SIRE POLICY REGARDING TREES AND LARGE VEGETATION
(Excerpt from CC&Rs Article XIII Section 15)
1. Tree Selection - When planting, homeowners must:
- Consider the eventual size of the tree, and be willing to keep it trimmed to roof height, so that it does not materially interfere with the neighbors' scenic views. Trimming is to be accomplished at the approved time of year for the specific tree.
- Select locations which will not negatively affect walls, foundations or the scenic views of their neighbors.
- Homeowners are encouraged to choose low-water usage, desert-adapted trees which will thrive in Zone 4.
2. Management of Trees
- All trees and other vegetation planted in any residential lot shall be kept trimmed to a height that will not materially interfere with the scenic views of neighbors nor hinder the neighbors' sunlight source.
- Palm trees must be trimmed of dead fronds each year by June 1, due to potential fire hazards from lightning strikes during the monsoon season, and potential physical injuries due to falling palm fronds. If the owner does not comply, the palms will be trimmed by a licensed and bonded contractor, with costs to be paid by the homeowner.
- S.I.R.E. HOA has no jurisdiction of trees/vegetation on golf course property.
3. Conflicts Between Neighbors Due to Scenic View Obstructions
- Being members of a Homeowners Association requires that residents work together to preserve scenic views and to maintain home values. Neighbors are urged to work together to find amicable solutions.
- When owners are unable to find a common solution of a scenic view obscurement issue on a homeowners' property, an owner may contact the ARC to help determine an appropriate solution. Factors to be considered by the Committee include:
-The height and width of the tree or vegetation and its location in relation to the neighbors' property,
-A determination of the scenic view panorama as to what degree the scenic view has been obstructed,
-Whether the offending neighbor made a reasonable effort to satisfy the complaining neighbor.
-If a viable solution is not reached with the help of the ARC, a written complaint may be submitted to the SIRE Board of Directors.
4. Obscurements That Occur in Common Areas
- Homeowners should contact the Common Area Maintenance Chair
- The process as outlined in Section 3.b) and c) of the CC&Rs also applies to the Common Areas.
5. Board Action Concerning a Written Complaint
- The Board, upon receipt of a written complaint, will review the pertinent information from the homeowner and the ARC/Common Area Chair, including unresolved issues regarding scenic view obstructions, and the Committees' recommendations.
- The goal of the investigation is to satisfactorily resolve the issue at the lowest level possible. The best outcome, of course, is for the property owners to agree to an equitable resolution before contacting the Board.
- Upon examination of all factors, the Board will issue a written report of its findings. The Board will also deliver a letter describing the finding to the property owner. If remedial action is needed, the letter will outline the problem and steps needed to correct it. The offending property owner may request a meeting with the Board or its designated representative to challenge the finding. The Board, at its discretion, reserves the right to render a final decision.