As summer starts changing into fall, many of us will be planning our projects for the upcoming busy season. This article will cover things to consider as you prepare your plans.
If your plans involve changes to your landscaping that include tree removal or planting, modifications to landscape bed design, or significant changes to shrubbery, you will be required to have prior HOA approval before starting those projects. Many landscape contractors and nurseries can provide documents detailing the work to be performed. That can be very helpful as you will need to include those details explaining how your yard will change when the work is completed.
Changes to your permanent structures, such as widening a driveway, expanding a lanai, or installing a pool may require both Grounds and ARC (Architecture Review Committee) approval. If needed, applications for Grounds and ARC should be submitted together to help speed up the process. ARC requests that also need Grounds approval will not be reviewed if the proper documentation is not included.
Applications are available at the HOA office or online at https://hggcc.com/hghoa/pdfs/forms/grounds_request.pdf and https://hggcc.com/hghoa/pdfs/forms/arc_request.pdf. Timing your submission can also help with speedy approval. Applications must be received in the HOA office at least one week prior to the scheduled committee meeting. This allows time for committee members to contact you to review and clarify any questions they may have.
The Grounds Committee meets on the second Thursday of the month at 1:00 p.m. ARC meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m. Both meetings are in the HOA Board Room (off the main lobby). All residents are welcome to attend these meetings.
Don’t forget to consider buried utilities and sprinklers. Dial 811 (or submit a ticket online) before starting any digging project to have underground utility lines safely and legally marked. This free service prevents accidental damage to water, gas, and electric lines. State law usually requires contacting them 2 to 3 business days in advance. Sprinklers can be marked and changed, if necessary, by calling Mainscape at 800-481-0096 or online at http://www.Mainscape.com/CustomerCare.
Contractors must be licensed and insured before starting work. The HOA office will review the contractor’s documentation to ensure that it meets all the requirements. There is space on the forms for providing that information.
Good luck with your projects to keep our place in paradise beautiful.
