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Architectural Review Board Guideline Summary

This summary represents a portion of the association declaration and by-laws. Please contact the ARB review board for more inclusive and detailed statements of the guidelines or for further clarification.

ARB Request Form (PDF)

The following are some highlights of the rules covered in the Declarations & ByLaws

  1. All plans and specifications for changes and improvements must be submitted in writing and approved by the ARB review board prior to the start of any work.
  2. Homeowners must obtain any governmental permits necessary for any additions or alterations.  This includes zoning, wetlands, and building permits.
  3. Sheds or other outbuildings are not permitted due to our permit with the town. Exterior storage is permitted per a rule adopted in July 2016 that defines acceptable exterior storage.
  4. Swings, gym sets, and “like equipment” are permitted only in the rear of the homesite lot. This will ensure safety as well as an esthetically appealing community. Homesite lots that have logistically challenging rear lots will be able to locate the swingsets on side yards with written ARB approval. Landscape screening may need to be installed at the discretion of the ARB and all costs will be paid for by the homesite lot owner.
  5. Trampolines, swimming pools (above ground or in-ground) and outbuildings are not allowed in Great Oak Farm.
  6. Fences may not exceed four (4) feet in height, including posts, and may not extend beyond the front façade of the residence.  Only “see-through” picket or lattice fences will be approved; vinyl fences will be considered.
  7. All fences bordering a road require prior written approval by the Architectural Review Board.
  8. Outdoor clotheslines are not permitted.
  9. No trees may be removed from “common” or “conservation” areas without prior written approval of the landscape and Architectural Review Board.
  10. Signs indicating commercial use (including “For Sale” signs) are not permitted.
  11. There are penalties attached to the violations of these restrictions and guidelines.  Fines may be levied after Notice and Hearing.

ARB REQUEST PROCESS

  • Formal Request on Official ARB Form Received
  • ARB Board member (as available) acknowledges receipt of request to resident (3-5 days), letting them know if further info is needed and when they could expect a response.
  • ARB Board member evaluates the request based on declaration, bylaws, and fit with the look and feel of the community.
  • ARB  Board member gets input from Landscaping Lead as required.
  • ARB Board member gets input and agreement from other board members for atypical or possibly controversial requests.
  • If ARB request is made by an ARB member, then the ARB Board Chair will give input and agreement as needed.
  • ARB member leading response will copy ARB and Executive Board on all responses and store all documents digitally.
  • Timing of final response, as referenced in declaration documents, is 60 days from receipt of all necessary documents. Target timing is to respond within 2 weeks, however more complex requests may need more time.
  • Resident uses ARB approval document to obtain Monroe Town permits as required.

ARB VIOLATION PROCESS

For any violation observed through ARB walk throughs or resident reporting:

  • ARB member(s) review the violation
  • ARB sends out first friendly notice to violator(s) giving them 30 days to either remedy, or work out an agreed plan and timing with ARB board, if it is not possible to complete in 30 days.
  • ARB member(s) follow up after a reasonable time period.
  • If resolved, ARB sends thank you notice.
  • If unresolved, ARB sends reminder notice warning that if left unresolved in 30 days, they will get a letter of Notice and Hearing.
  • ARB member(s) follow up after given time period.
  • If unresolved, ARB sends a Notice and Hearing 10 business days before the Executive board meeting for hearing to take place in accordance with Article XVII, section 18.2.

Remember that Great Oak Farm is serviced by underground utilities, wires, pipes, etc.  It is required that you or your contractor contact “Call Before You Dig” before any activity is undertaken. Any damage to this infrastructure as well as to roads or common areas caused by you or your contractors is your responsibility and must be repaired immediately.