| LIFE IN SOLERA | APRIL 2023 | 11
SPRING CLEANING AND LIGHTING
Spring cleaning is not only for inside your home, but also for the
outside. With all the rain we had last month, weeds are showing
their true colors. Plants have grown more than usual. Those who
have hardscape landscaping, as well as artificial turf, can see those
unwanted weeds. Beaumont winds have redistributed leaves, mulch,
ground cover, and other light objects in our yards. Take the time
to give your yard a spring cleaning. Many residents maintain their
landscaping - hope you are included.
Purchasing bright LED lighting, as seen on TV, is not a good idea.
Most of those lights exceed 600 lumens and cannot be adjusted.
(DRC Guidelines 5.10 #6). Motion detector lighting fixtures are
allowed provided there is no light trespass. "Light trespass" refers
to light interfering with the viewing of the night sky or eliminating
the ability to have darkness on adjacent properties, or shining into
neighboring windows, properties or structures. (5.10) Solar or low
voltage landscape/path lights in the front yard can be white/amber
with a maximum of 12V incandescent equivalent per bulb. (5.10
#9). Illuminating the driveway/pathway like an airstrip runway
is unacceptable. Under the patio or extended patio cover, exterior
single strand patio or rope lighting is allowed as long as the lights are
white. (5.10 #8) Christmas light strands are not intended for year-
round use. Cords can dry out and crack when exposed long-term
to the elements and can cause shorts in the wires or electrocutions
when touched. Worn wires may break or become frayed because of
our hot, dry weather. Both examples can be a fire hazard.
Design
Review
Committee
