in correction of the problem, the homeowner will receive formal written notification requesting action. Upon lack of corrective action within fifteen (15) days from receipt of this notification, legal action may be initiated.
If you have questions regarding the review process, they should be directed to the ARC Committee.
APPLICATION TO HOWARD COUNTY FOR CONSTRUCTION PERMITS SHOULD NOT BE MADE UNTIL FINAL PLANS HAVE BEEN APPROVED BY THE ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE.
A plan submission is to include any of the following information necessary to convey the nature of the improvement:
1. A site plan to 1″ -50’ scale, locating all improvements and showing both existing topography and finished grading. All existing topography should be field verified prior to preparing your site plan; reliance on topography shown on subdivision grading plans may not be adequate.
2. Architecture showing all floor plans and elevations accurately to 1/4″ scale, including trim, finish details, materials and colors.
3. Landscape plans specifying location, species and size of plant materials, both existing and proposed, location and details of any fencing, decks, pools or patios, walkways and exerior lighting.
4. A specification sheet for exterior treatments proposed (if applicable).
5. Samples of actual exterior materials and colors proposed. This would include brick and mortar samples, paint charts, lighting cut sheets, siding materials, fence styles, and the like.
6. Plan showing the location of any temporary construction trailer, storage area or sign.
The Architectural Review Committee shall have the right to disapprove the plans and specifications submitted because of any of the following:
A. The failure of such plans or specifications to comply with the restrictions.
B. Failure to include information in the plans and specifications, which is required or has been reasonably requested.
C. Objections to the exterior design, appearance or materials of any proposed structure.
D. Incompatibility of any proposed structure with existing or approved structures for any other lot in the Governors Run subdivision.
E. Objection to the location of any proposed structure upon any lot of with reference to other lots in the subdivision.
F. Objection to grading plan for any lot.
G. Objection to the color scheme, finish, proportions, style or architecture, height, bulk or appropriateness of any proposed structure.
H. Any other matter, which, in the judgment of the Architectural Review Committee would render the proposed structure or structures inharmonious with the general plan of improvement of the property or with structures located upon other lots in the subdivision.
SITE PLANNING AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Grading and Topography: The basic landform of each lot should be preserved throughout construction. No lot can be altered to accommodate an incompatible house type or building form. Grading should follow the natural topography. New grades should meet existing grades in a smooth transition. Steep banks from new grades to existing grades will not be permitted. Fill from excavation must not be placed in existing tree areas.
2. Building Locations, Setbacks: Buildings must be constructed within the building envelopes established by the Architectural Review Committee. These may, in some cases, be more restrictive than the County’s setbacks. The Architectural Review Committee reserves the right to require owners to stagger setbacks in relation to adjacent houses to achieve some diversity in the streetscape.
3. Heights: The Howard County Building Code does not permit wood frame structures to exceed 35′ in height, measured from the average foundation grade to the mean level of the gable.
4. Garages: Each home shall have at least a two-car garage. Side entry garage door openings are preferred. Waiver of the Covenant provision requiring that a garage be attached to the house will be considered. Carports will not be permitted.
5. Driveways: Should be bituminous concrete (asphalt) or other approved hard surface material, except that concrete shall not be allowed without prior written consent.
6. Walkways: Sidewalks along the street must be constructed to County standards and placed in accordance with the approved Development Plan for the Governors Run subdivision. Other walkways may be constructed of brick or other decorative paving materials.
7. Swimming Pools: Pools will only be permitted if constructed in the ground. On steeply sloping lots, partial protrusion of a pool above ground will be permitted provided an approved deck designed to screen the exposed wall satisfactorily surrounds it. Applications for hot tubs are required and must be an integral part of a deck, pool or patio.
8. House Numbers: Shall be 3″ in height, mounted horizontally on the front of the house.
9. Mailboxes: Shall conform to standard U.S. Postal Service Standards and be mounted on a 4×4 pressure treated post, unless otherwise approved.
TRADITONAL HOMES, DESIGN FEATURES AND MATERIALS
1. Roofs
A. Pitch shall not be less than 8/12.
B. Any Dutch colonial roof shall be properly framed. Fining out of an exterior wall surface to simulate a Dutch roof will not be approved.
C. False parapets or mansards will not be approved.
D. Roof material must be high quality, composite material shingles, cedar shakes, or slate.
2. Walls
A. Brick color must be approved.
B. Stone should be indigenous to the area such as Butler stone or equal. Reconstructed stone or flagstone will not be approved.
C. Horizontal natural wood siding such as cedar or redwood, on traditional board and batten siding is acceptable. High quality vinyl or aluminum siding is acceptable. Stains, Siding or paint colors must be approved. Note that plywood siding or other sheet goods and asbestos shingles will not be approved Facia boards must be wood, or Styrofoam composite with paint finish.
D. Stucco or dryvit material is acceptable on some house styles. Color and finish must be approved.
E. Brick shall be used on all front elevations wherever possible.
3. Foundation Walls
Front elevations shall be treated in accordance with the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions. The finish is to be brick, stucco, parging or stone to grade.
4. Flashings
Copper or 0.032 aluminum painted to match the roof is acceptable.
5. Windows
A. Aluminum or all-metal windows will not be permitted without prior approval.
B. All windows on traditional homes should be double hung sashes with mullion bars, or traditional style casements with mullions.
C. Patio doors must be wood and/or vinyl coated
6. Shutters
A. Shutters are to be fabricated of wood or vinyl.
B. Shutters shall be raised panel, or louvered.
7. Fireplaces
Exterior stacks are to be brick, stone, wood, vinyl or aluminum siding; metal stacks are not appropriate.
8. Vents
All heating and mechanical ventilating elements should be located on the rear surface of the roof pitch. Any mechanical vent is to be painted to match the roof and is to be located so there is minimum visibility of it from the street.
B. Flues for oil furnaces shall be accommodated in brick, stone, wood or vinyl stacks.
9. Garage Doors
Garage doors are to be constructed of wood or aluminum, framed and paneled.
10. Storage
Any ancillary storage or maintenance facilities must be integral with the house or garage.
11. Solar Collectors
A. Maryland state law prohibits a homeowners’ association (HOA) from placing restrictions or conditions on solar panel installation that “(1) significantly increase the cost of a solar system, and/or (2) significantly decrease the system’s efficiency” (Maryland Real Property Code §2–119).
B. Homeowners must still prepare an application to the ARC following the regular process. Please provide a Plat showing the layout of the proposed Solar Collectors and spec sheet(s) detailing the quantity and models to be installed.
12. Exterior Lighting
No application is required for exterior lighting meeting these guidelines:
A. Walk lights, landscape lighting, and security lights are permitted provided they do not cause objectionable glare to neighbors and drivers.
B. Style of exterior lighting shall coordinate with existing lighting and/or style of home, and coordinate with surrounding property.
13. Awnings
Awnings shall be located to the rear of the dwelling only. Wood and/or canvas in earth tones are the preferred materials. No aluminum or fiberglass awnings will be approved. Pipe frames must be painted to match the trim or dominant house color, and should be removed if and when the awnings are removed for winter storage.
14. Basketball Backboards
Not allowed by covenants. Portable basketball backboards can be placed in the driveway. Play should not extend to the street. Portable backboards should be removed during extended periods of non-use.
15. Clotheslines
Not permitted
16. Birdbaths, Birdhouses, and Birdfeeders
No application is required for birdbaths, birdhouses, and birdfeeders as long as they are located in the rear yard only. Variance may be granted if part of integral landscape design
17. Vehicles
Refer to Article VII, Section 7, Paragraph 7, Page 19
18. Storm Doors
Application is not required for storm doors meeting the following requirements:
A No outside ornamental security bars will be permitted.
B. The storm door must coordinate with the color of the siding, door, or trim of the house, and must fit in the existing doorframe.
C. Storm doors must be in full view glass, with 80% of the area glass or screen.
D. Under no circumstances shall temporary plastic sheeting be approved.
19. Gardens and Low-Impact Landscaping
A. These Guidelines adhere to the requirements of Sec. 2-125 of the Real Property Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. The legislative summary for the bill enacting this legislation stated the following:
“Prohibiting a certain restriction on use from imposing unreasonable limitations on low-impact landscaping such as rain gardens, pollinator gardens, and xeriscaping; requiring the property owner to regularly maintain landscaping; providing that “unreasonable limitations” includes items that increase the cost and efficiency of the low-impact program; providing that the Act may not be construed to prohibit a certain restriction on use from including certain reasonable guidelines; etc.”
B. An on-line application is required for all gardens and landscaping to allow the ARC to determine (1) the scope of the work; (2) whether the garden or landscaping is protected from “unreasonable limitations” by Maryland law and (3) whether the finished work meets all other requirements of the Guidelines not otherwise prohibited by law or the Covenants.
C. Flower and vegetable gardens must be kept neat in appearance and free of debris at all times.
D. Vegetable gardens shall be located to the rear of the house,
E. Any wire fencing used to protect the vegetable garden from rodents must be removed at the end of the growing season. Stakes, wire, and rotting plant remains should also be removed at this time
F. Enclosed composting in the rear of the house is permitted.
20. Woodpiles
Application is not required for woodpiles, provided they are staked and maintained in an orderly fashion within the confines of the front porch, side or back yard No woodpiles are allowed in the front yard
21. Artificial Grass
No artificial grass or indoor/outdoor carpeting will be permitted where it is visible from the street or to the neighbors, with the exception to small doormats. Variances may be granted for backyard recreational facilities.
22. Antennas
A. All antennas require an application.
B. Satellite dishes over one (1) meter are prohibited.
C. Antenna masts extending twelve (12) feet beyond the roofline are also prohibited.
D. Color selection and location should blend with the surrounding area where the antenna is located.
Landscaping
The manner in which the Governors Run site is landscaped will have a profound impact on the ultimate character of the community. The Developer and the Builders, to unify the neighborhood and provide an appropriate human scale to the streets, will implement A Street Tree Program. The Developer will also install landscaped entry features at the main entrances to the site.
In addition to the plant material installed by the Developer, supplemental landscaping will be required to be installed by the individual Builder or Home Owner on a lot-by-lot basis.
Foundation and Yard Planting
A minimum of 30 shrubs should be planted at the foundation of the front and side facades of the house. The shrubs should be grouped to provide year-round interest. Minimum shrub sizes are 18″ -24″ in height unless a specific compact shrub is utilized thereby allowing a smaller shrub. Variety should be achieved in color, texture and height with at least one-half of the total number of shrubs being evergreen. The planting design should respect the architectural features of the house; for example, plant material installed beneath windows should not be the variety that would grow to the height above the bottom of the window. Taller plant material may be more appropriate at the house comers or flanking the Front door for the purpose of framing and emphasizing or softening the architectural edges. A total of six additional trees should be planted in the front and/or side yard of each house. The trees may be of shade, flowering or evergreen varieties. A list of recommended plant material is provided on Table 1. Trees should be a minimum of 8 feet in height. Street trees do not count toward these requirements.
It is desirable to install backyard plant material along the back and side yard property lines to provide screening from adjacent homes while creating a “space” between the house and the planting. Ornamental or shade trees may be appropriate to plant in the created backyard space to provide an overhead plane and seasonal interest without filling up the space. Fences are not required, but if an owner plans the installation of a fence, it must be detailed on the submitted plans and conform to Covenant provisions.
Fencing
Proper fencing and decking can have a unifying effect on a neighborhood, but an uncoordinated selection of designs and materials can detract and clutter the appearance. Cooperation among neighbors in this matter can affect the visual harmony of the area.
Privacy fencing should be limited to areas immediately adjacent to the house or a deck built off the house. This fencing should be made of pressure treated wood and left to weather to a natural color. Board on board or solid board fence finish side out is acceptable.
In no case shall the perimeter property line fencing be higher than 48”. These types of fencing should be kept low with a maximum height of 4′ 0″. If containment of children or pets is desired, vinyl -coated, rectangular wire mesh may be attached to the owner’s side of the fence.
The split rail fence should be made from cedar or pressure treated pine and left to weather or stained a natural grey tone.
The picket, narrow picket or running board fence must be painted an approved color and maintained to a neat appearance.
Fencing shall not be permitted in front yards.
Chain link or stockade fencing shall not be permitted.
Fencing should not be used where it would interfere with a prominent view.
Landscape Fencing
Landscape protection shall be minimally obtrusive as possible; no dimensions shall be greater than 3/32″ thick, color to blend.
Swimming Pool Fencing
A 48″ high fence is required around in-ground swimming pools. The purpose of the fence requirements is to restrict children from gaining unauthorized access to the pool. The fence may be split rail with attached wire mesh as described above.
Variances for height will be considered for other types of fences.
Accessory Buildings
It is preferred that buildings for storage of lawn equipment, fertilizer, dog houses, permanent grills/BBQ’s, play houses, play equipment, etc. shall be an integral part of the house or site design. Freestanding accessory buildings shall be of materials and colors consistent with that on the house. They shall be reviewed and approved by the Architectural Review Committee on a per case basis.
Decks and Porches
Decks shall be permitted if constructed off the back of any house. While the shape of a deck is flexible, no part of it should extend beyond the side of the house. Where a deck occurs at the second level of a house and has a blank: wall below (no windows or doors), it is desirable to enclose the space below the deck. Enclosures may be of a solid board or semi -open (lattice) construction. Enclosures should be stained or painted to match the deck as outlined later in this section.
A staircase extending from a second level deck to the ground should run parallel to the deck, not perpendicular to it. At the ground level, the stairs should end at a landing, not in the grass.
Railings should meet all local codes for height and permitted size of openings.
Individual rails within the railing should run vertically or horizontally. Diagonal or radical rails are less desirable, unless part of a specific design.
A facia panel should be applied to all sides extending down from the level of the deck in order to screen the structure supports.
All decks should be stained with either a clear finish to preserve the natural color of the wood or a natural grey to reflect a weathered look. It may also be appropriate to paint the deck to match the color of the house.
Any enclosed porch should be designed as an integral part of the house. Materials and colors should be the same as those used on the house. Inappropriate, roofing material similar to that on the house should be used.
Building Permits necessary from Howard County for any improvements are the responsibility of the homeowner, and separate from the Architectural Review Committee.
Governors Run Lawn and Landscape Policy
In order to maintain the property values in Governors Run and The Courtyards, it is necessary that all homeowners keep their respective properties maintained according to the following guidelines:
1. Grass should be weeded, fertilized, trimmed and mowed to a height of approximately 3 1/2 inches.
2. Shrubs and plant beds should be weeded, trimmed and maintained to prevent overgrowth and insect infestation.
3. Driveways should be maintained and or topped periodically to prevent potholes and crumbling of asphalt.
4. Cement sidewalks should be maintained to prevent cracking or crumbling.
Revision History:
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- July 14, 2020: Updated Item 11 on Solar Collectors to align the guidelines with Maryland state law.
- January 23, 2023: Updated the section on Gardens to accommodate the Maryland law on low-impact landscaping.
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