Recently we have sent the following letter to specific impacted homeowners to help remind them of the maintenance on non-HOA arborvitaes and provide an option for a fence style that has been adopted by the board.
September 4th, 2024
Dear Homeowners,
This letter serves as a reminder for those whose properties back up to a black chain-link fence where arborvitae is planted. These trees, located inside the fence, are owned and maintained by the respective homeowners. Both the Board of Directors and some homeowners have observed that certain arborvitae, particularly those near walking paths, wetlands, and green spaces, are showing signs of distress and require attention.
As outlined in the HOA governing documents, homeowners are responsible for maintaining these arborvitaes as part of their landscape. This includes watering, trimming, and replacing any trees that do not survive. Please note that the Association’s irrigation and landscaping contracts do not extend to arborvitae planted within a homeowners’ backyard inside the black chain-link fence.
Recognizing the potential cost of maintaining these trees, the Board has adopted a new policy aimed at reducing long-term maintenance expenses for homeowners. At the September 2024 board meeting, the Board approved an option for homeowners to replace arborvitae in these areas with a “Solid Panel Good Neighbor Fence with Top Cap.” This policy was also shared with homeowners during the Annual Meeting in October.
This approved fence style offers a straightforward installation next to the black chain-link fence only, and provides several benefits, including:
- Restoring homeowner backyard privacy
- Maximizing usable homeowner property space
- Reducing long-term homeowner maintenance costs
- Ensuring a consistent and cohesive aesthetic throughout the neighborhood
The fence seamlessly complements both existing healthy arborvitae and the current “Good Neighbor Fence with Top Cap” design used within the community.
Important Note: Homeowners with healthy arborvitae that prefer to retain their trees, are not required to replace them with a fence. This policy is simply an option for those who wish to replace distressed or dead arborvitae in the future. As always, homeowners are expected to maintain any existing arborvitae and fencing as specified in the HOA governing documents. If you desire to make landscape and exterior changes, please visit our website: https://www.arborridgeonline.com/forms/architectural-review/ and file an ARC Request for changes.
