THE ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

(ARC)

HANDBOOK

FOR RV LOT AND MANUFACTURED HOME OWNERS

REVISED: September 18, 2019

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Contents WELCOME ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 3

SOME THINGS TO KNOW........................................................................................................................................................... 4

GRASS ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 4

PLANTS THAT LIKE THE SUN .............................................................................................................................................. 5

PLANTS THAT LIKE SHADE .................................................................................................................................................. 5

PROBLEMATIC PLANTS ......................................................................................................................................................... 5

TREES ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

SOME NATIVE FLORIDA TREES/PALMS SUITABLE FOR CAREFREE LOT SIZES ..................................................... 7

DRAINAGE AND OUR LAKES ............................................................................................................................................... 8

TREE TRIMMING (See C&R 8.10) ........................................................................................................................................... 8

THREE-FOOT AREA ABUTTING THE CURB, COMMON GROUND AND CONSERVATION AREAS ........................ 9

ROCB/ARC REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................................................................... 10

BOATS/CANOES/KAYAKS and their trailers ........................................................................................................................ 10

BRICK SKIRTING – HOUSE (See C&R 8.10.1.2) ................................................................................................................. 10

CONCRETE/PAVERS (See Rules & Regulations 2.2) ............................................................................................................ 10

DRIVEWAYS (See C&R 8.18) ................................................................................................................................................ 10

LANDSCAPING (See C&R 8.10 and 8.19) ............................................................................................................................. 11

NEW CONSTRUCTION .......................................................................................................................................................... 12

OPENINGS IN HOUSE SKIRTING (See Rules & Regulations 2.1) ....................................................................................... 13

PET ENCLOSURES (See Rules & Regulations 2.10) .............................................................................................................. 14

PRIVACY SCREENING FOR RV LOTS (See Rules & Regulations 2.9 and C&R 8.10.1) ................................................... 14

TEMPORARY RAMPS ............................................................................................................................................................ 14

HOUSE STEPS ......................................................................................................................................................................... 15

RV STEPS ................................................................................................................................................................................. 15

SHEDS ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 17

SOUND BARRIERS (See Rules & Regulations 2.11) ............................................................................................................. 17

TRELLIS (See Rules & Regulations 2.11 and C&R 8.10.1) .................................................................................................... 18

HELP IS ON THE WAY .............................................................................................................................................................. 19

ARC REVIEW FORM IS NOT NECESSARY FOR THE FOLLOWING PROJECTS: ......................................................... 20

THE ARC REVIEW PROCESS ............................................................................................................................................... 21

SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ....................................................................................................................... 22

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WELCOME

The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) welcomes you to the Resort on Carefree Boulevard (ROCB). We are glad you are

here and we would like to share what ARC is all about. We trust this handbook will help you understand our responsibilities

to you and your corresponding responsibilities as a member of the community.

First, The ARC is an advisory committee of the Board of Administration (BoA). Our responsibilities are clearly defined in the

Covenants and Restrictions (the C&Rs). The definition of Architectural Review is stated in C&R

3.1.2:

Owner's plans including but not limited to site plans and remodeling plans for improvements on, alterations to, and

landscaping of Lots and improvements thereon, as well as additions, repair or restoration thereof, be reviewed and

approved.

The ARC is assigned to review and approve plans for all structures, the exterior of your dwelling, shed, driveway and/or

landscaping. So, you might ask, how does ARC decide what to approve? If you look at the review process in this handbook

and the Covenants and Restrictions (section 8.10), they describe the process that ARC is required to use to review plans. All of

section 8, from 8.1 through 8.29, provides guidelines for property owners to use when planning. It is important for all of us to

familiarize ourselves with the Covenants and Restrictions and ROCB Rules and Regulations located on the Carefree website

(carefreecommunity.com) and to understand their importance in keeping Carefree beautiful.

So, what do you need to do when planning any changes to the exterior of your building or your landscaping? In the Library at

the Clubhouse, on the Carefree website (carefreecommunity.com), and in this booklet, you will find ARC request forms.

Complete a form and attach a copy of your most recent property survey with your requested change indicated on the survey.

If you do not have a survey, you must include a detailed drawing of the property showing lot lines. Please be sure to

include measurements from the requested change to your property lines. Please show the location of the street.

Completed forms must be submitted by 9:00 a.m. on the Thursday before the meeting at which they will be reviewed. Please

check the Carefree calendar for exact meeting dates. When your project is completed, please notify the Management.

When submitting an ARC form, The ARC committee may have questions about your project; therefore, you are encouraged to

attend the meeting. The ARC wants you to know that we are here to help you. When the opportunity arises we make every

attempt to take the initiative and be pro-active by heading off problems before they happen. Helping to keep the community

informed is one way we like to do that.

In the event of an emergency, submission of an ARC form and a copy of the permit is still necessary, but work may begin

before ARC approval is obtained. An emergency is defined as a health, safety or property damage where the waiting period

for the ARC process will exacerbate the issue. Examples would be damage to roof, window or air-conditioning. Emergency

approval is granted by a member of Management. In the event an emergency is denied, home owners may apply for an

exception by submitting the request to the ARC Committee. In the event of an exception, the request will be reviewed by

ARC on a case by case basis. All decisions may be appealed to the BoA within 10 days of receipt of decision.

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SOME THINGS TO KNOW

GRASS

Bahia grass is the common and preferred grass used for lawn at Carefree. Bahia withstands drought conditions quite well

because it develops a deep root system. Therefore, it is better to give it a deep watering. Frequent low watering feeds the

weeds more than deep watering. During the rainy season little if any watering is needed. Lee County watering restrictions

must be followed.

Rake your Bahia in early spring to clean it and stimulate new growth. Raking is not necessary in the fall. Newly sodded lawns

should not be raked the first spring.

Grasses such as St. Augustine, Floratam or Zoysia are discouraged as they have rhizomes (lateral shoots/runners) that grow

into the conservation areas and must be removed, incurring an added expense for our community. All sod selections must be

approved by ARC.

WHEN CAN I WATER

ROVED IRRIGA

Odd-Numbered Address (ending in Wednesdays and/or Saturdays Midnight to 9 a.m. and/or 5 p.m.

1,3,5,7,9) to midnight

Even-Numbered Address (ending in

0,2,4,6,8) / No Address

Thursdays and/or Sundays Midnight to 9 a.m. and/or 5 p.m.

to midnight

No irrigation allowed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or any time Mondays, Tuesdays or Fridays.

TIOES

. OR ANY TIME MONDAYS, TUESDAYS OR FRIDAYS.

PLANTS

There are only three ways your plants can die: insects, diseases, and physical or environmental action. A few examples are:

1) Insects: Suckers such as scale, aphids, mealy bugs, white fly and thrips. Chewers such as grasshoppers, caterpillars,

cutworms, bagworms and beetles. Others such as leaf miners, spider mites, bark beetles, slugs, snails and nematodes.

2) Diseases: leaf spot, mildew, scab, fruit rot and butt rot.

3) Physical or environmental action: drought, over watering, fertilizer burn, nutrient deficiency, dog damage, planted too

deep or too shallow, extreme temperature changes, and damage by other plants or animals.

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Chemical products may help with plants that are not thriving. However, biological pest controls, bio-fungicide and organic

herbicides are effective against targeted insects, disease and weeds, and are nontoxic to humans, pets, wildlife and beneficial

insects. These are readily available at garden supply stores and nurseries.

In addition, judicious use of fertilizer may be used, but Lee County restricts when and what kind is allowable. Use of fertilizer

containing phosphorus and/or nitrogen is not permitted from June 1 through September 30. Other restrictions apply, and

the complete ordinance can be found at leegov.com/naturalresources/homeandyardcare.

A great resource for more information on plants and plant care is the University of Florida Extension Office at

solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/

PLANTS THAT LIKE THE SUN

Generally speaking, the following plants prefer sunny areas: most palms, evergreens, cacti, fruit trees, Hibiscus, roses,

Powder Puff, Plumbago, Jasmine, annuals, Coco Plum shrub, Firebush shrub, Thryallis bush, Ixora, Viburnum, Allamanda,

Bougainvillea, Pampas grass, African iris and many more. Full sun in Florida is considered 3 – 4 hours per day.

PLANTS THAT LIKE SHADE

Large leaf Philodendrons, Azaleas, caladium, bromeliads, orchids, most ground covers, Dracaena, Ti plant, Wandering Jew

(partial shade), Artillery Fern, Ginger and many more.

TO AVOID FUTURE PROBLEMS IN PLANTINGS

Leave ample spacing between plants to allow for size at maturity.

Fort Myers is in zone 10A, low temps are usually about 35-40 degrees. Full sun in Florida is considered 3 – 4 hours per day.

Rainfall in Florida averages 50-60 inches annually.

PROBLEMATIC PLANTS

(Trees, Shrubs, Grasses, etc.)

Invasive plants are defined as plants introduced from outside Florida’s native range which have expanded into natural areas

and displaced or disrupted native species.

A few of the invasive plants that destroy native habitat, which are banned by the State of Florida, include Australian Pine,

Carrotwood, Brazilian Pepper and Melaleuca. Information on invasive plants can be found at fleppc.org/list/list.htm. Be

aware both Category I and II invasive plants are prohibited.

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Water seeking plants have aggressive root systems that can break into water and sewer pipes as well as uproot sidewalks,

house foundations and driveways. Examples are any type of Fichus, Rubber Plant or Cuban Laurel.

Giant Scheffleras and rubber trees are fast growing trees that in a few years will produce roots that break up concrete and

foundations.

Norfolk Pine are trees that may grow to be 60 feet tall and in times of high winds the tops can snap off and become

dangerous flying missiles.

Fruit Trees – Many delicious varieties of fruit may be grown in our warm climate but maintenance is required as dropped fruit

attracts rodents.

Grasses such as St. Augustine or Zoysia are discouraged as they have rhizomes (lateral shoots/runners) that grow into the

conservation areas and must be removed incurring an added expense for our community

Always find out from a reliable source the plant's mature size, its landscape use, care and problems common to the particular

plant.

TREES

All removal and/or planting of trees requires ARC approval. (See C&R 8.10). Removal requires stump to be ground or cut to

ground level. If you remove a non-native tree, you are encouraged to replace it but replacement is not required unless you

need a tree to meet the minimum landscape requirements. We encourage you to use native trees for replacement. The

minimum requirements are at least 1(one) native tree plus 1(one) palm and/or 3(three) bushes. If you remove a native tree

you must replace it with a native tree and the replacement tree must be a minimum size of 5 (five) feet in height from the

ground with a canopy of 2 (two) feet.

In order to protect the Carefree Development Plan tree requirements with Lee County, removal of a tree that may be on

common ground or in conservation area will not be approved without a survey or original survey stake being found.

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INVASIVE PLANTS/TREES

Below is a sample list of invasive plants/trees, which are commonly sold locally:

Plants

• Mexican Petunia

• Lantana

• Asparagus Fern

• Mother in law tongue

• Surinam Cherry

•

Trees

Water Hyacinth

• Queen Palm

• Guava

• Bottle Brush

• Schefflera

• Non-Clumping Bamboo

Owners are responsible for determining that new plants and bushes are not on the invasive plant list.

Owners will be expected to immediately remove any plant determined to be invasive. (See Rules & Regulations 2.6)

Review the following link for more detailed information. fleppc.org/list/list.htm

SOME NATIVE FLORIDA TREES/PALMS SUITABLE FOR CAREFREE LOT SIZES

NATIVE TREES *Trees with sharp thorns

Acasia, Sweet (Acacia farnesiana)* Lignum Vitae (Guaiacum sanctum)

Buttonwood, Green (Conocarpus erectus) Pidgeon-Plum (Cocoloba diversifolia)

Buttonwood, Silver (Conocarpus erectus) Pitch-Apple (Clusia rosea)

Cedar, Southern Red (Junipera virginiana) Satin Leaf (Chrysophyllum oliviformer)

Cherry Laurel (Prunus caroliniana) Stopper, Red (Eugenia rhombea)

Holly, Dahoon (Ilex cassine) Stopper, Redberry (Eugenia confuse)

Holly, East Palatka (Ilex X attenuate) Stopper, Simpson’s (Eugenia foetida)

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Holly, Youpon (Ilex vomitoria) Stopper, Spanish (Eugenia foetida)

Geiger Tree, Orange (Cordia sebestena) Wild Lime (Zanthorcylum fagara)*

Joewood (Jacquinia keyensis) Willow, Bustic (Sideroxylon)

NATIVE PALMS*

Buccaneer (Pseudophoenix sargentii) Paurotis (Acoelorrhaphe wrightii)

Cabbage (Sabal palmetto) Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)

Dwarf Palmetto (Sabal minor) Scrub Palmetto (Sabal etonia)

Florida Thatch (Thrinax radiate) Silver (Coccothrinax argentata)

*Please note that all native palms are considered trees in Lee County. If you remove a palm it will require ARC

approval.

DRAINAGE AND OUR LAKES

All water runoff eventually leads to our lakes. Please direct water from down spouts onto the ground of your lot where

chemicals and impurities can be filtered out before the water reaches our lakes. Our lakes are tested regularly for chemicals

and bacteria by the county, and we are required to keep them healthy. Direction of your downspout is dictated by the

Carefree Developmental Plan and therefore requires ARC approval.

TREE TRIMMING (See C&R 8.10)

Property owners are encouraged to use professional tree trimmers/arborists to maintain their trees. Properly

trimmed/thinned trees are less vulnerable to high winds and disease. In Lee County severe pruning is considered irreparable

damage to trees. Citations, to both the property owner and the tree pruning contractor, will be issued by the county. If the

trees are severely pruned, tree replacement will be required.

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THREE-FOOT AREA ABUTTING THE CURB, COMMON GROUND AND CONSERVATION AREAS

(See Rules & Regulations 2.6)

On the front of the lot, nothing may encroach on the 3-foot area abutting the curb to allow for clearance for emergency

vehicles. Planting and decorative edging may be constructed from outside the 3-foot area abutting the curb to the structure

(house, shed, RV pad, etc.).

The area surrounding the lakes and behind nearly all lots on the perimeter of Carefree is common ground. All common

ground is maintained by Carefree maintenance employees. If you would like to have something done to a common area, fill

out an E&G Request Form (on the website or in the library).

Conservation areas are the “wild” areas around the lakes, the wetlands and some of the land behind perimeter lots. They

are under the control of the South Florida Water Management (SFWMD). No one is permitted to add, remove, or alter

anything in these areas without the written approval of the SFWMD. If you have any questions about the Conservation

Areas, contact the E&G Committee.

Neither Common Ground nor Conservation Areas may be used as private property.

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ROCB/ARC REQUIREMENTS

BOATS/CANOES/KAYAKS and their trailers

The Covenants and Restrictions Section 8.11 state:

Boats (with trailers) may be permitted on the property for loading and unloading, or they may be stored within an approved

enclosure.

However, kayaks, canoes and similar non-motorized watercraft no greater than eighteen (18) feet in length may be stored on

lots in the least visible location.

Rules and Regulations 5.3:

All approved trailers must be stored within an approved enclosure. Approved trailers are boat and bike/kayak trailers, which

must be stored in ports that are screened by the building, lattice or plantings on two sides and in the rear.

All boats, canoes and kayaks must be properly secured during storm periods and when you are out of residence for more than

2 weeks. We must avoid them being a danger to the community during high winds.

BRICK SKIRTING – HOUSE (See C&R 8.10.1.2)

Brick skirting of a house must be white brick; the same as intended for manufactured homes.

CONCRETE/PAVERS (See Rules & Regulations 2.2)

On the front of the lot, nothing must encroach on the 3-foot area abutting the curb except driveways and walkways.

Concrete work can be constructed from the 3-foot area abutting the curb to the structure (house, shed, RV pad, etc.). There

must be at least 4 feet between concrete and the sides or rear property line. We encourage the use of pervious pavers for

walkways and golf cart parking.

Concrete which encroaches on any utility easements is the property owner’s responsibility to repair should any utility work

be required.

DRIVEWAYS (See C&R 8.18)

Owners must receive ARC approval before either initially painting/staining their driveways or changing the color of their

driveways. A color sample of the paint/stain to be used must be included with The ARC form. Only colors that conform to

the uniform scheme of our development, which draws from a palette of muted browns, tans, grays and beiges will be

approved. Repainting of driveways and/or new concrete additions must also adhere to this color palette.

Preferred width of driveways should not exceed 20 feet. Use of pervious pavers may be considered.

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LANDSCAPING (See C&R 8.10 and 8.19)

• Prior to any landscaping or sod being installed, removed, altered, erected, placed, or re-located on a lot, a plan

must be submitted to ARC for review. This does not include plants and/or shrubs being placed in an existing

ARCapproved landscape bed. Grasses such as St. Augustine, Floratam or Zoysia are discouraged as they have

rhizomes (lateral shoots/runners that grow into the conservation areas and must be removed incurring an added

expense for our community. All sod selection must be approved by ARC, including location and amount of sod.

• Any changes to landscaping (excluding sod and existing ARC-approved landscape bed) must meet the minimum

requirements of at least 1(one) native tree plus 1(one) palm and/or 3(three) bushes.

• No invasive (Category I and II) plants either in outdoor pots or planted in the ground are allowed.

Owners are responsible for determining that new plants and bushes are not on the invasive plant list. Owners

will be required to immediately remove any plant determined to be invasive.

• Owners should submit a landscaping plan that blends with the existing community. The submission to ARC must

include the name and location of the plants, trees, or other items and the distances of these items from the lot

lines indicated on a copy of your most recent property survey. If you do not have a survey, you must include a

detailed drawing of the property showing lot lines and accurate measurements from your project to property

lines.

• Plants and trees must be at least 2 feet from lot lines on the sides and rear of property to allow for lawn mowing

and to prevent encroachment on neighboring lots. Please note, per the Carefree Development Plan, a 5 foot set

back is required for structures on sides and back and 10 feet on the front to the property line.

• Owners are encouraged to plant native plants.

• Per ROCB Rules & Regulations 2.6 on Landscaping Individual Lots: Planting and decorative edging may not be

constructed in the 3-foot area abutting the curb. Only sod may be in the 3-foot area abutting the curb. Plants on

the invasive list (Category I and II) cannot be planted on any Carefree property. For a current list of invasive

plants, please review Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council information at fleppc.org/list/list.htm.

• ROCB does not pay for the removal or replacement of dead trees on individual owner’s lots.

• Any new items that are placed on your property must be submitted to ARC for review. These items include, but

are not limited to, planters, rocks, statues, decorations, brick or stone paths, sprinklers, lighting, sod, fountains

and bird feeders. Reference "Help is on the Way" on page 18 of this handbook. All outdoor objects, such as

plants in pots, bikes, outdoor furniture, lawn ornaments, and other items MUST be removed from all lots during a

hurricane watch or if the property will be unattended for more than 2 (two) weeks. (See C&R 8.10, 8.10.1)

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• Any change in the appearance of any wall, fence, driveway, property, or other structure or improvement and any

change in the appearance of landscaping shall be considered an alteration requiring ARC approval. Lights, flags,

and other decorations customary for holidays do not require approval, but may be regulated as to size, quantity,

nature, and length of time they may remain in place.

• No landscaping may alter the original drainage plan of the community.

• All landscaping that impacts the swale between lots must submit a swale review form to Environment and

Grounds (E&G) for approval. Final Board approval is necessary before work may begin. (Rule and Regulations 2.3)

LIGHTING

• All lights, except holiday lights, require ARC approval. This includes solar lights (even in approved beds) and rope lights

and should adhere to the following standards:

o Houses – Rope lights must be white/clear and may only be placed along the carport side of house.

Lights on the front of house can only be at an entrance or under the carport.

o RV lots – White/clear rope lights may be placed on the pad along the entrance side of the RV.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

Initial Home /Accessory Building

Initial home placement/construction:

• CGR will submit an ARC Review Form for New Construction. Under description of work CGR will list the new home,

any sheds, lanais, carports, AC, concrete work to be done and proposed landscaping. CGR will attach to The ARC

form an engineer’s drawing, which includes the placement and lot lines of the home and accessory buildings. Street

placement must be shown on the drawing as well.

• ARC will review form. If necessary ARC will note that supporting documentation is needed (permits, copies of

project showing Lee County approval, etc.).

• Once CGR has filed for and received a Lee County building permit CGR will notify the Management.

• The Management will make copies of the Lee County building permit that is posted as well as the sheet showing the

project drawing with Lee County approval.

• As other permits are pulled (mechanical, etc.) CGR will notify the Management who will then make copies of any

new permits that are posted as well as the sheet showing the project drawing with Lee County approval.

• The Management will follow the progress of the project via the Lee County permit website and will keep ARC

updated with all necessary documentation and case status updates.

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Accessory building construction: (See C&R 8.10.1.1)

The homeowner will submit an ARC New Construction Review Form. Under description of work to be done the

homeowner will list all accessory building, AC and/or concrete work to be done.

The homeowner will attach a drawing to The ARC Review Form showing lot lines and placement of the accessory

building, street placement and/or concrete.

• ARC will review form for approval and will note that supporting documentation is needed (permits, copies of project

showing Lee County approval, etc.).

• Once the homeowner has received a permit they will need to submit to ARC a copy of the permit and a copy of the

sheet showing the project drawing with Lee County approval.

• ARC will review the documents and approve the project if it meets the C&R requirements.

• Once ARC approval is given the project can commence. Please note: the approval is effective four days after ARC

meets to review the request.

Landscaping:

• The homeowner will submit an ARC Review Form indicating the proposed landscaping design, which requires at

least 1 (one) native tree plus 1 (one) palm and/or 3 bushes within six months of home acceptance/completion.

• The homeowner will attach a property survey or detailed drawing to The ARC Review Form showing lot lines,

placement and names of vegetation, placement of any additional items to be included in the landscaping (lights,

flags, statues, fountains, etc.)

• ARC will review the form for approval.

• Once ARC approval is given the landscaping project can commence. Please note: the approval is effective 4 (four)

days after ARC meets to review the request.

• In order to protect our Development Plan tree requirements with Lee County, removal of a tree that MAY BE on

common ground or in the conservation area will not be approved without a survey or original survey stake being

found.

OPENINGS IN HOUSE SKIRTING (See Rules & Regulations 2.1)

With the exception of vents, the openings in the skirting of a house may not exceed a total of 12 linear feet with each

opening not to exceed 4 (four) linear feet. The covering of the openings:

• Must be located facing the side or rear of the property. Openings must not face the street.

• The outside surface of the openings should be vinyl or aluminum, and must be white or the color of the house

siding.

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PET ENCLOSURES (See Rules & Regulations 2.10)

• Pet enclosures are not permitted on any common area or conservation land.

• Permanent pet enclosures are not permitted.

Requirements for Temporary (removable) pet enclosures

• The entire enclosure must be of uniform material and style.

It must be located on only one side of the house or RV.

• It cannot be placed in front of an RV pad.

• It cannot be placed in front of any part of the structure on a house lot.

• It must be at least 2 feet from the side or rear property lines.

• The enclosure must be manufactured for pets.

• The maximum height allowed is 42 inches.

• Any portion, which is on grass, must be removed for mowing.

• The enclosure must be removed when the lot is unattended for more than a week.

• For House lots either vinyl or metal enclosures will be considered. For RV lots only metal pet enclosures are

allowed.

ARC approval is not required for temporary pet enclosures IF THEY MEET THE PRECEEDING REQUIREMENTS.

PRIVACY SCREENING FOR RV LOTS (See Rules & Regulations 2.9 and C&R 8.10.1)

A privacy screen may be located across the rear expanse of the RV pad and along patio side of RV pad only. Posts must be

of white aluminum or white vinyl material not less than 4 x 4 inches. Posts must be anchored on outer edge of cement, but

must not overhang pad edge. (Anything in excess of 200 square feet may require Lee County Permit). The height must not

exceed 6(six) feet from the pad.

Lots with Houses – A privacy screen may be attached to the existing carport posts not to extend past the front of carport.

Screening material for all types of lots must be of white vinyl lattice.

TEMPORARY RAMPS

Approval for a temporary ramp is for 1 (one) year only. You must reapply for a subsequent year. Ramps must comply with

required construction material. It must also be secured to the house or foundation.

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HOUSE STEPS

Owner must receive ARC approval before changing existing steps. Materials may include vinyl siding, cement, brick, trex,

PVC and tile. Only colors that conform to the uniform scheme of our development will be considered, to include vinyl to

match house color, white brick and matching concrete color.

RV STEPS

Temporary and attached steps

In planning your RV step project please consider these recommendations in your design. Our objective in providing these

recommendations is to ensure some continuity within the resort and enhance the overall appearance of our community.

Fiberglass or pressure treated wood construction is acceptable o Pressure treated wood must be stained or

sealed white, natural or dark o Handrail should be wood, white aluminum, white PVC or chrome. Handrails are

required if there are more than 3 steps.

• Temporary steps must be stored when RV is not on site

• Attached steps must be secured to cement or RV and may remain when not in residence for extended period of

time provided RV remains on site.

• If you have 2 sets of steps (front & side door) they should be made of like design and material to ensure

consistency.

• If structural part of steps (stringer) is enclosed it should be finished with lattice/wood (white or stained/sealed to

match steps). The lattice should be trimmed with edging to give a more finished look.

• If you consider a landing for your steps it should not exceed 4’x4’.

• Keep in mind, decks are not permitted.

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Some views of recommendations noted below:

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SHEDS

Free standing and attached sheds (See C&R 8.10.1.1)

• A review form submitted to ARC must have the following information:

1. A copy of your most recent survey with the placement of the structure shown as well as measurements from

the structure to the property line. If you do not have a survey please include a detailed drawing of the

property showing lot lines and accurate measurements from your project to property lines.

2. A picture of the shed.

3. A statement of the color scheme, the door style and materials used.

4. The name(s) of the licensed contractor or installer including their license number.

5. A copy of the contractor’s proposal with the price deleted.

6. A copy of the county permit with the date approved.

• All sheds must have vinyl siding which conforms to the general color scheme of other structures in the community

and which matches the vinyl siding of the existing house if applicable.

• All shed roofs must be of a style and color that blends with the existing uniformity of the community. If shingled,

the shingles must match the roof of the existing house.

• Shed doors must be of a style that blends with the existing uniformity of the community. All solid areas of the shed

doors must be white.

• If plan includes water and electric in the shed, applicable county permits must be submitted to the Carefree office

before work begins. If in the future you decide to add water or electric, you must obtain a county permit and ARC

approval.

Free standing sheds only

• No more than one free standing shed per property.

• Per Lee County requirements, sheds may not exceed more than 120 sq. ft. if placed on an RV lot.

• Sheds must have white brick skirting, same as required for manufactured homes.

• New shed or relocation of existing shed is a lot change and does require a new construction form to be completed.

SOUND BARRIERS (See Rules & Regulations 2.11)

ARC requires that owners comply with the current uniform scheme of our development. Sound barriers are permitted but

cannot be higher than 5 (five) feet and no longer than 8 (eight) feet, must be white vinyl lattice and must be properly

anchored into cement (to prevent them from becoming a danger in high winds) using 4 inch x 4 inch posts. At the time this

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Handbook was revised, a permit from Lee County was required. The owner should check with the county for up to date

permitting and anchoring requirements. The design must conform to the standards of the community.

TRELLIS (See Rules & Regulations 2.11 and C&R 8.10.1)

A trellis may be erected for the purpose of supporting plantings. The material must be white vinyl and not exceed 8 (eight)

feet in height or 5 (five) feet in length. Natural wood or standard trellis material may also be allowed. It must conform to

the uniformity of the community.

IMPORTANT REMINDER

All outdoors objects, such as plants in pots, bikes, outdoor furniture, lawn ornaments, and other similar items MUST be

secured inside a structure or inside an RV during a hurricane watch or if the property will be unattended for more than 2

(two) weeks.

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HELP IS ON THE WAY

It is difficult to remember what changes to our properties need to be submitted to ARC for approval. In light of this, ARC

has excerpted a list of items from the C&Rs to assist lot owners. The parenthesis ( ) identify the applicable C&Rs. The most

recent set of C&Rs were voted on by the membership and became effective on May 20, 2013. We hope this will be helpful.

(8.1.1) Fences can only be considered for lots S1, S3, S5, S7, S9, S11, S21, S23, S25, S27, S29, S31, S33, G34, G36, G38, G40,

G42, G44 and Greenspace. For specific fencing requirements, please refer to C&R 8.1.1 and applicable board policies.

(8.5) Any outdoor equipment such as pumps and water softening devices must be reasonably screened from view.

(8.10) All structures, improvements and additions that are erected, placed, altered, relocated or removed and all new

construction on a lot must be approved by ARC.

(8.10.1) Placement, alteration, relocation of the following need ARC approval. The list is not all inclusive.

Artificial grass Patios or patio extensions

Asphalting Planters

Awnings Privacy screens

Basketball hoops Ramps

Benches or other site furniture Rocks

Birdhouses Screen enclosures

Concrete Shutters

Decorative plaques or accessories Sidewalk/driveway surfaces

Doors Sound barriers

Exterior lighting Statues

Exterior paint or finish Steps

Gutters & downspouts Storage sheds

Hedges Swales (drainage ditch, submit form to E&G)

Hurricane protection Trailers

Landscaping Walls

Lattice Windows

Other Pet Houses

EMERGENCY REPAIRS

If emergency replacement of a roof, window or air-conditioning unit is required, submission of an ARC form and a copy of the permit is still necessary, but work may begin before approval is obtained. In the event of an emergency, submission of an ARC form and a copy of the permit is still necessary, but work may begin before ARC approval is obtained. An emergency

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is defined as a health, safety or property damage where the waiting period for the ARC process will exacerbate the issue. Examples would be damage to roof, window or air-conditioning. Emergency approval is granted by a member of Management. In the event an emergency is denied, home owners may apply for an exception by submitting the request to the ARC Committee. In the event of an exception, the request will be reviewed by ARC on a case by case basis. All decisions may be appealed to the BoA within 10 days of receipt of decision.

ARC REVIEW FORM IS NOT NECESSARY FOR THE FOLLOWING PROJECTS:

Landscaping/Trees

Trimming trees on owner’s property. Severe pruning is considered irreparable damage to trees. Citations, to both the

property owner and the tree pruning contractor, will be issued by Lee County. If the trees are severely pruned, tree

replacement will be required.

• Removal of dead plants or bushes. Removal of a dead tree still needs ARC approval.

• Planting in an existing ARC-approved landscape bed. Note: no plant on the Florida invasive plant list (Category I or

II) is allowed (fleppc.org/list/list.htm).

• Owners are responsible for determining that new plants and bushes are not on the invasive plant list. Owners will

be required to immediately remove any plant determined to be invasive.

Exterior maintenance and repair

• Caulking around windows, doors and roofs.

• Repairs consisting of like size, kind, color and quality. For example, replacement of a broken fixture with a

duplicate of it or repair of broken siding with an exact color match.

• Superficial patching of cracks in concrete. More extensive concrete repair still needs ARC approval.

• Repairs to the sprinkler system.

• Repainting shutters or repainting/re-staining driveways if the same color and it adheres to the approved color

palette of browns, tans, beiges and grays. Any new concrete requires ARC approval.

• Downspout extensions (placement must conform to drainage requirements in Developmental Plan).

New projects

• Solar tubes.

• Satellite dishes less than 1 meter in diameter. FCC Rule 47C.F.R. Section 1.40000.

• Protective screening behind brick skirting.

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THE ARC REVIEW PROCESS

1. ARC review forms are available in the library or on the Carefree website (carefreecommunity.com – password

protected).

2. Complete the form and submit it with all appropriate information including permits. Include a property survey or

a detailed drawing with measurements from lot lines to the proposed project. Show street location on the survey

or drawing.

3. To be considered at the next ARC meeting, forms must be submitted by 9:00 a.m. on the Thursday preceding the

Monday meeting. ARC meetings are generally held on the first and third Mondays of each month.

4. Minutes for the meetings are posted on the bulletin board by the maintenance room as well as on the Carefree

website.

5. Whenever a quorum is present, ARC members will review requests submitted. If a quorum is not present, the

Management will act on the requests and record minutes with input from ARC members.

6. Review of requests takes into consideration whether the project meets the C&Rs and other rules and regulations

or policies that may apply.

7. If the project meets ARC requirements, it is approved effective 4 (four) days after the review is completed.

8. If the project is approved with changes or conditions, those will be noted on the form.

9. If further information is needed before a project can be approved, this will be noted on the form.

10. If the project does not meet the requirements listed in #6 above, this will be noted on the form.

11. In rare cases a project will require further review, and the form will be forwarded to the BoA.

12. After review, the form is copied and forwarded to the property owner. The original form is put in The ARC files.

13. It is the property owner’s responsibility to notify the Management when the project is completed.

14. The Management follows up on all ARC approvals to ensure work performed is in agreement with work approved.

Owners are encouraged to attend The ARC meeting to elaborate on their project or answer any questions that may come

up.

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SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is The Architectural Review Committee (ARC)?

The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) is an advisory committee to the BOA consisting of fellow ROCB property

owners. The ARC is assigned the responsibility for approving plans for any change to an owner's lot. For example, an owner

must submit plans to ARC for site plans, remodeling exteriors and/or improvements, plantings or landscaping of any kind,

fountains, sod, water filters, painting of driveways, etc.

When evaluating an owner’s request for change, it is important that ARC follow the C&Rs so that uniformity of the Resort

is maintained and property values are protected.

What needs ARC approval?

Any changes to the outside of a home or lot (exceptions are listed on page 18).

What happens if I fail to submit an ARC form and make changes to the exterior of the property and/or my lot?

It may be determined by the BOA that a violation has occurred. A fine may be assessed per Rules & Regulations

2.12 - Violations.

How long does the approval process take?

ARC typically meets on the first and third Mondays of the month at the posted time. Completed forms must be submitted

by 9:00 a.m. the Thursday before the meeting at which they will be reviewed. If approved by ARC, the approval is effective

4 (four) days after The ARC review is completed. Please check the Carefree calendar for the exact date and location of The

ARC meetings.

Where do I find ARC Review Forms, and where are they submitted?

ARC Review Forms can be found in a red folder in the Clubhouse Library or on the Carefree Website. All completed forms

should be returned to the Carefree office by 9:00 a.m. on Thursday. If the office is closed, completed forms can be placed

in the black box outside the Carefree office.

What is the process when the project is completed?

Notify the Management either by e-mail or written statement, that your project is finished. The Management will follow

up on all ARC approvals to ensure work performed is in agreement with work approved.

What is common ground?

Common ground refers to real property maintained by the ROCB Board of Administration or the Carefree Clubhouse Board

of Directors for the general benefit of the members. On most lots it also includes the 3 (three) foot area abutting the curb.

What is the conservation area?

Conservation Area is that area comprising native vegetation, which is protected by an agreement with South

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Florida Water Management District. Nothing can be altered in the conservation area by Carefree members. Conservation

Areas include the lakes, the preserve areas bordering the lakes and most of the area behind perimeter lots and along

wooded areas.

What is a set-back?

A Set-back is footage that must be maintained on sides, front and rear of lots and may not be built upon. The Setback has

been determined in the Carefree Development Plan.

What is an easement?

An easement is a specific area that is open to another entity, for example utilities, water management and emergency

equipment to use and access.

What are the Covenants and Restrictions (C&Rs)?

The rules by which the community is governed, approved by the membership and filed with Lee County. A copy is on our

Carefree website.

May I attend an ARC meeting?

Any ROCB member may attend ARC meetings. The ARC encourages members who have submitted forms to attend.

How do I join The ARC?

Terms for ARC members last four years, ending on a staggered basis. Any ROCB property owner in good standing is

eligible to be on ARC, and you are encouraged to apply. Application forms are available in the Clubhouse library or on the

website (carefreecommunity.com). You may submit your form at any time, but the BoA appointments to ARC are typically

done in January. An e-mail will go out to the community when openings occur.

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