Landscaping continues to be a major source of compliance complaints from both residents and the association's property inspector. A recent compliance report revealed that landscape violations are still over 40% of all violations in the neighborhood. That, together with trash and recycling containers and other debris left visible from the street account for about 60% of all violations. In order to protect the property values of the neighborhood, the Directors are serious about tackling these and other issues affecting the appearance of Canyon Creek.
Under the Master Declaration of the Association, all owners, at their own expense, have the duty and responsibility to keep their Lot in good condition and repair and in a well-maintained, clean and attractive condition at all times. Failure to comply with the association's restrictive covenants can result in fines levied under the association's fine policy. A new, stronger fine policy went into effect in July and penalties can begin accruing after only one courtesy notice. To help residents comply and avoid fines, the board has prepared the following information on appearance and maintenance expectations.
Landscape Maintenance and General Appearance
An Owner's Lot must be kept neat and tidy in appearance. Lawns must be kept mowed, edged and free of weeds and trash. Planters and beds must be kept free of weeds, leaves and other debris. Some latitude is permitted for seasonal leaf shedding. Shrubs and trees must be kept trimmed and attractive. Any dead foliage or limbs must be removed promptly. Nothing on an Owner's Lot must be allowed to become overgrown or unmaintained. Owners with xeriscaping are reminded that "low-maintenance" does not mean "no-maintenance." Xeriscaped beds must be equally maintained, edged and kept free of weeds, leaves and other debris.
Sufficient water must be applied to the landscaping, in accordance with any mandatory watering schedule in effect, to maintain the sod and plantings on the Lot. Landscape irrigation systems must be kept in good working order. Sod must not be allowed to die due to lack of water. Bare spots are not allowed although some latitude is permitted in heavily shaded yards where sod is difficult to grow. In this case, it may be more attractive to create a bed and to mulch or use shade tolerant plants. Be aware that construction of new beds requires an application to and review by the Architectural Review Committee.
Driveways, sidewalks and curbs must be kept edged and free of clippings and leaves. All hardscape including driveways, sidewalks, curbs, planters, retaining walls, etc. must be kept free of weeds, grasses or other plants within expansion joints, seams, etc. Sidewalks must be kept clear of shrubbery overgrowth and overhanging limbs so as not to obstruct the walkway.
Residents are also prohibited from discarding yard waste, brush, compost, trash or any other item on any Greenbelt or Amenity Area. This applies equally to Owners of Lots bordering the Greenbelt. The City of Austin provides weekly yard waste collection and twice annual large brush collection for this purpose.
Fences
Fences must be kept attractive and in good repair. Each owner must promptly repair and replace any missing, broken or rotted fence pickets, posts and gates. Fencing must not be allowed to lean or sag excessively. Gates must be kept closed except when entering or exiting. Wooden fencing may be stained upon prior approval by the Architectural Review Committee. If a fence is already stained, repairs must be similarly stained. Stain must be maintained from time to time due to the effects of natural weathering and sprinkler spray.
Trash and Recycling Containers
These may be placed at the curb no earlier than 8pm the evening before the designated collection day and returned to their storage area no later than 8pm on the day of collection. At all other times, carts must be screened from view and not visible from the street. Use of privacy screens for carts is permitted but requires prior approval by the Architectural Review Committee.
Thank you for helping us keep Canyon Creek looking its best. If you have questions about these requirements or need to report a violation, please reach out to the board at anytime.