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Highland Grove Homeowners Association
Duvall, Wa
Ziply fiber construction has been postponed. You can remove any of the locate flags you have on your property. (Updated 8/23/25)
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What happens if an owner makes changes without ACC approval?No alterations to a structure’s exterior appearance, including color changes, can be made without prior written ACC approval. Unapproved changes may result in the Board or ACC seeking injunctive relief to halt or reverse the work, enforceable in a court of competent jurisdiction. The owner may be responsible for legal costs, including any bond required for injunctive relief (Section 3.2.4 and 3.2.5 of the CC&Rs).
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Who serves on the ACC, and how are members selected?If a member is unable to serve, the Board of Directors selects a replacement. Until a replacement is chosen, the remaining member(s) have full authority to act. The Bylaws further support the Board’s authority to manage such appointments, as Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws grants the Board the power to conduct the Association’s affairs, which includes overseeing committee appointments. The Board may assume the ACC’s responsibilities temporarily or permanently at its discretion (Section 3.6.1 and 3.6.5 of the CC&Rs).
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Is the ACC liable for its decisions, and are members compensated?ACC members are not personally liable for actions taken in good faith, without willful or intentional misconduct, unless covered by insurance (Section 10 of the CC&Rs). The Association indemnifies ACC members against expenses and liabilities incurred in their duties, except in cases of bad faith or unlawful conduct (Section 11 of the CC&Rs). ACC members receive no compensation for their services (Section 3.6.3 of the CC&Rs).
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What must be submitted to the ACC for approval?Owners must submit two complete sets of detailed building and construction plans, landscaping plans, and a site plan showing the location of proposed structures and modifications. These plans must be in a form satisfactory to the ACC, including details on location, exterior color, finish, architecture, height, and materials (Section 3.2.1 and 3.2.2 of the CC&Rs). The Committee shall have thirty (30) days after delivery of all required materials within which to issue its approval or disapproval in writing, with such approval to be indicated by the endorsement of the Committee on the plans and specifications provided. If the ACC fails to respond within 30 days of complete plan submission, the plans are deemed approved. (Section 3.2.2, 3.2.3, and 3.2.4 of the CC&Rs). Before submitting your application, please consult our CC&R’s, which can be found on our Documents web page here, for further information. You can submit your application by email to acc@highlandgrovehoa.com or by postal mail to: Highland Grove Architectural Committee P.O. Box 1356 Duvall, WA 98019 Please include the following information: Application Date Name of property owner & address List of improvements that you want to be reviewed with a detailed explanation for each including materials to be used Indicate timeframe of when you plan on having these improvements done Include drawings/site plans and paint swatches if necessary Include copy of permit from the city if necessary Indicate the best way to contact you if we have any questions Include 2 copies of your request (including the drawings/site plans) Also, please make sure that you check with neighbors on all sides that their views will not be obstructed, port-a-potties will be in a reasonable area of the property, dumpsters will not block traffic, etc.
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How does the ACC review and approve plans?The ACC evaluates plans based on factors such as location, exterior color scheme, finish, architecture, height, impact on views from other lots, appropriateness, and harmony with the community’s development plan. The Committee shall have up to thirty (30) days after delivery of all required materials within which to issue its approval or disapproval in writing, with such approval to be indicated by the endorsement of the Committee on the plans and specifications provided. If the ACC fails to respond within 30 days of complete plan submission, the plans are deemed approved. (Section 3.2.2, 3.2.3, and 3.2.4 of the CC&Rs).
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Are there specific material or design standards enforced by the ACC?Yes, the ACC enforces minimum standards, including: Masonry Chimneys: All exterior chimneys must be constructed of masonry. Wooden Windows: Windows must be vinyl-clad or wood; metal windows are prohibited. Roofs: Only shake cedar shingle, concrete tile or architectural asphalt shingles of at least the quality of CertainTeed presidential roofing is allowed. Siding: Exterior siding must be cedar, stucco, brick, or superior materials approved by the ACC (Section 3.5 of the CC&Rs).
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Can the ACC approve variances from construction standards?Yes, the ACC can approve variances from standards (e.g., setbacks, fence locations) on a case-by-case basis if the owner demonstrates a unique hardship in writing. However, such approvals apply only to the specific lot and do not diminish other limitations in the CC&Rs. Variances must also comply with applicable governmental laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations (Section 3.4.22 of the CC&Rs).
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Can the ACC require tree preservation or removal?The ACC must approve the cutting or removal of any tree with a diameter of six inches or more (measured three feet above ground) unless necessary for approved structures, walkways, or driveways. Trees within 15 feet of a house’s foundation, front, side, or rear walls are exempt for construction purposes. This ensures preservation of the community’s aesthetic and environmental quality (Section 3.4.16 of the CC&Rs). If a tree is removed without ACC approval, the Board or ACC may seek injunctive relief to enforce compliance, potentially requiring the owner to replace the tree or restore the lot to its approved condition (Section 3.2.5 of the CC&Rs). Owners must also comply with any applicable governmental regulations regarding tree removal or replacement, as the CC&Rs require adherence to local laws (Section 3.1 of the CC&Rs). The Board’s authority to adopt rules (Section 6.1 of the CC&Rs; Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws) could further allow the establishment of specific tree replacement policies, which the ACC would enforce.
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What is the purpose of the Architectural Control Committee (ACC)?The ACC ensures uniformity of use, quality of workmanship, materials, design, maintenance, and location of structures within Highland Grove to enhance/maintain the community’s property value, quality of neighborhood life and desirability. It reviews and approves plans for construction or exterior modifications to ensure they align with the community’s standards (Section 3.1 of the CC&Rs).
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What types of projects require ACC approval?Any construction, reconstruction, erection, or alteration of a structure (except wholly interior changes) or modifications altering a structure’s exterior appearance must be approved by the ACC. This includes new construction, any exterior modifications, and landscaping plans (Section 3.2 of the CC&Rs).
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How does the Board ensure compliance with architectural standards?The Architectural Control Committee (ACC), overseen by the Board, reviews plans for construction or exterior modifications to ensure uniformity and quality (Sections 3.2 and 3.6 of the CC&Rs). Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws grants the Board authority to manage the Association’s affairs, including delegating oversight of the ACC. Owners must submit plans to the ACC, and unapproved changes can lead to legal action, such as injunctive relief (Section 3.2.5 of the CC&Rs). The Board may access lots to inspect for compliance, supported by its management powers (Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws).
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What does the Board of Directors do?Article 4, Section 4.2 establishes a Board of at least three members to manage the HOA, adopt rules, set budgets, and enforce covenants. The Board oversees assessments, maintenance of common areas, and rule compliance to promote community welfare (Article 4, Section 4.1)
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Who can be a member of the HOA, and what are my voting rights?Per Article 4, Section 4.3 (referencing Articles of Incorporation, Section 5.1), all lot owners with fee or equitable title are automatically members. Article 4, Sections 4.5-4.7 grant one vote per lot, shared among multiple owners. If you own multiple lots, your total votes cannot exceed the total votes of other members minus one after assessments begin. You may pledge your vote to a mortgagee if in default for 90+ days (Section 4.6).
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When are the dues mailed/emailedThe Highland Grove Homeowners’ Association (HOA) annual dues are mailed via U.S. Mail to homeowners before the beginning of June each year, in accordance with Section 7.3 of the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, Restrictions, Easements, and Reservations (CC&Rs). The dues payment must be received or postmarked by June 30th. Late penalties are assessed starting July 1st at a rate of 12% per annum, calculated monthly, as outlined in Section 8.4 of the CC&Rs. Additionally, unpaid dues may result in a lien being placed on the homeowner’s property, enforceable through foreclosure proceedings if the delinquency persists, as authorized by Sections 8.1 and 8.2 of the CC&Rs.
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What kind of rules can the Board make?Article 6, Section 6.1 empowers the Board to adopt rules to ensure compliance with the CCRs, promote comfortable use and enjoyment, and govern HOA operations. An example could include landscaping rules on weeds present in driveways.
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Does a previous action or approval by the Board or ACC set a precedent for future actions?No, previous actions or approvals by the Board or ACC do not set a precedent for future actions. The CC&Rs explicitly state that the failure of the Board to insist on strict compliance with the Declaration, rules, or regulations, or to exercise any right, serve notice, or institute action in any instance, does not constitute a waiver or relinquishment of those requirements for the future (Section 9 of the CC&Rs). Similarly, any approval of a variance by the ACC, such as for setbacks or fence locations, applies only to the specific lot and instance and does not diminish the limitations imposed by the CC&Rs for other lots or future requests (Section 3.4.22 of the CC&Rs). Each decision is evaluated independently to ensure consistency with the community’s standards.
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What authority does the Highland Grove HOA Board have to enforce rules?The Board of Directors is empowered to adopt, amend, and revoke administrative rules and regulations to ensure compliance with the CC&Rs and promote the community's use and enjoyment (Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws; Section 6.1 of the CC&Rs). These rules are binding on all owners, occupants, and other persons with an interest in the property. The Board can enforce the CC&Rs, Bylaws, and adopted rules, pursuing legal action for damages or injunctive relief if violations occur (Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws; Section 6.2 of the CC&Rs).
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Does the Board need permission to enter a lot?The Board does not require permission to access designated easement areas (e.g., landscaping or fencing easements) for maintenance or inspection, as these are reserved for the Association’s use (Sections 2.3–2.7 of the CC&Rs). For other enforcement actions outside easement areas, Section 3.6 of the Bylaws requires the Board to provide at least 20 days’ written notice of violations (e.g., unpaid assessments or covenant breaches) before taking action, which may include lot access to enforce compliance. Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws supports the Board’s authority to manage and enforce rules, including necessary lot access.
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What happens if I violate a rule or CCR provision?Article 6, Section 6.2 allows the Board to enforce violations through warnings, fines, remediation at your expense, or legal action (e.g., injunctive relief). You’ll receive written or email notice (Article 5) with 14 days to correct, and you can appeal within 14 days to board@highlandgrovehoa.com or by US Mail to PO Box 1356, Duvall, Wa 98019. Fines may become a lien on your lot (Article 8) and a copy will be sent to any applicable lien holder.
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Can I appeal a fine or enforcement action?Yes, per Article 6, Section 6.2 and adopted rules, you can appeal fines or enforcement actions within 14 days by submitting a written request to board@highlandgrovehoa.com or by US Mail to PO Box 1356, Duvall, Wa 98019. The Board will review your case at the next meeting, ensuring fair enforcement (Article 9). Owners have several options to address disputes: Request a Hearing: Owners facing suspension of rights or alleged violations can request to be heard at a Board or special meeting (Section 4.6 of the Bylaws; Section 8.6 of the Articles of Incorporation).
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Are there limits to the Board’s authority?Member Approval: Amending the CC&Rs to change voting power or assessments requires unanimous owner consent (Section 14.4 of the CC&Rs). Bylaw amendments need a majority vote at a meeting with a quorum (Section 9.2 of the Bylaws). Standard of Care: Directors must act with care and loyalty per RCW 24.03 and RCW 64.38.025 (Section 4.2.2 of the Bylaws). Notice Requirements: The Board must provide notice for assessments, meetings, or enforcement actions (Section 3.3 of the Bylaws; Sections 7.3 and 14.1 of the CC&Rs). No Personal Liability: Directors are not liable for good-faith actions, except in cases of willful misconduct or negligence not covered by insurance (Section 4.16 of the Bylaws; Section 10 of the CC&Rs).
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Can the Board access private lots to enforce rules or maintain common areas?Yes, the Board may access lots for maintenance of common areas and easements or to enforce compliance. The CC&Rs establish easements (e.g., landscaping, fencing, utilities) that the Board or its agents can access to perform maintenance or ensure compliance (Sections 2.1–2.7 of the CC&Rs). Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws grants the Board authority to manage and conduct the Association’s affairs, including accessing lots for easement maintenance or to address violations, such as unapproved structures or drainage issues (Sections 3.4.15 and 3.4.21 of the CC&Rs). Lot owners must not interfere with the Association’s use of these areas (Section 2.1.3 of the CC&Rs).
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Can the Board or ACC overlook past violations when enforcing rules in the future?Yes, the Board and ACC can enforce rules without being bound by past instances where violations were not addressed. The CC&Rs clarify that the Board’s receipt of payment (for example, an assessment or fine) or knowledge of a breach without action does not waive the ability to enforce the same or similar provisions later (Section 9 of the CC&Rs). For example, if an unapproved exterior modification was previously overlooked, the Board or ACC can still require compliance for similar future modifications or address the prior violation at any time. This ensures that prior inaction does not limit the Board’s or ACC’s authority to enforce the CC&Rs, Bylaws, or rules moving forward (Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws; Section 6.2 of the CC&Rs).
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How are Board created official rules communicated to homeowners?Article 5 requires written notice of rules or violations, delivered personally, by US mail or email, effective three days after mailing/emailing. All rules are sent to all owners with a 30-day notice period before taking effect.
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What happens if a lot owner violates HOA rules or covenants?If a lot owner violates rules or covenants, the Board can take the following actions: Suspension of Membership Rights: The Board may suspend voting or other membership rights for unpaid assessments (over $100) or covenant violations, after providing at least 20 days’ written notice (Section 3.6 of the Bylaws; Section 5.3 of the Articles of Incorporation). Legal Action: The Board can pursue damages or injunctive relief for violations, such as unapproved exterior modifications (Section 4.2.1 of the Bylaws; Section 6.2 of the CC&Rs). Assessments and Liens: Unpaid assessments result in a lien on the lot, which can be foreclosed (Section 8.1–8.2 of the CC&Rs). Section 7.1 of the Bylaws authorizes the Board to establish funds for operation and maintenance, supporting enforcement actions.
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What are the rules for maintaining my lot and home?Per Article 3, Section 3.4.2, you must keep your lot and home (interior and exterior) in a clean, sanitary condition, free of pests, and in good repair. This includes regular landscaping, painting, and maintenance to ensure a “good appearance.” Article 3, Section 3.4.10 prohibits using lots as dumping grounds for trash or landscaping debris, ensuring compliance with DMC 8.04.030 (nuisances).
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Can I build a fence or make landscaping changes?Article 3, Section 3.4.13 requires Board or Architectural Control Committee (ACC) approval for fences, which must follow designs in Exhibit A (e.g., 6-foot height, specific materials). Landscaping changes, like adding ground cover or trees, also need ACC approval (Article 3, Section 3.6) to ensure uniformity (Article 3, Section 3.1). Please review the Architectural Control Committee FAQ on plan requirements.
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Do I need approval for exterior changes to my home?Yes, Article 3, Section 3.6 requires ACC approval for any exterior changes to structures (e.g., painting, additions, or new constructions) to maintain quality and uniformity (Article 3, Section 3.1). Please review the Architectural Control Committee FAQ on plan requirements.
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Can I display signs on my lot?In the CC&Rs "signs" refer to any visible display, structure, or device on a lot that conveys information, advertisements, or messages to the public, such as posters, placards, or billboards. Section 3.4.8 of the CC&Rs prohibits signs, billboards, or other advertising structures on any lot, except for one "For Sale" or "For Rent" sign per lot. This permitted sign must not exceed five square feet, be placed in a window or on the lot (not in common areas), and receive approval from the Architectural Control Committee (ACC) for design and location. The restriction aims to maintain the community’s aesthetic uniformity, as outlined in Section 3.1 of the CC&Rs. Homeowners must submit sign plans to the ACC, which has 30 days to respond, or the sign is deemed approved (Section 3.2.3 of the CC&Rs). Unauthorized signs may lead to enforcement actions, including removal and potential legal costs (Section 3.2.5 of the CC&Rs). For clarification, contact the Board at PO Box 1356, Duvall, WA 98019, or board@highlandgrovehoa.com
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Are there restrictions on backyard upkeep if it’s behind a fence?Yes, Article 3, Section 3.4 requires all lot areas, including backyards, to be maintained for good appearance.
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What activities are prohibited on my lot?Article 3, Section 3.4.11 bans noxious or offensive activities that annoy or create a nuisance for neighbors, such as excessive noise, odors, or unkempt conditions (e.g., debris piles). Article 3, Section 3.4.10 prohibits using lots as dumping grounds for trash or landscaping debris, ensuring compliance with DMC 8.04.030 (nuisances).
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