The Ranch at Clay Station DRC Frequently Ask Questions
1. Why the $300 fee? This is a onetime fee. Merit Management Company charges $50.00 to process each submission of plans. We also scan plans to disk.
2. How many copies of plans do I need to submit? Three Sets.
3. Do neighbors have to sign off on my project? Yes, each owner occupied home to the right and left.
4. When does the DRC meet and can I attend the meeting to explain my plans. The DRC meets on a weekly basis whenever possible, you will be notified of the date, time and location so you may attend. It is important that a homeowner attend to answer any questions the DRC may have. The DRC meets at 6:00 pm every Monday at The Ranch, call Merit fotr the Meeting location.
5. Should I show structures even though I plan only to install lawn or only the pool? Any items you plan to do in the future mark as future. Future items will need to be submitted for approval, however, if you are ready to have the complete plan approved but have to phase the install, submit your timeline for the project.
6. I started my landscaping but I did not get approval. What do I do? Take pictures and submit your project along with the $300 fee. Your plans will be reviewed in a timely manner and you can attend the meeting.
7. What if I choose not to conform to the CC&R?s etc.? A Certificate of Compliance is important when selling your home in the future. The DRC and the HOA want to work with you. If you violate the CC&Rs then there can be sanctions set by the Board of Directors. Our goal is to encourage quality projects and give help and insight wherever we can.
8. Should I be concerned about structures and landscaping in relation to my septic, pit or leach field? Yes, access must be maintained to these systems. In addition, you cannot build or plant trees or shrubs with invasive roots over your leach pits/trenches not can you build structures in the reserve field.
9. How do I acquire a site plan so that I can have the project drawn to scale? Call Merit they will contact JTS and get you a site plan. Site plans are important because they show where the septic components, electrical lines, propane lines on your property.
10. What if the previous owner paid the $300 fee? Merit will check the records to see if this fee was paid. However, if landscaping is dead or you are re-landscaping or starting new projects you will need to submit your plans.
11. Do animal enclosures, barns, sheds, play structures, etc. need to be approved? Yes, any structure must be approved by the DRC. A picture or elevation of the structure and colors must be submitted with your plans.
12. Can I keep my boat, trailer or RV on the property? Yes, provided you screen them.
Trees, shrubs or a building can accomplish this. Screening must mature eighteen months. You cannot maintain these vehicles on the property. The DRC will give a variance provided the screening is in place before or within forty-five days of plan approval. Many homeowners have chosen to screen their entire property.
13. Is being on a well different from city water? Yes, we encourage homeowners to install a ?LOOP SYSTEM? This is important for water pressure and protection of well pump. Many landscape installers are not acquainted with this system, so contact us for more info.
14. Can I change the drainage on my lot? Not without county permission and the DRC. The Ranch is engineered for runoff so any changes could dramatically affect your neighbors or The Ranch. The county could levy heavy fines.
15. I want to paint my house do I need approval? Yes, if painting is different from the original JTS color scheme you need to submit colors for approval. If it is the same just let Merit know you are repainting your home the same colors no approval is necessary.
16. Do I need to have my chicken coop approved? Yes. Submit a picture and show size/color.
17. Do I need to screen barns, chicken coops, sheds, etc. We encourage landscaping to soften or break up the appearance.
18. Do I need to secure County permits for structures? Yes, plus Wilton Fire Chief approval. Also, beware of setback requirements. Any structure such as a shed over 120 sq. ft. needs county approval and permits.
19. Do horses need a shelter? Yes, Barns, Shed Row etc.
20. Do I need approval for my portable Sports Equipment? NO
21. I plan to install an entry gate with pillars and lighting are there issues I should be aware? Yes, your gate needs to be at least sixteen feet. This is a Wilton fire Dept. requirement. If you choose to install electronic opener the fire Dept. will not give you a nox box for emergency entry if your gate is less than the above width. Check with Wilton fire. Lighting: We encourage front mounted lighting with dimmer. Any outside lighting should be downcast in order to reduce light pollution at night. You also need DRC approval,
22. I want to change my Mail Box. You need DRC approval and the mail box must meet USPS rural mail box requirements.
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