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| Four Seasons Hemet Herald | APRIL 2025 | 7 Permanent Generators, Solar Batteries, Patios, and Gates May Require an ARC Application: Our Architectural Standards and Regulations describe in detail the requirements for alterations to theexterior of your property that require an application to and approval by the Board's Architectural Review Committee (ARC). There are numerous types of exterior alterations that are described in the Regulations. If you have an alteration in mind that is not specifically covered by the Regulations, such an alteration is still subject to ARC review if it is outside your home and can be viewed from public spaces. Most of the applications the ARC receives are for painting or landscaping. The purpose of this article is to identify several other kinds of exterior alterations that are often submitted to the ARC. Generators and Solar Batteries: With the recent, more frequent and lengthy power shut offs, there has been increased interest in permanent generators and solar batteries (also known as ESS, Energy Storage Systems). Page 20 of the Standards states that "Battery back- up and/or associated equipment must be installed inside the garage." Such equipment requested to be located outside the garage, will be considered by the ARC on an individual application basis. Front Yard Patios: Patio Structures, Furniture, and Umbrellas, Patio Covers (Standards Pages 11-13): Many of our homes have patios that are not covered or are covered to a degree. Patio structures are subject to ARC review. Pictures of the patio area, the plan for the cover or items, and the materials to be used should be provided. There are a few variations allowed for homes in the Legends. Patio covers cannot be enclosed to create a room addition. Fences and Gates; Wrought Iron/Metal Gates (Standards Pages 13-14): There is a great deal of variety in these items in our homes. Often, they provide additional privacy or improve the unique character of the home. One can see this as you drive or walk around our community, perhaps looking for ideas of what you might do. The Standards here are relatively brief, but important. You may need to coordinate your plan with an adjoining neighbor. Wood fencing and gates must be stained with the Board approved stain color, Padre Brown, unless otherwise approved by the ARC. Detailed pictures of the items, placement, materials, and colors should be provided with an application to the ARC. Paved Areas (Standards Page 18): Homes outside of the Legends have pavement from the street to the garage. Some homeowners have chosen to expand their driveway. The Standards define the allowable expansion for reasonable vehicular access. Driveway expansion to provide additional off-street parking for more than two vehicles or beyond access to a garage is not permitted. Driveway expansion is limited to two feet (2') on either side of the driveway. A specific plan for the expansion with detailed dimensions, and the materials to be used, must be provided with an application to the ARC. With these kinds of exterior alterations, as with all others, you are encouraged to review your ideas and plans with Maria Donti, even before submitting an application, which she will review to help you comply with the Standards. Please don't' start or complete an alteration before securing ARC approval. This will save you, and the ARC, unnecessary headache, and maybe even costs. Architectural Review

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