Architectural Review (ARC)

Instructions for submitting an ARC request
 
For general information email us using the Contact Us Page.

Architectural Review applications may be obtained by contacting Marybeth.Vega@pmpbiz.com at Property Management People, Inc (PMP). PMP will be handling all applications and questions. Once an application is completed, he will forward to the Deerfield ARC Committee for processing/review. 
 
The submission must be from the homeowner, and should include:
  • Date, name, address, phone number and email address.  Providing an email address will speed up a response.
  • A full description of the proposed change.
  • Colors, styles, and types of materials to be used.
  • Color changes should include a color sample, or reference to web site.  References to existing homes in the community will speed up a decision.
  • A copy of the lot plat or if not available, a hand drawn picture of the lot, with the proposed changes clearly marked as to size and location.
  • Any special circumstances.
Missing or insufficient information will delay a response and may keep a submission from being approved.
Architectural Guidelines for Home Improvements
 
Following are guidelines important to every Deerfield resident when it comes time to make home improvements, such as the addition of fences, landscaping, decks, storage sheds, storm doors, and the like. Residents are encour­aged to keep this information sheet handy for future reference. The guidelines were adopted by the Architectural Re­view Committee based upon those originally drafted by Ausherman Homes during the development of Deerfield. Contact marybeth.vega@pmpbiz.com at PMP for an ARC Application Form. PMP will be handling all applications and questions. Once an application is completed, she will forward to the Deerfield ARC Committee for processing/review. 
 
General Requirements: The following information is required to be submitted by the homeowner requesting approval to the Architectural Review Committee:
  • Diagram, drawing, or photograph of proposed item
  • Location described including site plan/house location survey
  • Colors and styles including all trim colors.  Color samples or reference to an existing color in the neighborhood are required.  
  • Contact information including address, email, and phone number.  Including an email address will usually expedite the response.   
Fences
  • Maximum height is 48 inches, except where specific exception is provided in the covenants, such as around pools.
  • Corner lots—side yard where street is located, fence must stop at the building restriction line.
  • Wood fence styles required or may use new PVC material.
  • Fencing to be installed at rear corners of the home, e.g. cannot extend past the rear corners of the home.
  • If painted or stained, is to match existing home; typically a clear sealer is applied to the lumber.
 
Landscaping
  • All visible landscaping that changes the pattern of the graded lot must be approved by the committee.
  •  Trees used for a fence row can extend past the rear corner of the home for the purpose of delineating inter-lot boundaries However, in no case shall trees or any other landscaping be run parallel to the street/sidewalk boundaries for the purpose of creating a fence row along the street/sidewalk.
Patios/sidewalks that are not visible from the street are not required to be submitted for committee approval.
 
Decks
  • Deck railing height usually 36 inches, but will approve up to 42 inches.
  • If there is a roof cover, the owner must submit detail drawings/photographs and specifications; all materials such as shingles, gables, overhangs, etc., are to match the existing home in size, type, style, color, texture.
  • If painted or stained, is to match existing home; typically a clear sealer is applied to the lumber.
Storage Shed
  • Typical size is up to 12 feet by 12 feet or 14 feet by 16 feet; double or single doors. No garage doors will be approved.
  • Location always goes along the rear of the property line, never up close to the house. On corner lots, shed cannot extend past building restriction line on side yard. Exceptions have been given to these locations based upon storm water drainage problems at the rear of the property. 
  • Colors are to match existing home.
Playground Equipment
  • An application must be approved by the committee before play equipment is installed.
Storm Doors
  • Full view style (mostly glass) only
  • Color to match front door, trim, or siding
Mail Boxes
  • Brick, wood, or any other type of mail box enclosures may not exceed an area of 2 feet by 2 feet.
Additions
  • All exterior materials are to match existing home in size, type, colors, style, and texture. In addition, the roof pitch, eaves, and overhangs are to match the existing home.
Pools
  • All permanent pools require approval as to location and construction. 
  • Starting in 2009, all temporary pools require approval as to location.  
  • Temporary pools must be removed after the summer season.  Any temporary pool left up after the summer season will be considered in violation.
  • No permanent or metal sided above ground pools will be approved.
  • All permits as well as fencing and safety requirements are the responsibility of the homeowner to obtain from the Town of Walkersville/County of Frederick.