Architectural Guidelines

Quick Reference Guide to Swan Point Guidelines:

Application Required:

**NOTE: Emergency repairs may be performed concurrently with application approval process.

ADDITIONS

Additions to the exterior of the unit are PROHIBITED.

AIR CONDITIONING UNITS

Emergency use of window air conditioning units is allowed until the unit heat pump is repaired or replaced. Any permanent use of window or room air conditioners that extend beyond the exterior wall is PROHIBITED.

ANTENNAS & SATELLITE DISHES

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC approval; Owen Brown approval depending on size and location.

Operation of any device requiring an antenna must not interfere with adjacent units’ electrical devices.

Satellite Dishes

Satellite dishes greater than 39 inches (1 meter) are not allowed.

• It is requested that satellite dishes be placed at the rear of the unit and not readily visible from the street, the common elements or a neighbor’s unit.
• The satellite dish may NOT exceed the chimney height.
• The satellite dish may NOT be installed anywhere on the Swan Point common elements.
• The satellite dish MUST be removed when the service is discontinued or the unit is sold.

Other Antennae

• Any antenna may be installed in the attic space of a unit without an application.
• Other antennas are not allowed anywhere within the Swan Point community.

ATTIC FANS & RIDGE VENTS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Attic fans are to be of a low profile and mounted on the rear side of the townhouse roof and not visible from the front side of the units.

Attic fans must be painted to match the area where the fan is mounted.

Ridge vents must blend with the roof materials.

If it becomes necessary to block the airflow through the ventilator, this must be done from inside the structure.

AWNINGS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

• Awnings may be attached to the rear of the unit only and may cover the upper deck only.
• They must be retractable lateral arm self-storing units with no vertical poles and may be motorized or operated by a hand crank.
• The awning and the awning casing must be a solid color and match the color of the unit siding.
• The awning must be constructed of fabric and may contain no fringe, tassels or other decorative embellishments.
• Flame retardant fabric is encouraged and recommended. Awnings must be no smaller than half the deck width and no larger than the footprint of the deck.
• The awning must be replaced or repaired if there is more than one hole or tear in the awning or if a hole or tear is two inches or greater in diameter.
• Awnings must not adversely affect views, sunlight, or natural ventilation of adjacent units.

The purpose of the awning is to provide shade and not weather protection. Thus, the awning must be retracted when there is no sunlight on the deck and/or when the resident is not home. The unit owner must assume complete responsibility for insurance of the awning and awning casing and any damage caused by the awning unit.

BASKETBALL BACKBOARDS

Basketball backboards are NOT ALLOWED within the Swan Point community.

BICYCLE, BOAT, AND LADDER STORAGE

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Bicycles, boats, and ladders must be hung as inconspicuously as possible below the upper deck.

Bicycles, boats, and ladders may not be stored:

• Below elevated lower decks
• On patios or lower decks
• On the front entrance porch
• On Swan Point common elements

BIRD FEEDERS and BIRD BATHS

Bird Feeders and bird baths are NOT ALLOWED. The seed spillage attracts rodents who can, and do, invade houses in search of food and/or nesting sites. Birdbath water provides a spawning ground for mosquitoes.

BORDER

See GARDENS & LANDSCAPING

BUILDING DECORATION

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

No personal accessories may be permanently mounted to the front, side or rear of the townhouse unit without prior approval by the Board of Directors.

CHILDREN’S TOYS

Children’s toys, strollers, etc. may not be stored on decks, patios, porches or anywhere on common elements. They must be stored in the unit.

CHIMINEA, FIRE PIT, FIRE RING

NOT PERMITTED.

CHIMNEYS AND FLUES

Chimneys and flues may not change architecturally from the original exterior design or location. The existing chimneys DO NOT meet with the Howard County fire codes to allow safe use and installation of wood burning stoves. Refer to Owen Brown Guidelines for further information.

CLOTHESLINES

NOT ALLOWED.

Installation of permanent clotheslines or other devices for drying laundry on decks, patios, porches or anywhere on common elements or limited common elements is specifically prohibited. Outside clothes dryers or clotheslines shall not be maintained by any common elements at any time. No clothing, laundry or the like shall be hung from any part of any condominium unit or upon any of the common elements or from or upon any balcony, deck, or patio. By-laws - Article X, Section 3 (j)

Maryland Code, Real Property Article, Section 14-130 does not apply to multi-unit condominia.

COMPOST BINS

APPLICATION REQUIRED.  SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

See Gardens & Landscaping.

CONTAINER GARDENS

See Gardens & Landscaping.

DECKS, PATIOS, SCREENED PORCHES AND BALCONIES

APPLICATION REQUIRED.  SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

All decks and/or patios, whether new, replacement or performing structural maintenance are included in this guideline. The application must include a site plan with a complete description and sketch of the deck or patio including the location, size, shape, materials, and preservative to be applied. The building permit must be displayed until construction is completed and the final inspection is approved. A copy of the final inspection certificate must be submitted to SPRAC when the construction is completed.

All deck and patio applications will be considered on an individual basis. SPRAC will examine the design for architectural uniformity and compatibility with adjacent properties, open space, and common elements.

The standard builder installed deck is 8’ (eight feet) in depth, measured from the rear wall of the home to the outside edge. Screened porches were builder installed on some end units only in Phase I, and balconies were builder installed on a few Phase I units. Both of these required modifications to the exterior wall to support the structure and, for the screened porch option, eliminated upper floor windows.

Decks exceeding 8’ (eight feet) in depth may be allowed on an exception basis, depending on the unit’s set-back from adjacent units and the proximity of the proposed deck to existing decks. In limited instances, a deck or patio may be allowed to exceed 12’ (twelve feet) if the set-back exceeds that length. The 12’ (twelve feet) maximum is to contain decks and patios in conformance with the definition of Limited Common Property.

The addition of screened porches and/or balconies to any unit is NOT permitted. Those units for which they were builder installed, require that the owner be solely responsible for maintenance, which must conform exactly to the builder’s specifications. Should an owner receive approval to remove either, approval will NOT later be granted for reinstallation.

Decks and patios must meet the following criteria:

• Deck and patio construction must conform to the current Howard County Building Codes. Permits from the county and required inspections by the county are the sole responsibility of the unit owner.
• Wood must be pressure treated left natural. A clear sealant may be applied to protect the wood. Wood may not be painted or stained.
• Rails, posts, pickets, balusters and surface boards must match in height and design to the other decks in the building. Planking must present a finished outside edge regardless of the direction of planking.
• Decks and patios may not extend past the limited common element. Decks over 30 inches above ground level must have railings.
• Decks and patios must be related in style to adjacent structures and shall be compatible in scale and size with the existing unit and building.
• No steps or exit doors or gates are permitted to or from an upper deck.
• Arbors and trellises are not allowed. Retractable sunshades may be allowed.
• Screened decks and/or balconies are allowed but only where builder installed. Maintenance of existing screened decks and/or balconies must stay consistent with original style and size.
• Carpeting on decks & patios is not allowed.
• Deck runoff from the upper deck needs to be channeled if the deck is sealed. This is to prevent water damage to the unit from the puddled water.
• The contractor’s insurance information and MHIC State-provided license number must be provided on all deck and patio applications.
• Contractors may not drive onto Swan Point common elements without prior approval from the board. The unit owner will be held responsible for repairing any damage that was made to the Swan Point common elements or Columbia Association open space.

Deck & Patio Styles and Materials

• Normal material is pressure treated natural wood. Evergrain Composite in cedar color is the only approved alternate material. Any exposed wood used as part of a composite construction must be wrapped with the same material as the composite. Other composite material will be considered on an individual basis by the Board.
• Balusters may be the full length of top rail to the deck or from the top rail to a support board that is a few inches above the deck surface. They must be attached to the outside of the deck structure.
• A screen covered upper deck is an option provided by the builder. Roofing on the cover must be identical to the roof shingles on the unit.
• Patio material may be alternate materials such as pavers, brick, stone or concrete.

Deck & Patio Maintenance

Any maintenance contractor must be insured and licensed by MHIC.

• APPLICATION REQUIRED applying all chemical deck sealant treatments i.e.; clear natural sealant. SPRAC approval only Decks and fences MUST be sealed/stained concurrently.

DOG HOUSES

Not Permitted.

DOORS (EXTERIOR)

APPLICATION REQUIRED.  SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Entrance Door 

All doors must be compatible in color and design to the builder installed specifications. Sidelight windows are considered a part of the door style and must be maintained with the same appearance. Door material may be metal, solid core wood or fiberglass. The door must have a finish that is consistent with the unit color specifications or paintable to match the color specification.

Phase 1 doors, as shown on the left side of the drawing, are solid with one or two sidelights.

Phase 2 doors, as shown on the right side of the drawing, are upper half windows with 3x3 grids and zero, one or two sidelights. If embedded grids are not colored to match the door then exterior grids are to be installed and painted to match the door.

Sidelights are required to match the builder installed sidelights. They must have divided light into three panes, dividing trim must be exterior mounted and painted to match trim color.

Screen/Storm Door

Full open panel or full view self-storing storm window is the only style door allowed.

Storm/screen doors must be painted to match the existing trim or the front door depending upon unit color specifications.

This is more restrictive than the Owen Brown covenants. Refer to the Owen Brown Guidelines for door diagrams.

Rear Doors (Sliders or other)

The preferred style is a slider door with sliding screens. French door styles are not the standard but can be approved per installation. An alternative to sliding screens is a self-storing screen. A non-standard alternative for a level having two sliders/swing doors is to replace one set of doors with windows, which may be approved per installation. Siding used to frame the new windows must match existing siding.

Mullions/muntins/grids, in white, are required for all doors in either a 3x5 or 3x6 grid arrangement (to match builder installed doors). All door styles must match for all rear doors on a unit. Doors must be white. Handles and locks may be white to match the doors or be polished or antique brass to match the light fixtures.

Balcony Doors

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approval.

Only available for units with builder-installed balconies. Must match builder’s door design in color & style.le.

DOOR HANDLES

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approval.

Replacement front door handles must be the same as, or similar in design to, the original builder installed door handles. Polished brass or antique brass is acceptable. All door hardware i.e.; brass kick plates, door knockers, door handles, locksets and front and rear light fixtures must be of like finish.

DOOR KNOCKERS AND DOOR BELLS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approval.

Door knockers and doorbells may be installed. Polished brass or antiqued brass is allowed. All door hardware i.e.; brass kick plates, door knockers, door handles, locksets, doorbells, front and rear light fixtures must be of like material. Doorbells that are plastic must be painted to match the surface where they are mounted.

EXHAUST VENTS

See Vents: Exhaust & Radon

FENCES

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approval.

Builder installed fences were 2 (two) sections at 6’ (six feet) each, conforming to the definition of Limited Common Elements as 12’ (twelve feet) measured from the rear wall of the unit.

In some cases, less than 12’ (twelve feet) of fencing was provided by the builder due to property line considerations and/or property access and/or transit requirements. Where this is the case, the limitation on the length of the privacy fence will be continued.

Those units built without privacy fencing MAY NOT install any fencing.

• Fences between adjacent owners are to be jointly maintained, who will equally bear all expenses for such maintenance unless the negligence of one such owner is the primary cause for damage to the fence, in which case that owner will pay the cost of replacing or repairing the fence. By-laws - Article VIII, Section 7.
• Fences may not extend in front of, or to the side of, any unit.
• Replacement of the rear privacy fences must match the existing “Shadow Box” / Board-on-Board fencing and be placed at the same location, and cannot exceed the present height of the existing fence or a length of 12’ (twelve feet). A lesser maximum will be enforced for builder installed fences of lesser length.
• Fences may be sealed/stained with neutral sealant or stain identical to that specified for decks. Decks and fences MUST be sealed/stained concurrently.
• Extending the length of the fence is NOT permitted.
• No other fencing is permitted on common elements or CA open space.

Rear fence connecting the privacy fences may be half height or full height, but must be of same “Shadow Box” style. Board size is 5’x4”x1” with 2”x4” spacer and 4”x4” end post. The choice to enclose the rear yard places all maintenance obligations within the enclosed area on the unit owner.

FIREWOOD

See WOODPILES

FLAGPOLE HOLDERS AND BRACKETS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approval.

A flag is required to be consistent with Federal and State statutes and Owen Brown architectural rules. Flagpole holders and brackets, must match the color of the attached surface, and may be attached to the unit or deck. Freestanding flagpoles are prohibited. All flags must be maintained in good repair. They may not obstruct pathways or impede the work of contractors.

FLOWER BEDS

See Gardens & Landscaping

FLOWER BOXES

Restricted to the upper deck and lower deck/patio. May not be mounted to front or side of the unit.

FRONT PORCHES & STEPS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approval. SPRAC approval for maintenance.

Unit owners are responsible for replacement and repair of front porch steps, a material is concrete only. The Association’s grounds maintenance does not include front steps. Front steps will be cleared of snow by the Association.

GARDENS & LANDSCAPING

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC approval. OBRAC approval may be required for some requests.

For all planting or removal of trees, shrubs, bushes, borders, flowerbeds, and installation of stepping stones on common elements. The application must include a drawing indicating the location, size, and description of the types of plants and materials to be used. Plantings may not impede egress to the side or rear of any unit. It should be understood that the unit owner is DONATING all plantings to the Association when plantings are common elements, even though the unit owner chooses to enjoy the choice and provide care for these plantings. All upkeep and maintenance are subject to approval and judgment by the Board of Directors. The Board may request additional maintenance from the unit owner or direct work to be done through an existing service contract with the Association to keep the flora in acceptable appearance.

The Grounds Committee is empowered by the Board to act as the resource for identifying desirable plants and reviewing landscape applications. In addition, the committee recommends actions on projects to maintain and improve the common elements of the Association.

Borders

Landscape timbers (pressure treated left natural), dark natural colored rocks or solid building brick compatible with the color of the house may enclose a garden area. Borders must be embedded in the ground to prevent displacement or hazardous conditions. They must be no higher than six (6) inches above ground level and kept in good repair.

Compost Bins

NOT PERMITTED.

Container Gardens

Container gardens are not permitted on common elements. Plantings in large containers (barrel halves, terracotta, wood or ceramic planters) are permitted on porches, steps or decks without an application. Containers must be wood (pressure treated left natural), terracotta or earth tone. Owners are responsible for maintaining container gardens.

Flower Beds

Application Required for new, enlarged, or differently configured beds as they are on common elements and affect the contracted cost of mowing, grooming, and maintenance. No application needed for the planting of annuals or perennials in a previously approved bed.

Grass

The Association contracts for all grass cutting. The unit owner CANNOT exclude any grass area in a landscape application from the service by the designated contractor. The grounds contract includes broadleaf weed control, over-seeding, aeration and fertilization as needed.

GARDENS & LANDSCAPING continued

It is the responsibility of the unit owner to water and cares for the grass in the areas in the front and rear of the unit. End units also have the responsibility for the side of the unit.

Hanging Planters, Planter Baskets, Planter Boxes

Hanging planters or baskets, no larger than 12” in diameter, may be attached to the front porch, upper or lower decks. Planter boxes may be attached to the upper or lower rear decks. Boxes must match the wood deck (pressure treated left natural) or be painted to match the house trim. Brackets should be unobtrusive.

Window boxes are prohibited.

Lawn Ornamentation

No windsocks, birdbaths, figurine, statues or other ornaments are permitted in the front, side or back of homes. Ornaments may be placed only in completely enclosed (fenced) decks or patios.

Mulching

The grounds contract includes mulching of foundation beds, trees, and landscaped areas.

Open Space

No planting, grooming or removal of the vegetation of CA Open Space is permitted. Violators are subject to a fine by CA. Unit owners may call CA with any reports of damage or needs that may be observed in the Open Space area, but under no circumstances may those areas be altered in any way except by CA Open Space personnel.

Pruning

Pruning of trees and shrubbery is included in the grounds contract. If the unit has an enclosed rear yard, then it is owner responsibility within the enclosed area.

RAIN BARRELS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

The Board will consider rain barrel applications on an individual basis. Rain barrel systems must be located within the privacy fences and may be used from April through September. As the rain barrel system alters the downspouts and run-off paths, installation and operation plans need to be provided during the application process.

TREE MAINTENANCE

All trees are under the maintenance care of the Association. There is a maintenance program that does focused work on approximately 1/3 of the property every year. If for some reason a tree is in need of maintenance, then notify the management agent about the tree. Unit owners

GARDENS & LANDSCAPING continued

may plant a new tree or a replacement tree with an approved application. The grounds committee maintains a list of unacceptable trees such as Bradford Pairs, Tulip Poplars or many fruit bearing trees.

VEGETABLE GARDENS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Gardens must be in rear limited common element and must not extend past the end of the privacy fence. They MUST be properly maintained at all times. After the growing season, all debris and plant stakes must be removed. Replanting, in the same location, does not require an additional application.

GRILLS AND BARBECUES

Grills and barbecues may be used at the rear of the house only. They must be stored on the upper deck or under the upper deck within the perimeter of the upper deck only. Permanently installed grills or fire-pits are prohibited. Propane tanks greater than 30 pounds are not allowed. Contact the Howard County Fire Department for the current laws regulating the use and storage of grills.

GUTTERS, DOWNSPOUTS, AND GUTTER GUARDS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approval.

Gutter and downspout replacement must match original builder installed color and design. The approved gutter and downspout color is Beaver Brown. Gutter guards will be approved per application based on aesthetics of system selected.

Gutter Screens – allowed without application, if they are not visible from street level.

HEAT PUMP

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC approval only if same location. SPRAC and OBRAC approval for location change.

Heat pumps are to be located in the rear of the unit and may not extend past the distance defined by the shorter privacy fence.

Heat pumps for end units may be relocated to the side of the unit and be placed as close as possible to the unit wall. It must then be screened with appropriate landscaping or fencing.

Recognizing that emergency replacement may be a priority, heat pumps may be replaced, with verbal approval, after submission of the application to SPRAC, but before final application approvals are signed and returned to the owner. However, if the heat pump is placed in a location inconsistent with the guidelines and/or the approved application, the owner will bear the cost of relocating the heat pump when directed by the board of directors

HOLIDAY DECORATIONS

Holiday decorations do not require an application; however, they may not be installed more than three weeks prior to the holiday and must be removed three weeks following the holiday.

HOT TUBS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Each application will receive individual consideration. Hot tubs may be placed on the lower deck only within the privacy fence area and ideally under the upper deck. They must be concealed by fencing and screening to afford privacy to the neighbors and exclude small children getting into the hot tub from the outside.

HOUSE NUMBERS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC approval.

It is the unit owner’s responsibility to maintain the house numbers. There is only one style, which is set by the board of directors to meet readability and reflectivity requirements; contact the management company for specifications and supplier(s). The number sign must be positioned in the area of the front door facing the street and must be visible at a 15’ (fifteen foot) distance. If mounted on the front door the numbers must be visible through any screen or storm door.

Application must specify location of mounting. If obtained from a supplier other than the one provided by the management agent, specifications and material sample(s) must be provided.

IN-HOME BUSINESS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC (ALL IHB) and OBRAC (all EXCEPT daycare) approvals.

In-Home businesses will be approved, or not, on a case-by-case basis; for a no-impact or family daycare center, such approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. The activity of the business may not impose on neighbors’ quiet enjoyment of their homes. It is the responsibility of the applicant to obtain and maintain in force any and all insurance relating to the operation of the business. The Association accepts no liability for any in-home business activity.

Approval is valid for one year only. Annual reapplication is required. Owen Brown Architectural Guidelines should be consulted for possible additional restrictions.

No in-home business that involves direct retail sales, uses external signage, uses exterior storage for materials, increases foot or vehicle traffic, or produces any external physical indicators that a business is located at the unit’s address shall be conducted in a unit.

By-Laws - Article X, Section 1 and Section 3 state that the primary use of all units is for private residential purposes.

INSURANCE

The Maryland Condominium Act and the Swan Point By-laws require the condominium maintain a master insurance policy to cover each building, including the individual unit structure, against fire and property damage. By-laws - Article VIII, Section 1 (b).

The master policy does not insure personal property or betterments and improvements (e.g. new windows, flooring, cabinets, appliances) when considering full replacement cost. Unit owners are required to obtain individual homeowner’s H06 insurance to cover liability and casualty losses.

The unit owner is responsible for the deductible amount of the association’s insurance policy in effect. By-Laws - Article VII, Section 4. If there is more than one unit in the insurance claim, the deductible will be divided evenly among all units participating in the claim.

KICK PLATES

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC approval.

Brass kick plates may be installed at the base of front doors. Polished brass or antiqued brass kick plates are allowed. All door hardware i.e. kick plates, door knockers, door handles, locksets, doorbells, front and rear light fixtures must be of like material.

LANDSCAPING

See Hardens & Landscaping

LAWN ORNAMENTATION

Not permitted in the front, side or back of homes. Ornaments may be placed only in completely enclosed (fenced) decks or patios. See Gardens & Landscaping.

LIGHTING

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approval.

A picture is required for the application when replacing any exterior light fixture or installation of security lights. Replacement lights must have a polished or antiqued brass finish and be top mounted and meet the following criteria:

• All light fixtures and door hardware i.e. kick plates, door knockers, door handles, locksets, and doorbells must be of like material.
• Security lights may be mounted on the rear deck and at the side of end units. They should be directed as to not shine into neighbors’ back area or windows.
• NO exterior lighting, other than the attached fixtures, is permitted, e.g. no garden lighting, no walkway lighting, no Malibu lights, or the like are allowed.

MAINTENANCE

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC (limited) approval.

All exterior refurbishment including, but not limited to: replacing siding, replacing roofing, painting the wood trim of house, painting front door, and or replacing lighting.

Power washing does not require an application. Sealing of decks requires an application. Renovations must adhere to the approved individual unit specifications. The unit specifications were given to each homeowner at settlement. Additional copies are given to unit owners with each SPRAC walkthrough letter. This information may also be obtained from the SPRAC chairperson(s).

Contractors may not drive onto Swan Point common elements and Columbia Association open space. The unit owner will be held responsible for repairing any damage made to the common elements.Front porches, decks, and patios may not be used for storage of any kind except where specifically defined. No unreasonable or unsightly accumulation of stored materials, new or used building materials, or trash of any kind shall be permitted within any condominium unit or upon any common elements. By-laws - Article X, Section 3 (i).

Outside Water

Part of normal maintenance and homeowner responsibility is turning off the outside water for the winter season to avoid water lines freezing and bursting. The water should be shut off at the source for both front and rear spigots, then those spigots should be opened and the inside bleeder valve opened to allow the line to drain completely. The process should be reversed when warm weather returns to turn on the outside water.

MULCHING

See Gardens & Landscaping

NEWSPAPERS

The Columbia Flier arrives weekly on Thursday (it is NOT optional). The unit owner is responsible for removing it from the common elements and disposing of it properly.

If you will not be at home for any delivery, please stop your subscription or ask a neighbor to remove it for you. An accumulation of newspapers is an announcement that the unit is not occupied and invites break-ins or attempts.

The recycling collection will NOT remove loose papers left at the curbs.

NOISE

No excessive noise, obnoxious activity or behavior shall be carried on within any condominium unit or on condominium property which may become an annoyance to the neighbors or which may interfere with the peaceful use and enjoyment of their unit. Consult the Howard County noise ordinance for more information.

PAINTING AND SEALING

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC approval for all; OBRAC approvals (color change only).

• Paint color must adhere to the individual unit specifications.
• Martin Senour manufactures the original paint colors for Phase 1 units as the “Williamsburg Collection”. Pratt and Lambert also manufactures the same colors under “Williamsburg Collection”. McCormick manufactures the original paint colors for Phase 2 units.
• Clear natural wood sealants are allowed on decks and fences.
• SPRAC maintains sample of all original colors.
• Decks and fences MAY NOT be painted or stained.

PARKING

Parking is private and is provided for residents only based on approximately two (2) vehicles per unit and a limited number of additional spaces for guests. All spaces at the fronts of buildings are exclusively for use of residents. A small number of overflow spaces are provided for guests and vehicles beyond the second per unit. These are primarily at the rear or sides of the buildings and at the islands in the court areas. Guests MAY NOT park at the front of the buildings at any time, nor may any vehicle beyond the second per unit. Except during snow events (when a Snow Parking Policy is in effect) curb areas not marked as fire lanes may be used for parking. Notice will be provided prior to towing and the Board may impose fines for repeat offenses.

Parked vehicles may not overhang or obstruct sidewalks and may not obstruct roadways through the community. Parking spaces are designed for vehicles that do not exceed 18’ (eighteen feet) in length end-to-end, including hitches, racks, or other attached items. Vehicles exceeding this length (e.g. many full-size trucks, especially those with extended cab or extended bed) may only park in spaces that allow the excess length to overhang grass areas.

Parking is for passenger vehicles only, and they must display current registration tags (front and rear), be operable and in regular use. Commercial vehicles* are allowed only during the day while work is being performed for a resident and may not be parked overnight on the property. No vehicles may be stored on the property. No trucks, boats, trailers, campers, mobile homes, or other similar vehicle, may be parked on the property at any time [see By-laws - Article X, Section 3, (g)].

Vehicles not in regular use must be stored at a location off the property. Inoperable and/or junk vehicles may not be on the property at any time.

Vehicles may not be operated or stored in any place other than the roads and parking areas. No vehicle may traverse or park on unpaved areas, sidewalks, patios or rear yards. No vehicle with a motor may be stored inside a unit.

Handicapped and Fire Lane restrictions are enforced by Howard County Police.

There is NO CHARGING capability for electric vehicles provided in the community, but is under consideration as a possible future addition.

* COMMERCIAL VEHICLE DEFINITION: Any vehicle displaying advertising for a business (other than a bumper sticker); any vehicle with more than two (2) wheels on any axle; any pick-up or other type of truck with rack(s) or other superstructure for transporting equipment or with boxes installed (for carrying equipment or tools) that exceed the height of the bed; any vehicle with license plates bearing the words: COMMERCIAL, TRUCK, BUS, HIRE, FARM, or any other designation of a vehicle classification other than “A” or “D” or “M” as defined in the Transportation Article of the Maryland Code.

PATIOS & WALKWAYS

See Decks & Patios (for Patios) and Gardens & Landscaping (for Walkways).

PELLET STOVES

APPLICATION REQUIRED. OBRAC and BOARD approvals.

Due to the high amount of heat in the venting system, pellet stove requests must be reviewed and approved by the Board.

Bare metal ducting is not allowed. Exhaust vents must be painted to match surface where mounted, or match another color on the unit.

PET DOOR

NOT ALLOWED. A pet door will allow a pet to be unleashed and unsupervised, which is in violation of Howard County Animal Control ordinances and Swan Point rules.

Wildlife in the area such as raccoons, foxes, rodents, or skunks can use the door to enter the unit in search of food or nesting sites.

PETS

All domestic pets shall be leashed and accompanied while on the common elements of the condominium property. Pets shall not be allowed to run loose, be unsupervised or leashed to any stationary object on the common elements.

There shall be no commercial breeding, boarding and/or raising of any animals within any condominium unit.

No pet shall create a nuisance as governed by Howard County’s animal control laws. All animal excrement must be removed immediately and disposed of properly. It is the unit owner’s responsibility to repair any damage caused by their pet.

The Board of Directors shall have the right to declare any pet a nuisance and to order any person whose pet is a nuisance to remove such pet from the premises after affording the right to a hearing to the unit owner affected. By-laws - Article X, Section 3 (e).

Play Equipment

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Limited play equipment is allowed only within completely enclosed Limited Common Elements. As the design concept of Columbia includes play equipment on open space, Swan Point design does not provide play space on the common elements.

POOLS & PONDS

In-ground or permanently installed above ground pools or ponds are prohibited. Children’s wading pools are allowed on enclosed decks or patios only. They must be emptied of water by the end of each day and totally removed when the swimming season is over.

PORCHES & PORTICOS

See Front Porches & Steps

PRIVACY SCREENING

APPLICATIONS REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Each application will be considered individually. Shadow box fencing and lattice designs have been previously approved. Sections of pre-made fencing may be purchased if desired. Height and length will be considered per the unit’s needs, and in context of the entire building’s exterior design.

PROPANE TANKS

See Grills & Barbecues.

PRUNNING

See Gardens & Landscaping.

RAILING

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Replacement or addition of railings for front entrance must be black and may be either wrought iron or aluminum. Rear entrance rails are to be of the same material as the deck or patio.

RAIN BARRELS

See Gardens & Landscaping.

RENTAL PROPERTIES

No portion other than the entire townhouse unit shall be leased for any period. By-laws - Article X, Section 2.

Every dwelling or dwelling unit in Howard County which is not occupied solely by the owner or owner’s immediate family must be licensed. Howard County licenses are issued for a two year period. A license is also required if more than one boarder, roomer or renter occupies the dwelling with the owner or the owner’s immediate family member.

Out-of-state owners must designate a local agent. Owners/agents must notify Howard County if the property is sold, becomes unoccupied, or is re-occupied by the owner during the term of the license. Additionally, both Swan Point and Howard County must be notified of Management Company and/or Agent changes made by the owner.

The Association requires an addendum, which the unit owner must attach to the lease. The addendum notifies the tenant that they are responsible for complying with Swan Point By-Law and Guidelines, and for payment of rent to the Association if the owner becomes delinquent in payment of assessments (rents received by the Association in excess of assessments in arrears will be paid to the owner).

The owner must furnish the Condominium Association’s Management Agent a copy of the lease and lease addendum, the owner’s mailing address, agent’s contact information, an emergency telephone number and the tenant’s name and telephone number. All leases shall be subject to the terms of the Rules and Regulations, the Declaration and the By-laws. Unit owners are responsible and liable for violations caused by any person occupying or visiting their unit.

ROOF REPLACEMENT & REPAIR

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Roofs are the unit owner’s responsibility. The unit specifications are made available to each homeowner at settlement. Certainteed manufactures the approved shingles. Shingle color is specific by unit and it must be included on the exterior alteration application. All soffit trims must match the builder installed style and color. A roofing sample or brochure with manufacturer’s specifications must be included with the application.

Realizing that roof repair may be an emergency situation, work may progress, if necessary, while the application is being approved. In that case, if the wrong material is used, then the unit owner will correct the roofing at their cost upon receiving notice from the board of directors.

SCREENING

See Privacy Screening.

SCREENS

See Windows and/or Doors.

SHEDS AND OTHER OUTBUILDINGS

NOT ALLOWED. The Swan Point By-laws prohibit outbuildings. An outbuilding is considered to be any structure, permanent or temporary, erected outside of a condominium unit, including, but not limited to, sheds, storage bins, greenhouses, doghouses and gazebos.

No structure of a temporary character, trailer, tent, shack, barn or other outbuilding shall be maintained upon any common elements at any time. By-laws- Article X, Section 3 (j).

Exception: See Temporary Storage Units.

SHUTTERS

Shutters are required on all units, front and side, and must be maintained in good condition. Shutters must be painted to match trim color. If trim coil/sheathing is applied to trim, the trim paint color must match the trim coil and shutters must also be painted to match the trim coil.

SIDING REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC approval (all) and OBRAC approval (color change only).

The Architectural Committee maintains a database of the siding style and color for each unit and all repairs and replacement must conform to that standard. A siding sample must be included with the application.

Siding repair: The repair of aluminum or vinyl siding will be constrained to using like material. The replacement materials must match the siding that is currently installed on the unit in color, texture, and size (double 4 or double 5 specific by building). If matching materials are unavailable, the siding on the entire unit must be replaced.

Siding replacement: A unit owner may elect to replace the aluminum siding with vinyl siding at any time.

All sides of the unit must be replaced concurrently. The Board may grant exceptions to this requirement.

SIGNS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

All signs are prohibited unless approved by the Board of Directors. By-laws - Article X, Section 3, (f). To be considered for approval, all Owen Brown guidelines apply with the following additions:

• Signs must be placed in a mulched bed at the front of the unit. Signs may not be placed at the side or rear of the unit.
• A sign may not exceed twenty-four (24) inches when measured from the ground to the top of the sign.
• No sign may be attached to any exterior portion of the home, deck, deck support, fencing, or door casing.
• Window decals may be placed on windows without an architectural application

Exceptions:

• Temporary signs advertising homes for sale may be placed in front mulched garden beds without an application. The signs must be double spiked and no greater than 25” wide and 32” high. They must be removed immediately after the sale of the property. Sold and Under Contract signs are not permitted by Owen Brown.
• Political signs may be displayed from within the unit or on the porch or mulch beds two weeks prior to the election. They are to be removed within 24 hours following the election.

SKYLIGHTS & LIGHT TUNNELS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

All Owen Brown guidelines apply with the additional restriction that skylights and light tunnels may be installed on the rear of the unit only. Each application will be considered individually. A maximum of two (2) may be allowed.

SIFFITS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPARC and OBRAC approvals.

All soffits must be white and match the builder installed style.

SOLAR COLLECTOR SYSTEM

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Owen Brown guidelines are the starting point for application review and approval. Each application will be considered individually. Installation must be on the rear of the unit only.

SOLICITING

Soliciting is not allowed in the Swan Point community.

No nuisances shall be permitted within the condominium project, nor shall any practice be permitted which is or becomes a source of annoyance to the members or which interferes with the peaceful use and possession thereof by the members. By-laws - Article X, Section 3 (a).

TEMPORARY STORAGE UNITS

One (1) pod may be placed within the limits of a single parking space for weekends only, delivery on Friday and removal on Monday. Multiple pods are NOT allowed. The pod may NOT remain on the premises for longer than 72 hours.

Pods may not block fire lanes or handicapped parking spaces and may not impede traffic flow. As a courtesy to unit neighbors, consider the pod like a visitor and park one vehicle in the overflow areas.

TEMPORARY STRUCTURES

Not permitted.

This includes children’s playhouses, tents, and the like.

TRASH AND RECYCLE COLLECTION

Trash and recyclable items are collected weekly and may not be put out before 6 P.M. the night prior to collection. Receptacles must be reclaimed no later than 6 P.M. the day of the collection and stored at the rear of, or inside, the unit.

Trash and recycling MUST be packaged according to Howard County requirements. Items left out the night before the collection MUST be able to withstand scavenging animals. The collection crew will NOT retrieve and remove loose materials left at the curbs.

All trash containers stored outside the unit must be at the rear of the unit and must be sufficiently substantial to withstand the efforts of foraging animals.

Trash and recyclable items MUST NOT be placed adjacent to, or in any way obstruct, mail boxes or fire hydrants.

Information about collection schedules may be found on the Howard County Government web site. Howard County uses a “slide” schedule for holidays – if a collection day falls on a holiday, all collections for the week slide to the next day.

TREE MAINTENANCE

Usually an Association responsibility. See Gardens & Landscaping.

TREE PLANTING or REMOVAL

Usually an Association responsibility. See Gardens & Landscaping.

TRIM(Unit)

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC (color change only) approvals.

The Architectural Committee maintains a list of approved trim colors that are specific to each unit. All trim must be ONLY the single approved color.

Unit owners may elect to sheath trim. A trim coil sample must be included with the application. Aluminum or vinyl trim coil may be used. Smooth surface trim coil must be used. Any unsheathed trim must be painted to match the trim coil, including shutters, door surrounds, porch posts, etc.

USE OF PROPERTY

No part of the common elements shall be used for the purposes of yard sales or any other commercial activity. Units are designated as residential use only, operating a business of any sort within the unit requires an application (see In-Home Business).

UTILITY REPAIRS AND INSTALLATION

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC approvals.

Any major excavation in the vicinity of any unit, emergency repairs or replacement of heat pumps, polybutylene pipes, and other emergency situations may be made concurrent with application approval process.

Contact Miss Utility at 1-800/257-7777 to mark utility locations before beginning excavation. Contractors may not drive onto Swan Point and Columbia Association property without prior approval. The unit owner will be held responsible for repairing any damage that was made by the contractor.

VEGETABLE GARDENS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Gardens must be in rear limited common element and must not extend past the end of the privacy fence. They MUST be properly maintained at all times. After the growing season, all debris and plant stakes must be removed. Replanting, in the same location, does not require an additional application.

VEHICLES

See PARKING for additional information

Illegally parked, improperly registered, unauthorized, and inoperable vehicles are subject to towing at the vehicle owner’s expense.

No junk vehicles or other on which current registration plates are not displayed, trailer, truck, camper, camp truck, house trailer, boat, or the like shall be kept upon any of the general common elements, nor shall the repair or extraordinary maintenance of automobiles be carried out on any of the common elements or within or upon any condominium unit. By-laws - Article X, Section 3, (g).

Vehicles may not be operated on, transported across, or stored on any common elements other than designated parking spaces and the roadway.

CAR COVERS may be used while vehicles are on the property. They must be fitted to the vehicle. Tarpaulins and the like may NOT be used as car covers. Owners using car covers must accept that the portion of the cover over the license plate may be lifted at any time to check the vehicle registration and ensure that it is current.

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE of an extraordinary nature is prohibited. This includes oil change, radiator flush, work under the vehicle, raising the vehicle with ramps, painting and/or sanding, and other like types of repairs. Maintenance that is permitted is washing and waxing, cleaning glass, topping off fluids, changing a flat tire, replacing windshield wipers and other similar, and minimal, types of work.

VENTS: EXHAUST AND RADON

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Exhaust and radon vents must be painted to match the color of the area (house siding or foundation) which is behind them.

WALKWAYS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Walkways are allowed within fenced patio or non-fenced patios with Swan Point Board approval. Homeowners must include information regarding walkway materials, or samples, with the application. Lead walks are the section between the curb and the first step at the unit front entrance. The Association maintains that section for snow removal and repair.

WINDOWS

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

Windows may not be replaced individually, except one-of-a-kind windows. An entire side of the house must be replaced concurrently at a minimum.

Replacement windows or the installation of windows in a new location will require application review. Provide manufacturer’s brochures for the windows with the application. Windows must match the builder installed window design. Andersen manufactured the builder installed windows in Phase 2.

New windows must be white on the outside. The space filler must be painted or colored to match the unit’s specified trim color.

Windows must have muntins (grids or pane dividers). Window frames may be aluminum, vinyl or fiberglass. Replacement of a single window will be considered if the replacement is an exact part number match to the existing window.

Application is not required for the replacement of broken glass or screens.

Window Muntins

Window mullions, also referred to as grids or pane dividers, may not be removed from any townhouse windows. They are a consistent characteristic of the unit in the same manner as paint color, door design, light fixture design, etc.

Window Screens

Window screens must not be removed from any residence. The architectural continuity of the community may be affected if screens are removed. Screens are full-coverage or half-coverage, specific to the Phase and unit. This may be changed with approval if the change is harmonious with adjacent units.

WOODPILES

APPLICATION REQUIRED. SPRAC and OBRAC approvals.

The following guidelines must be met for long-term wood storage (summer or year round):

• Woodpiles must be located within the privacy fence and no closer than 18” to the rear house foundation.
• Wood must be stored away from the house (preferably along privacy fences) to prevent damage to siding and to prevent termites from entering the house unnoticed.
• Woodpiles should not be readily visible from the street or a neighbor’s view.
• Stacking is not permitted on the front porch, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, or CA open space.
• The storage of more than one cord of wood is prohibited.

The following guidelines must be met for short-term wood storage (September 15-April 30):

• Firewood may be stored on the front porch or the upper rear deck only during the fall and winter seasons (September 15 – April 30).
• Firewood must be stored in a wood cradle.

NOTE: The Columbia Association does not permit use of open space for the purpose of wood storage or any other personal use. Violators will be cited and FINED.