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Design Guidelines

Procedures and Guidelines

Preface

Sawyer Ridge, LLC is the entity designated by the Declaration of Conditions, Covenants,  Restrictions and Easements for Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1 (referred herein as the  “Covenants”), which has the authority to enforce and implement the Covenants. The  author of the Covenants, recognizing the impracticability of addressing all issues that  might arise concerning the use and enjoyment of the land within Sawyer Ridge Filing No.  1, and recognizing the desirability of being able to address problems on an as-needed  basis has adopted these Design Review Guidelines consistent with the Covenants for  the purpose of enhancing and protecting the value, desirability and attractiveness of  Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1. Sawyer Ridge, LLC has adopted the following Design  Review Guidelines for use within the entire development. The Design Review  Guidelines are declared by the Covenants to have the same force and effect as if  originally contained in the Covenants.  

Owners are hereby advised that the Design Review Guidelines do not address every  requirement or obligation imposed by the Covenants. Accordingly, knowledge of the  Covenants, as well as these Design Guidelines is necessary to understand all the  guidelines for construction and maintenance of homes within Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1.

This document on the date implemented will provide home design and landscaping  guidelines, procedures and regulations for review.

These Design Review Guidelines are applicable to all real property subject to the  Covenants.

Section 1 – Introduction

Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1 is a community where dwellings of varying sizes, styles and  designs are to be built in harmony with each other to compliment the surrounding  physical environment. There is no mandatory style of architecture at Sawyer Ridge  Filing No. 1, but there are restrictions imparted on the styles that will affect the overall  building design.

The Sawyer Ridge, LLC Approving Authority (herein called the “Approving Authority”)  sets standards for new construction and landscaping as well as additions and changes  to existing structures as authorized by the Covenants. The Approving Authority has  published this document to further define the design concepts and establish specific  requirements to assist the Owner and Architect / Designer in preparing plans that suit  the Sawyer Ridge environment. No construction or exterior modification may begin  without written approval from the Approving Authority.

The major objective in controlling house design and construction at Sawyer Ridge is to  insure quality construction and enhance (maintain) property values. Quality of design  and compatibility with adjacent lots are the principal factors affecting the overall design  aesthetic of the Sawyer Ridge development; and will be most important in the overall  approval process. 

These standards apply to all properties and allow flexibility that is essential when dealing  with a diverse set of Owners and Builders. These standards are intended to guide and  help the Owner, Architect / Designer and Builder in formulating design and construction  concepts for the homes. The overall intended outcome is an aesthetic quality that will be  inherent to the overall development and the surrounding community. 

Because no two lots are exactly alike, the Approving Authority will review each plan in  relation to the specific characteristics of that lot and it surrounding “neighbors”, and  reserves the right to reject any plan, which, in the opinion of the Approving Authority,  does not meet the guidelines and standards for this development. The appearance of  the houses from other lots and streets are key considerations. 

The purpose of this document is to: 1) set forth the design concepts and design  requirements, and; 2) establish specific drawing standards to provide uniformity in  drawing submittals. By assembling this data in one document, the Architect / Designer  can better prepare the required site, building and landscaping documents and the  Builder can subsequently complete the construction in compliance with the governing  procedures. The Approving Authority will rule upon conflicts or questions of  interpretation of requirements between this and other documents.

The Owner and Architect / Designer should review all of the documents governing home  design and construction before starting any design work. Ultimate responsibility for  compliance with the governing documents for both the home and the site improvements  rest with the Owner.

The Owner and Architect / Designer should understand that the Approving Authority is  basically concerned only with the external appearance of the home, the landscaping,  drainage and impact on the surrounding areas. House floor plans, internal configuration  and interior finishes, etc. are at the discretion of the Owner and Architect / Designer.

This document is divided and organized to allow for easy location of particular areas of  interests to the readers.

Section 2

Approving Authority

Section 2.1 – Approving Authority

Sawyer Ridge, LLC (hereinafter referred to as the “Declarant”) shall assign an individual or individuals to act as the Approving Authority; as stipulated in the Covenants. All meetings required or contemplated by the Approving Authority will be scheduled in a timely fashion and proper notice will be forwarded to all interested parties.

The Approving Authority will normally meet once each month to review submissions with attending parties. Meeting times and dates may be altered without notice provided to Owners or to Architects / Designers who have submitted material for review.

Section 3

Site Designs Requirements

Section 3.1 – Site Grading and Drainage

3.1.1 Site grading and drainage will be done with minimum disruption to the lot and shall not drain to adjoining lots, open spaces or across adjacent streets so as to cause a condition that could lead to soil erosion or is detrimental to existing drainage patterns.

3.1.2 Contouring to create large “unnatural” flat earth platforms to serve as building or amenity sites is not acceptable. The building and it’s attached amenities should be designed to engage the site with as little disturbance to the site as possible. Land that is disturbed must be re-contoured to “blend” with the original terrain as much as possible.

3.2 – Re-contours and retainage

3.2.1 Re-contoured slopes over 2:1 must be retained with architecturally acceptable retaining walls. Individual wall heights are nominally limited to a maximum height of three feet (3’). Retainage requiring heights in excess of three feet (3’) must be properly terraced and designed by a licensed engineer with appropriate drawings and documentation, certified and furnished to the Approving Authority for approval.

3.2.2 Retaining walls may be constructed of natural stone, modular concrete landscaping blocks or new (brown) pressure treated timbers. Exposed concrete walls must be textured, colored and faced. All retaining wall material must be compatible with the house and surrounding environment.

3.2.3 Adequate slopes away from the house foundation must be maintained to provide proper runoff. As a minimum, the finished grade 10 feet from the house should be one foot (1’) below grade at the house. Re-contouring cannot result in surface runoff to neighboring properties or common areas such as to increase the runoff to these properties or cause soil erosion. All plans must comply with the City of Pueblo requirements.

Section 3.3 – Setbacks

3.3.1 Lot owners must confirm the setbacks that apply to a specific lot by consulting applicable recorded documents at the City of Pueblo’s Planning office. Any intrusion of patios, decks and enclosures into building setbacks may be considered by the Approving Authority on an individual basis and must be in compliance with the City of Pueblo requirements.

Section 3.4 – Driveways

3.4.1 Driveways shall have a slope consistent with the natural slope of the site and not exceed 10% grade wherever possible. Driveway entry should be as narrow as practical ( i.e. 16 ‘). Driveways must be paved with concrete from the street all the way to the garage. Only one driveway access per lot is allowed. Exceptions to this rule for unusual circumstances may be considered and approved by the Approving Authority.

3.4.2 Driveway construction shall not interfere with established drainage and street grades.

Section 3.5 – Backboards and Outdoor Accessories

3.5.1 Installation of all backboards and outdoor accessories (i.e. basketball, tennis, handball,  horseshoes, volleyball pits, playhouses, etc.) installed on the house or free-standing  improvements shall be screened from view from the neighboring properties and streets,  be of a color compatible with the house and have prior approval of the Approving  Authority before installation. 

Section 3.6 – Pools and Spas

3.6.1 Above ground pool structures are not allowed. Pool decking for in-ground pools must be level with the finished grade. All pool equipment shall be screened from view of neighboring property and streets. All pool equipment must be located in such a manner as to not disturb the occupants of adjacent properties. Spas are allowed to be located above ground, on at-grade patios and decks. The spa and any associated equipment must be situated adjacent to the house and be screened and sound buffeted as completely as possible from the view of neighboring properties and streets. The screening may be appropriate non-deciduous vegetation or an enclosure compatible with the house. The location and screening must have prior written approval of the Approving Authority.

Section 3.7 – House Numbers

3.7.1 House number signage must be sized so as to allow installation of house numbers whose minimum height is four inches (4”) and whose maximum height is six inches (6”). The numbers must be of an appropriate contrasting material and color with the surface upon which they are mounted. The signage must be designed and built using materials that are compatible with the design of the house and have a professional constructed appearance.

Section 3.8 – Fencing

3.8.3 Any fencing placed in the front yard is to be decorative in nature and will be a wood rail type fence with a maximum height of 42 inches above natural grade.

3.8.4 Fencing materials composed partially or totally of chain link, barbed wire, vinyl, etc. are not permitted.

3.8.5 All fencing must be approved by the Approving Authority and must be shown on the site  plan at the time of all submittals. No fencing shall be erected without approval.

Section 3.9 – Other Regulatory Agencies Site Requirements

3.9.1 The site design must be in compliance with all Federal, State and local agencies’ requirements.

Section 4.1 – Size / Square Footage

4.1.1 Within Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1, there are two (2) distinctive types of lots; as outlined in the Covenants. Some specific design parameters are herein noted for each type of lot.

4.1.2 The lot types are:

4.1.2.1 Lot type ‘A’ are those lots designated as “bluff” lots. Refer to the Covenants for a list of  ‘A’ lots. 

4.1.2.2 Lot type ‘B’ are all lots not designated as ‘A’ lots. Refer to the Covenants for a list of ‘B’  lots.

Section 4.2 – Size / Square Footage

4.2.1 Minimum house sizes are as mandated by the Covenants. For lot type ‘A’; the minimum  footprint is 2,000 square feet. For lot type ‘B’; the minimum footprint is 1,500 square  feet.

4.2.2 All houses are to have a minimum of a two (2) car garage.

Section 4.3 – Height of Structures

4.3.1 It is the goal of the Approving Authority to limit the height of the homes on flat and gently  sloping lots to a maximum of thirty five’ (feet). This height is determined by the distance  from the lowest visible house / finished grade line to the top of the ridge at the highest  portion of the house. Building heights shall be limited to two (2) stories plus a roof. In  no case will continuous vertical building elevations of more than two (2) stories be  allowed, that is, building elevations greater than two (2) stories in height must be broken  by horizontal setbacks. Designs, which result in excessive vertical massing, will not be  approved. The Approving Authority reserves the right to require a lower building height  if, in the opinion of the Approving Authority, the proposed structure would be detrimental  to the design integrity of the community. 

4.3.2 In no case is the height of the house to exceed the overall maximum building height  dictated by the City of Pueblo.

Section 4.4 – Color

4.4.1 The color of exterior materials will be generally subdued to blend with the colors of the  natural landscaping, generally, muted earth tones are recommended. Accent colors and materials, used sparingly and with restraint may be permitted. Whites and large  expanses of pastels are not allowed.

4.4.2 The color of all projections including, but not limited to, chimney flues, gas meters,  vents, gutters, downspouts and utility boxes shall match the color of the adjacent wall  surface.

Section 4.5 – Materials

4.5.1 All materials must be of a quality equal to the house design. Exterior surfaces will be of  materials with colors and textures that are compatible with the landscape.

4.5.2 The use of synthetic stone veneer and stucco finishes is acceptable. Avoid large areas  without fenestrations.

4.5.3 Wood or textured premanufactured siding materials are not acceptable

4.5.4 Vinyl and metal siding materials are not acceptable.

4.5.5 Where restricted materials are desired approval may be asked for of the  Approving Authority.

Section 4.6 – Roofs

4.6.1 The maximum pitch of the primary roof section will not exceed 8 / 12 without written  approval of the Approving Authority. Approval by the Approving Authority is based upon  the visual impact of the roof on the lot and on the neighboring lots, streets and open  spaces. Roof forms and slopes should follow the natural slope of the terrain. Roof  overhangs are to be 2 feet (2’) minimum.

4.6.2 All roofing material must meet City of Pueblo requirements for fire resistance and, as a  minimum, be fire resistance Class ‘A’. Wooden shake shingles are not allowed.

4.6.3 All ‘A’ lot roofs are to be of concrete roofing tiles.

4.6.4 All ‘B’ lot roofs are to be of “dimensional” (architectural grade) composition shingle  roofing or better. 

Section 4.7 – Flat Roofs

4.7.1 Flat roofs are allowed. Roof protrusions should be kept to a minimum and not be  visibly obtrusive. Where possible, vent protrusions should be grouped and screened by  a single enclosure whose material is compatible with the overall house design. The flat  roofing material should be of an “earth tone” color; exposed black or white roofing  materials are not allowed. The material and color of the roofing material are subject to  the acceptance of the Approving Authority.

Section 4.8 – Garage Doors

4.8.1 Materials and design of the garage doors must be compatible with the overall house  design.

Section 4.9 – Foundation Walls

4.9.1 On all foundation walls, the house wall finish materials must follow the grade slope with  no more than 6 inches (6”) of foundation wall exposed below the finished wall material.

4.9.2 Any exposed concrete foundation wall must be painted to match the color of the wall  finish above. Brick and stone materials must extend to finished grade.

Section 4.10 – Exterior Mechanical Equipment

4.10.1 All exterior mechanical equipment such as air conditioning and heat exchanger  equipment shall be either incorporated into the overall form of the house or must be  permanently enclosed by appropriate material or screened and sound buffered by non deciduous plantings approved for use in the development.

Section 4.11 – Exterior Enclosed Areas

4.11.1 Exterior enclosures must be designed to be integral with the house and constructed of  the same materials or compatible with the exterior finishes of the house. The Approving  Authority, for aesthetic appearance and reasonableness of size and area, will review  exterior enclosures for the specific purpose of privacy. 

Section 4.12 – Decks

4.12.1 Decks and deck supports shall be constructed of materials compatible with the overall  house design.

4.12.2 All deck layouts and materials must be approved by the Approving Authority.

Section 4.13 – Exterior Steps

4.13.1 Front entry steps are to be constructed of concrete. The use of a decorative surfaces (  i.e. stone, etc.) over the concrete is acceptable. The use of wood on front entry steps is  not acceptable. 

4.13.2 Exterior steps leading from auxiliary entrances or decks to finished grade are  discouraged. When the Owner desires such a stairway, the stairway must be placed  such that the slope of the stairs is parallel to the side of the house. The step design and  materials must be compatible with the overall design and color of the house.

Section 4.14 Accessory Site Structure and Exterior Storage Structures

4.14.1 Accessory structures, such as swing sets, sand boxes, etc. shall be constructed  predominantly of wood compatible with the overall design of the house and with prior  written permission of the Approving Authority. Where used, appropriate screening using  properly designed enclosures and/or non-deciduous trees or shrubs must be provided.  Color, location and screening are subject to approval by the Approving Authority. Use of  bright, or multi-colored material will not be approved.

4.14.2 The construction and /or installation of exterior storage structures are permitted with the  prior written approval of the Approving authority.

Section 4.15 – Exterior Lighting

4.15.1 Exterior lighting must be designed and installed as to avoid being a nuisance for  neighboring properties and streets. All automatically operated exterior lights, must be  downlights or “low voltage” planting lights. The light source must not be visible from  neighboring properties, streets and common areas. External flood lighting fixtures are  not permitted. In all cases, exterior lights are to be reviewed by the Approving Authority.

4.15.2 No exterior lights activated by sound or motion sensors are permitted.

Section 4.16 – Skylights

4.16.1 Skylights are to be of the “flat” glass design. Skylights that are of the bubble design  could be used on the rear roof elevation with the approval of the Approving Authority.

Section 4.17 – Sun Shades, Arbors, Trellis and other Structures

4.17.1 The vertical support elements of any such features will be of wood, brick, stucco or  stone. If partial screen walls are used in these structures, they shall be of natural  materials. All features will need to be sited to accommodate all required easements and  setbacks. Show all such features on the site plan for review by the Approving Authority. 

4.17.2 The following materials shall be used for the roof covering of these structures:

  1. Materials matching the roof of the house.
  2. Glass (flat) panels.
  3. Wood – solid or spaced.
  4. Canvas in natural tones as approved by the Approving Authority. 

4.17.4 The Approving Authority shall approve height and placement of all such structures. And  shall not obstruct any neighbor’s views.

4.17.5 Unacceptable materials include, but are not limited to:

  1. Metal structures and supports.
  2. Corrugated plastic and fiberglass.
  3. Inflatable structures.

4.18.1 Chimneys are a distinctive design element and must be addressed accordingly within  the overall house design.

4.18.2 All chimneys must meet all City of Pueblo emission standards. 

Section 4.19 – Windows Settings / Trim (for Stucco Homes)

4.19.1 All windows are required to have appropriate trim to provide aesthetical shadow lines.  Windows in stucco walls must be trimmed (banded) with appropriate stucco (or wood)  casing. The casing must provide a minimum of 1 ½ inches ( 1 ½”) reveal from the wall  surface and be a minimum of 3 ½ inches ( 3 ½” ) in width. Windows may be allowed  with no trim on rear of house only with the approval of the Approving Authority.

Section 4.20 – Areaways (Window Wells)

4.20.1 Exposed window wells are to be constructed of new timber or concrete (either cast-in place or pre-cast). Window wells should protrude as little as possible above grade.

Section 4.21 – Front Entrances

4.21.0.1 All front entrances shall be designed to enhance the overall design of the house. The use of decorative entry  doors is encouraged. 

4.20.1.1 Front entrances for ‘A’ lots shall have a minimum of two (2) entry doors (doors  to be a minimum of 2’-6” wide each).

4.20.1.2 Front entrances for ‘B’ lots shall have one (1) 36 inch wide entry door with a  minimum of one (1) 16 inch wide tempered, fixed sidelight (adjacent to the door).

Section 5

Landscaping Design Requirements

Section 5.1 General

5.1.1 All yards and open spaces shall be landscaped. Contouring for landscape effects is  subject to the same limitations imposed on the overall site design (i.e. no slopes greater  that 2:1, maximum retaining wall height is 3 feet (3’), etc.). Plantings shall be limited to  plant materials that are suitable for the climate of Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1. .

5.1.2 Required tree plantings. Each front yard within Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1 is to have at least one (1) Spring Snow tree planted equidistant in the yard approximately 12 feet from the interior face of the sidewalk. The required tree shall be a minimum 2” caliper. The required tree shall be shown on the required landscape plan.

5.1.3 Minimize disruption of the natural grading as much as practical.

5.1.4 Select man-made elements that blend and are compatible with the land.

5.1.5 Rock shapes and colors should be compatible with other landscaping material and  approved by the Approving Authority. Where used, large expanses of rock and mulch  are not permitted and must be “broken” up with shrubs and perennial plantings.

5.1.6 Preserve existing drainage paths.

5.1.7 Ornamental manicured species such as bonsai, topiary or pom pom type plantings are  not permitted.

Section 5.2 – Landscaping Plan

5.2.1 A detailed landscape plan is required at the time of the final design review submittal.  The plan should be prepared using an overlay of the site plan at a scale e of 1” = 10’-0”  (minimum). The landscape plan should include all existing and proposed site grading.  The drawing must have a north arrow oriented to the top or right of the sheet. Footprints  of all proposed site improvements including decks, patios, porches, driveways,  sidewalks, enclosures and retaining walls should be shown. Indicate the landscape  treatment to be applied to all affected areas.

5.2.2 Minimum planting sizes for front yards. 

  1. Deciduous trees: 2” caliper.
  2. Evergreen trees: 6’ high.
  3. Shrubs: 5-gallon container size.
  4. Perennials or ground cover: 1-gallon size.

5.2.3 Installation of the approved landscaping is required within the time limit stipulated  herein. 

5.2.4 Buyers of speculative (spec) built homes, where the landscaping has not been installed  (or completed), are required to either accept and install the landscaping as specified on  the approved landscape plan within the allotted time limits, or submit a revised plan if  they desire to make changes to the approved plan.

5.3.1 All landscaped areas and lawns shall be sprinklered with an automatic irrigation  system. The irrigation system need not be shown on the landscaping plan; however, an irrigation system must be installed. Irrigation system requirements shall be as specified  by the City of Pueblo.

Section 5.4 – Landscaping Maintenance

5.4.1 All property owners are responsible for maintaining their properties’ landscaping and  planting materials.

Section 5.5 – Drainage Improvements and Maintenance

5.6.1 As a result of the site improvements (i.e. house and hard surface construction and  installation) a significant increase in water runoff is anticipated. Adequate drainage  paths and proper vegetation installation will be required to minimize the potential of  runoff and erosion to adjacent properties. Methods of temporary and permanent erosion  control must be detailed on the site and landscaping plans.

Section 6

Design Procedures

Section 6.1 – Site Preparations

6.1.1 No grading, removal of topsoil or removal of vegetation shall be started, and no  construction within Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1 shall commence until the final design is  approved by the Approving Authority (in writing) and a building or foundation permit is  obtained from the City of Pueblo. A copy of the building permit is to be submitted to the  Approving Authority within fourteen (14) days of commencement of construction  activities.

Section 6.2 – Design Drawing Preparation

6.2.1 All drawings must be prepared by a licensed Architect or by a qualified Building  Designer. Those portions of the final design drawings related to structural engineering  considerations (i.e. foundation design / layout, framing design / layout, etc.) must be  prepared by an engineer licensed to practice in the State of Colorado.

Section 6.3 Submittal Packet

6.3.1 Prior to the preparation of plans for any home, a complete submittal packet for  Approving Authority procedures must be prepared.  

6.3.2 These Design Guidelines contain instructions, forms, checklists and a fee schedule,  which must be adhered to in its entirety by all affected parties when making the two (2)  required plan submissions.

Section 6.4 – Fee Schedule

6.4.1 A fee schedule listing all amounts and required insurance certifications is available from  the Approving Authority and is included within these Guidelines.

Section 6.5 – Checklist

6.5.1 The applicant indicating conformity to the rules and regulations at the time of the  submissions must complete the Checklists in this packet. Any materials not completed  or provided at that time will result in an incomplete submission, which may not be  reviewed by the Approving Authority.

Section 6.6 – Owner / Architect Pre-Design Meetings

6.6.1 Should the property Owner(s) or the Architect / Designer require clarification regarding  written directions or comments received from the Approving Authority in response to any  plan submittal, they may make arrangements with the Approving Authority to meet and  discuss these matters “in person”. The Owner and/or Architect / building Designer must  provide a written document outlining the subject of the proposed meeting in a timely  manner. The meeting request will be treated as a “submittal” and scheduled in the  queue system through the Approving Authority.  

Section 6.7 – Plan Submission

6.7.1 The Preliminary and Final (construction document) drawings must be submitted  separately to the Approving Authority. The Preliminary submittal must be approved prior  to the submission of the Final drawings.

6.7.2 Each submittal must be accompanied with a properly completed checklist.

Section 6.8 – Review Scheduling

6.8.1 Submittals to the Approving Authority are processed in order of priority using a queue  system. 

6.8.2 Initial submittal of plans, the resubmission of rejected plans, the resubmission of plans  with conditions requiring revisions for re-submittal and subsequent submittals, are  treated with equal weight. Each is placed in queue based upon the time of receipt of the  submittal, re-submittal or approved meeting as recorded by the approving Authority.

6.8.3 Plans that are in the queue before noon on the first Thursday of each month; will  normally be reviewed at the next Approving Authority meeting (the third Thursday of  each month).

6.8.4 Changes or minor additions to homes under construction, color boards, landscape  changes or other minor items (as determined by the Approving Authority) requiring  formal approval may be allocated priority. These items may be reviewed and ruled on  by the Approving Authority as a separate action and the Owner or Architect / Building  Designers notified accordingly.

Section 6.9 – Approving Authority Actions

6.9.1 Following review of submittals, the Approving Authority will provide a written reply of its  findings to the Owner within ten (10) days. Copies of the written replies will be provided  to the Architect / Building Designer for all submittals. 

6.9.2 The reasons(s) for disapproval or conditions required for re-submission, or subsequent  submissions will be stated within the written reply. 

6.9.3 The Approving Authority will retain one (1) copy of the submittal documents for its files.  Extra copies will be available for the applicant to pick up for ten (10) days from the date  of the review and disposed of thereafter.  

Section 6.10 – Preliminary Plan Review Results

6.10.1 Preliminary plan review will result in one of the following determinations by the  Approving Authority:

  • Approved
  • Approved with Conditions
  • Not Approved

Approved – informs the applicant(s) that the submittal plan meets all of the requirements  of the preliminary plan submission, and allows the applicant to proceed to the Final  working drawings.

Approved with Conditions – informs the applicant(s) that the design is acceptable and  the requirements are sufficiently satisfactory to allow the applicant to proceed to the final  design, incorporating the conditions specified by the Approving Authority in its written  comments.

Not Approved – informs applicant the applicant(s) that the conditions required for the  Preliminary design have not been met. The Approving Authority in the written findings  will specify the specific deficiencies. The applicant is not permitted to proceed to the  Final design and is required to resubmit new and/or revised plans to the queue for  Preliminary review.  

Section 6.11 – Final Plan Review Results

6.11.1 Final review results in one of the following determininations by the Approving Authority.  A color board and landscape plans are also required as part of this Final submittal:

  • Approved
  • Approved with Conditions
  • Not Approved

Approved – informs the applicant(s) that the submitted plans meet all of the  requirements for the final submission and results in the Approving Authority stamping  three (3) copies of the plans to indicate approval for construction. Two (2) complete,  approved copies of the plans will be available to the applicant for pick up allowing the  applicant to proceed with a building permit application at the City of Pueblo.  

Approved with Conditions – may result in one of two actions required by the applicant:

  •  Incorporation of the items specified in the written findings and re-submission to the  Approving Authority queue for re-review.
  • Incorporation of the items specified in the written findings and re-submission of three (3)  copies only to the Approving Authority for verification and subsequent sign-off. 

Not Approved – Applicant(s) are informed that the conditions required for Final  submission have not been met. The Approving Authority in its written findings will  specify all deficiencies. The Applicant is required to resubmit revised plans for re-review  and approval.

Section 6.12 – Plan Approval Validation Periods

6.12.1 Upon approval of any plan submittal, the plans will be valid from the date of approval for  the following periods;

Preliminary 90 days  

Final (working drawings) 180 days

6.12.3 Plans whose validity period has expired, and are re-submitted for consideration are  automatically subject to Approving Authority review fees in effect at the time of the re submission request. Approval of previously approved plans whose validity period has  expired is not automatic. The Approving Authority has the option of rejecting these  previously approved plans.  

6.12.4 Previously submitted and approved plans whose validity period has expired will be  subject to a complete review as a preliminary submittal. A complete checklist, current at  the time of the re-submittal is required.

6.12.5 Upon conditional approval of the re-submitted plans, notification of home design  approval will be provided.

Section 6.13 – Schedule Requirements – Constructions

6.13.1 All exterior construction (including roof, wall finishes, windows, doors, decks, porches,  etc.) must be completed and painted (or stained) within one (1) year after the issuance  of the date of the stamped approved plans. All construction materials and equipment,  including sanitary facilities, must be removed from the building site within this same time  period.

Section 6.14 – Schedule Requirements – Landscaping

6.14.1 All landscaping, per the approved landscaping plan, must be installed within fifteen (15)  months of the approved drawing issuance.

Section 6.15 City of Pueblo Requirements

6.15.1 All site improvements and construction in Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1 must meet (or  exceed) all City of Pueblo requirements; as well as, other requirements established by  other governmental agencies.

6.15.2 A building permit is required before any construction can be commenced in the  development. 

6.15.3 Upon completion of construction, a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) must be obtained  from the City of Pueblo and a copy provided to the Approving Authority.  

Section 6.16 – Utility Services

6.16.1 Every person, partnership, company or corporation who shall enter any street right-of way, easement, common space or other property owned by Sawyer Ridge, LLC for the  purpose of placement of electric cable, water or sewer lines, gas pipelines, telephone  cable, television cable or any related construction shall comply with the regulations  established herein.

6.16.2 Furnish, prior to commencement of any activity, evidence of general liability insurance in  the amount of $ 1,000,000.00. Such evidence shall name the Sawyer Ridge, LLC as an  additional insured. In addition, such persons, partnership, company or corporation shall  furnish evidence of Workmen’s Compensation insurance coverage.

6.16.3 Notify Sawyer Ridge, LLC of such entry or excavation at least 48 hours in advance to  the start of the work. In the event of emergency or repair work, notification shall be  given to Sawyer Ridge, LLC offices by noon of the next regular work day.

6.16.4 The contractor prior to the start of any work shall obtain all locations of existing  underground utilities. 

6.16.5 All activity that results in damage to any facility, either private or public, shall be  promptly reported to the respective owners.

6.16.6 All contractors shall comply with the appropriate safety rules and regulations as  necessary to protect their employees and the public. Failure to do so shall be sufficient  grounds to cause suspension of all work activities. 

6.16.7 No modification of existing street surfaces is permitted. 

6.16.8 Compaction of backfill shall be accomplished to achieve 95 % as measured by the  Proctor method. Sawyer Ridge, LLC will require compaction testing by a qualified soils  engineer when necessary. Such testing shall be at the expense of the excavator.

Section 6.17 – Preliminary Plan Submittal

6.17.1 The Preliminary Plan Submittal is intended to provide the Approving Authority with a  detailed representation of the site as it currently exists, and as it is to be configured and  the house exterior as it will appear on the working drawings.. Once approval of the  Preliminary Plan has been obtained, including incorporation of all changes required by  the Approving Authority, only minimal changes should be required on the Final  submission.  

6.17.2 Prerequisites and general requirements.

6.17.2.1 Design Review fee paid.

6.17.2.2 A completed Checklist must accompany the submittal.

6.17.2.3 Individual drawings, listed below, are required. The drawings must be side bound and should be packaged in the order shown. A Cover Sheet showing the lot  number and Owner and Architect / Building Designer names and addresses; and a list of  all the drawings contained in the submittal with their page numbers. The number of  copies of each plan is noted on the Preliminary Design Review Checklist.

  • Cover Sheet
  • Site Plan
  • Floor plans
  • Building Elevations
  • Roof Plan
  • Building Section(s) 

6.17.3 All preliminary sheets shall be 36” x 24”.

6.17.4 Each drawing shall contain the lot number, Owner’s name and Architect / Building  Designer names and addresses and telephone numbers. 

Section 6.18 – Preliminary Site Plan

6.18.1 Site plans shall be drawn at a scale of 1” = 10’-0”. The site plan must show existing  contours shown through all improvements, the edge of the existing street(s), plus the  following:

6.18.1.1 Drainage arrows indicating the resulting proposed surface flows away from and  around the house and to the neighboring properties are required.

6.18.1.2 Show the location on the site of, and the area encompassed by, accessory  equipment such as swing sets, trampolines, antennas, etc. Details of the equipment i.e.,  its profile (elevation views) and overall dimensions, colors, etc., must be included in this  submission. This equipment is required to be as unobtrusive as possible and properly  screened from neighboring properties, common areas and streets with approved  enclosures, evergreen shrubs and/or trees.  

Section 6.19 – Preliminary Building Plans

6.19.1 Plan submittals must include: 

6.19.1.1 All four exterior elevations (labeled north, south, east and west) at a scale of ¼”  = 1’-0” with roof pitch notations and existing (dashed) and proposed (solid) grade lines.

6.19.1.2 Expanded scale drawings of critical areas (i.e. window trim and fenestrations,  deck railings, exterior lights, etc.) 

6.19.1.3 On all elevations indicate gutters and downspouts. Gutters and downspouts are  to be painted with a flat finish paint, which matches the color of the surface to which it is  mounted.  

6.19.1.4 Indicate on all exterior elevations locations of all proposed exterior light fixtures.  If lights are to be located in the soffit or otherwise obscured from view from outside the  house, provide notes on the drawings to indicate the type of lighting and dash-in  locations. Lights are required at all exterior entrances. 

6.19.1.5 Floor plans and roof plans should be oriented the same direction as the site  plan and be of a scale of ¼” = 1’-0”. Provide a north arrow on all plan drawings.

6.19.1.6 A material and color matrix schedule is required; preferably included on the  front elevation sheet. Refer to the enclosed sample form.

Section 6.20 – Final (Working Drawing) Submittal

6.20.1 The Final Submittal is intended to provide a complete set of drawings for construction of  the house and other site improvements, along with additional information as listed  below. These drawings, in addition to being used by the Builder to actually construct the  house (including the landscaping improvement), are used by the City of Pueblo and the  Approving Authority as the basis for field observations to verify that all improvements  have in fact been made as specified on the final approved working drawings. Items  installed that are not in compliance with the approved drawings are subject to rejection  and subsequent correction at the Owner’s expense. The drawings submitted to Sawyer  Ridge, LLC and the City of Pueblo must be identical and made from the same master.  

6.20.2 A completed Checklist must accompany the final submittal.

6.20.3 Prerequisites and General Requirements.

6.20.3.1 Incorporation of all changes requested by the Approving Authority as part of the  Preliminary plan approval. Any changes made, not specifically requested by the Approving Authority, must be brought to the attention of the approving Authority.  Unauthorized changes may result in rejection and require a submittal of Preliminary  plans with all attendant fees. 

6.20.3.2 Architect’s seal on all drawings.

6.20.3.3 Owner’s signature indicating approval and acceptance of the final plans on each  of the drawings. By his/her signature, the Owner also accepts responsibility for insuring  completion of all improvements indicated on the drawings and for compliance with the  rules and regulations set forth in the Covenants and this document.  

Section 6.21 – Final Site Plan

6.21.1 As approved with any incorporated changes from the preliminary plan submittal.

Section 6.22 – Final Landscaping Plan

6.22.1 The landscape plan must be prepared in compliance with details outlined previously  within this documents.

Section 6.23 – Final Building Plans

6.23.1 As approved with incorporated changes from the preliminary plan submittal.

6.23.2 Construction (working) drawings must meet City of Pueblo requirements for building  permits. The plans submitted to the Approving Authority shall be identical to those  submitted to the City of Pueblo.  

6.23.3 The plans must show all building projections including chimney flues, gutters,  downspouts, utility boxes, etc. The color of these building projections shall match the  color of the surface from which they project. 

6.23.4 Indicate the colors of all exterior materials using the required material / finish color  schedule included. 

6.23.5 Show wall sections and exterior details including chimneys, exterior stairs and decks,  railing and supports. 

Section 6.24 – Other Submittal Requirements

6.24.1 Number of copies. The number of copies of each plan is noted on the Final Drawing  Review Checklist.

6.24.2 Color boards are required and must clearly show samples of colors and materials to be  used on the exterior of the house. (. These items include samples of the roofing,  exterior wall finish (i.e. stucco, rock, brick, etc.), color samples of window trim, fascia  boards, etc. A color photograph or “cut-sheet” for the proposed windows is also required.

6.24.3 A legible “Exterior Finish Schedule” identical to the one submitted with the submittal  packets must be firmly attached to the rear of the board. Each board shall be clearly  labeled with the specific lot and block number and the contacting information for the  Architect / Building Designer.  

6.24.4 In order to better evaluate the proposed colors, the following approximate sized samples  are required:

  1. Roofing sample 3” x 12”
  2. Stucco wall finish 8” x 8”
  3. Trim (fascias, window, etc.) 2” x 4”
  4. Window frames 2” x 4”
  5. Gutters and downspouts 2” x 2”
  6. Soffit 2” x 4”

 appropriate to show color palette 

6.24.5 The finished construction material(s) must be identical to the sample material(s) and  must be treated in the same manner as that proposed for the house; that is, the number  of coats applied to the sample and the means of application (spray, brush, etc.) must be  the same as proposed for the house. Stucco finishes must be identical (i.e. same  application and finish) as that proposed for the house on the approved sample.

Section 6.25 – General Liability Insurance

6.25.1 Evidence of general liability insurance, satisfactory to Sawyer Ridge, LLC, in the amount  of $ 1,000,000.00. Such evidence shall name Sawyer Ridge, LLC as an additional  insured, and shall show coverage for the duration of the project. In addition, each entity  shall furnish evidence of Workers Compensation Insurance coverage sufficient to cover  all employees engaged in the project for the duration of the project.

Section 6.26 – Home and Landscape Inspection

6.26.1 At the conclusion of construction, the Owner shall request a final inspection of the  premises from the Approving Authority. A copy of the City of Pueblo Certificate of  Occupancy must be supplied to the Approving Authority.

6.26.2 The inspection is for purposes of determining apparent compliance with the approved  plans on file with Sawyer Ridge, LLC, including finished grading, exterior appearance,  color, finish, landscaping, etc.. 

6.26.3 The Approving Authority will issue a final checklist indicating the home and/or  landscaping has been satisfactorily completed in accordance with the approved plans.

6.26.4 In the event the premises are unoccupied, the Owner remains responsible for the  maintenance of the outward appearance of the building and the site. Any violation may,  after ten (10) days written notice to the last know address of the Owner, be corrected by  Sawyer Ridge, LLC and charged to the Owner. 

Section 6.27 – Mandatory Builders Conference

6.27.1 Prior to the start of construction, the Owner shall meet with representatives of Sawyer  Ridge, LLC to discuss the logistics of construction. Items to be discussed include, but  are not limited to: 

6.27.1.1 Physical identification of lot lines.

6.27.1.2 Location of parking for workers during construction 

6.27.1.3 Access and egress to the site during construction

6.27.1.4 Covering of dumpsters and disposal of trash.

6.27.1.5 Disposal of excess excavated materials. 

6.27.1.6 On-site building material storage.

6.27.1.7 Hours and days of construction activity.

6.27.1.8 Location, use and maintenance of required temporary sanitation facilities. 

6.27.1.9 All moving vehicles carrying loose materials, such as dirt, sand, gravel, etc. are  required to be covered.

6.27.1.10 Construction debris must be picked from the work site each day.

Section 6.28 – Changes During Construction

6.28.1 Any change in color(s), texture(s), material(s), finish(es), location of windows, dormers,  vents, etc. that affect the exterior appearance of the building must be submitted to  approved by the Approving Authority before such changes can be made. Changes will  be reviewed at the time of the regularly schedules Design Review meetings. Any  changes in elements of the Color Board must be re-submitted as a new Color Board. A  change affecting the exterior appearance shall be submitted as a revision to the original drawings. The Approving Authority must approve all changes before they can be  affected. The approved change(s) will be inserted in the file drawings. Changes  submitted by letter and not accompanied by a revised drawings will not be approved.

Section 6.29 – Inspections

6.29.1 Sawyer Ridge, LLC, through its representative(s), may inspect the work of each home  as it is built. Any noncompliance may be cause for a Stop Work Order notification to the  Owner, which can be enforced by injunctive action by the City of Pueblo at the expense  of the Owner. 

Section 6.30 – Sign Standards

6.30.1 Design Standards for various signs allowed at Sawyer Ridge, LLC have been  established and are provided herein. Design approval of signs is required only as  specified in signage section of these Guidelines.

Section 7.1 – Approval Requirements

7.1.1 And additions or alterations affecting the finished grade of the site, exterior appearance  (including color) of any structure or major landscaping change requires written approval  of the Approving Authority.  

7.1.2 The following paragraphs apply to new homes designed and built for lot owners as well  as homes previously designed and built by prior owners and purchased or re-purchased  in a completed state. 

Section 7.2 – Property Owner Responsibilities

7.2.1 The property owner must submit a request, either via letter or drawings, to the Approving  Authority for the addition or alteration proposed. The submission must be sufficient in  detail to allow the Approving Authority to evaluate the change request. For major  changes, a review fee may be charged, depending upon the scope of the addition or  alteration. See the Fee Schedule for the specific amount of fee to be charged. 

Section 7.3 – House Exterior

7.3.1 Any change of exterior material or change resulting in a change of appearance of the  house, including exterior finishes, doors, windows, attached yard enclosures, skylights,  decks, deck railings, roofs, etc., must have prior written approval of the Approving  Authority.  

Section 7.4 – Repainting

7.4.1 Any change in paint or stain color must be approved by the Approving Authority. Samples of the colors to be applied must be submitted to the Approving Authority for formal written approval. Re-staining or re-painting with the existing colors, as previously approved, does not require approval.

Section 7.5 – Landscaping

7.5.1 All property owners are encouraged to plant additional indigenous trees and shrubs.  There is no minimum planting size requirement. Approval for planting additional trees  and shrubs is not required by the Approving Authority, provided the following  requirements are adhered to:  

7.5.1.1 Trees or shrubs are not to be planted so as to define property lines.

7.5.1.2 Trees or shrubs are not to be planted where, when fully grown, they interfere with the  views or solar exposure of neighboring properties, or impair the egress view from  driveways or views at street corners. 

Section 7.6 – Exterior Lighting

7.6.1 Any additions, replacements or alterations to exterior lighting must have Approving  Authority written approval. 

Section 7.7 – Accessory Equipment / Site Structures

7.7.1 Installation of accessory equipment and/or structures is discouraged.

Section 7.8 – Changes in New Owner Unfinished Home (Spec Homes)

7.8.1 Changes in exterior design or landscaping to property that has been purchased by new  owners after the approval of the Final Plans, but were not completed at the time of  purchase, may be made only in conformance with the following conditions:  

7.8.1.1 Any change that would result in a change of exterior physical appearance of the  property must have prior written approval from the Approving Authority. This includes  changes in site design, house structure, materials and colors. 

7.8.1.2 Changes in landscaping material or location of planting from the approved landscape  plan require written approval from the Approving Authority. Additions may be made to  the approved landscape plan without Approving Authority approval, provided they meet  the requirements specified in Section 7.5 above. 

Section 8.2 – Construction Fines

8.2.1 The Approving Authority may assess fines for violations of any provisions of these  guidelines as follows: First violation, fifty dollars ($ 50.00); second violation, one  hundred and fifty dollars ($ 150.00) and subsequent violations, five hundred dollars ($  500.00). In the event any person or entity fails to cure (or fails to commence and  proceed with diligence to complete the work necessary to cure) any violation of the  Design Guidelines, including these Construction Regulations, within ten (10) days after  receipt of written notice from the Approving Authority designating the particular violation,  the Approving Authority shall have the power and authority to impose upon the person or  entity subsequent fine as outlined above. There shall be no limit to the number or  aggregate amount of Violation Fines, which may be levied against a person or entity for  the same violation if not timely addressed. The Violation fines, together with interest at  the highest lawful rate per annum and any costs of collection, including reasonable  attorneys’ fees shall be a continuing lien upon the Lot against which the Violation Fine is  made. Continued failure to comply may cause the Approving Authority to pursue legal  remedy in the form of a “stop work” injunction or punitive damages. .

Section 8.3 – Erosion Control

8.3.1 Erosion control measures must be used during all phases of construction activities. A  silt fence will be installed around the perimeter of the construction area and maintained  throughout the project duration. 

Section 8.4 – Health and Safety Compliance

8.4.1 All applicable statues, ordinances or rules pertaining to safety and health, hazardous  materials, and toxic substances and wastes, including all relevant Occupational Safety  and Health Act (OSHA) regulations and guidelines must be observed at all times. 

Section 8.5 – Construction Trailers

8.5.1 Upon commencement of construction, a construction trailer or portable field office may  be located on the building site; clear of all required building setbacks and easements.  The type, size and color of any portable office must be approved by the Approving Authority prior to its placement on the site. The field office may not be  placed on-site earlier than two weeks prior to continuous construction activity. At the  same time, provisions for temporary power and telephone will be determined. A  construction trailer may not remain on-site for a period of time exceeding six months  without written approval of the Approving Authority.

Section 8.6 – Trash Receptacles and Debris Removal

8.6.1 Owners and builders shall clean up all trash and debris at the end of each day. An  approved trash receptacle must remain on-site at all times for the purpose of containing  all lightweight materials and packaging. The receptacle must be positioned on site  alongside the access drive, clear of side and rear setbacks, adjacent street right-of-ways  and neighboring properties. Trash receptacles must be emptied on a timely basis to  avoid overflow of refuse; disposal shall be at a suitable off-site facility. Owners and  builders are prohibited from dumping, burying or burning trash anywhere on the Lot or in  Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1. Heavy debris, such as broken stone, wood scrap or the like  must be removed from the site immediately upon completion of the work of each trade  that has generated the debris.

8.6.2 All concrete wash-out, from both trucks and mixers, must occur within the Building site  of the Lot in a location where it will ultimately be concealed by structure or covered  backfill. Washout in street right-of-ways, setbacks or on adjacent properties is strictly  prohibited.

8.6.3 During the construction period, each construction site shall be kept neat and shall be  properly policed to prevent it from becoming a public eyesore or detriment to other lots  and open spaces. Any clean up costs incurred by Sawyer Ridge, LLC in enforcing these requirements shall be payable by the Owner. Dirt, mud or debris resulting from activity  on each construction site shall be promptly removed from all public streets, open spaces  and neighboring properties.

Section 8.7 – Sanitary Facilities

8.7.1 Each Owner or Builder shall be responsible for providing adequate sanitary facilities for  his construction workers and sub-contractors. Portable toilets must be located within the  Building site, clear of setbacks. All sanitary facilities shall be maintained regularly to  prevent odor pollution to all adjoining properties. 

Section 8.8 – Vehicles and Parking Areas

8.8.1 Construction crews will not park on, or otherwise use, undeveloped portions of lots or  open space. All vehicles shall be parked within the building site. During very busy  construction periods involving multiple trades such that all construction vehicles cannot  be confined to the site proper, the overflow vehicles may be temporarily parked along  the street; during these limited occurrences, vehicles must not block any street access to  adjoining properties to allow continual unconstrained access by normal traffic and  emergency vehicles. Vehicles may not be parked on neighboring lots, in nearby  driveways or on open space. Changing oil or other vehicle maintenance is prohibited. 

Section 8.9 – Dust and Noise Control

8.9.1 The builder and sub-contractors shall be responsible for controlling dust and noise from  the construction site, including the removal of dirt and mud from public streets that is a  result of the construction activities on the site. 

8.9.2 The sound of radios and other audio equipment must no be audible beyond the property  perimeter of the Lot; repeated violations of this provision will result in the total prohibition  of any on-site use of radios and audio equipment during construction.

Section 8.10 – Materials Deliveries

8.10.1 All building materials, equipment and machinery required to construct a residence on  any lot at Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1 must be delivered to and remain within the building  site, clear of all setbacks. This includes all building materials, earthmoving equipment,  trailers, generators, mixers, cranes and any other equipment or machinery that will  remain overnight. Material delivery trucks may not drive across adjacent lots or open  space to access the construction site.  

Section 8.11 – Firearms

8.11.1 The possession or discharge on any type of firearm by construction personnel on any  construction site, open space or street within Sawyer Ridge Filing No. 1 is prohibited. 

Section 8.12 – Alcohol and Controlled Substances

8.12.1 The consumption of alcohol or use of any controlled substance by construction  personnel on any construction site, open space or street within Sawyer Ridge Filing No.  1 is prohibited. 

Section 8.14 – Pets

8.14.1 A member of any construction crew may bring no pets, particularly dogs, onto the  property.

Section 8.15 – Restoration of Property

8.15.1 Upon completion of construction, each Owner and Builder shall clean the construction  site and repair all property which has been damaged, including but not limited to,  restoring grades, and repair of streets, signs and fencing.

Section 8.16 – Construction Signage

8.16.1 Temporary construction signage shall be limited to the requirements of these Design  Guidelines.