One of the things which ensures we maintain the unique and beautiful character of our neighborhood are the covenants and bylaws which govern certain aspects of neighborhood living. The Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring these covenants are followed, but it is the willingness and the courtesy of each resident to follow them without the involvement of the Board which makes the neighborhood such a great place to live. Upon moving in to the neighborhood, each new homeowner receives a disclosure packet which includes these governing documents. Below is a bullet-point list which highlights some of the covenants. The list is not comprehensive and is intended solely as a quick-reference. You are strongly encouraged to read the actual covenants and bylaws in order to have a complete and accurate understanding of the standards which govern our community.
Albemarle County passed a new ordinance regarding barking dogs. The ordinance states that it shall be unlawful to keep or harbor a dog that barks, howls, or otherwise causes an audible nuisance in excess of 30 minutes without interruption. Though this ordinance does not affect those who keep their dogs on 5+ acre parcels of land, the ordinance does cover everyone in Mill Creek South. In consideration of your neighbors, if you have a dog to which this ordinance may apply, please take measures to train your pet appropriately.
For more information regarding this ordinance, please refer to the following:
The complete ordinance from Albemarle County (.pdf, page 21)
Any structure, including fences, sheds and additions, as well as any change to an existing structure, including paint color, must first be approved by the Architectural Review Committee (ARC). An ARC application form is included in your packet. You should contact Dell Erwin (434)245-5891 with questions regarding the ARC, including whether your plans would require ARC approval.
Trees with trunks greater than 3" in diameter may not be removed, unless they are dead, without prior permission from the ARC.
No signs of any kind, including real estate and political signs, are allowed to be displayed on your property.
Pets are not permitted off your lot unless they are on a leash.
Toys, bicycles, tools and the like should be kept in minimally visible areas.
The exterior of your home and your lawn must kept in good condition.
If you are notified of a violation and do not correct the problem, the Association may have the right to do so at your expense.
Disclosure Packets
State law requires that each prospective new owner be given a disclosure packet containing the governing documents and other information about the Homeowners Association. Included in the packet are copies of the Association's articles of incorporation and bylaws, as well as copies of the Declarations of Covenants which govern our neighborhood. If you are selling your home, you or your realtor should purchase a copy of the current disclosure packet. (Some information in the packet changes frequently and you cannot simply pass along the packet you got when you purchased your home.) This packet should be reviewed by a prospective purchaser before signing a contract. Disclosure packets can be obtained below:
New Homeowner Form
New Homeowner Disclosure Packet
Articles of Incorporation
Declaration of Covenants
Bylaws
In addition, if you are a current homeowner and have misplaced your packet or would like an updated version, you are certainly free to purchase a copy of the most recent disclosure packet. Any particular questions regarding any information in the packet, including questions regarding the bylaws or the covenants, should be directed to the Board of Directors.