Smoke Bush Lane

Frequently Asked Questions About Smoke Bush Lane

What is a Common Interest Community?

A Common Interest Community is a neighborhood in which each owner owns a portion of the community in common with the other owners, and the common elements are maintained by a Home Owners Association. In Smoke Bush Lane, each owner owns his/her individual building, inside and out, and the Home Owners Association owns (and maintains) all of the land.

Do I own my own land?

The land (21.3 acres) is owned by the Smoke Bush Lane Home Owners Association. However, each unit owner has exclusive use of their Limited Common Element as if it were their own ‘yard.’ A Limited Common Element consists of the Building Envelope and the adjoining Limited Common Element, both of which are shown on the Property Plat.

How is the Common Land used or how can homeowners utilize the property?

The Common Land is for the use and enjoyment of every Owner, with the exception of the Limited Common Elements, which are reserved for a singular owner. A portion the Common Land is used for the roadway, driveways and the septic system.

Is this a condo association?

The Home Owners Association functions like a condo association, with the members making all of the decisions.

What is the monthly HOA fee and what does it include?

The HOA fee is $165 per month. The fee covers the maintenance of all of the land: lawn mowing, shrub and plant bed maintenance, snow plowing, trash and recycling, the shared septic system, and association insurance.

What am I responsible for in terms of maintenance on my unit?

Owners maintain their own unit, both inside and outside, like a “typical” home. The owner also maintains Limited Common Elements that serve singularly their unit, such as the driveway and sidewalk to their unit. General maintenance and repairs are done by the owner at their expense while property services such as lawn mowing and driveway/sidewalk snow removal are provided through the HOA.

What are the common walls of the duplex units?

The units are designed so the only “common wall” is the wall separating the owners’ garage from the adjoining garage.

Can I install solar panels?

Yes.

Can I do additional plantings either in the flower beds or have a vegetable garden?

Owners can add flower beds, plantings and other gardens in their Limited Common Element, or outside their Limited Common Element with the HOA Board approval. HOA Board approval is required for all exterior changes and additions in order to maintain the overall appearance of the neighborhood. All owner added gardens are the responsibility of the individual owner to maintain.

Can I rent my unit?

Yes. Rentals must be for a minimum of 6 months duration.

Can I install a fence?

Yes, with Board approval.

Can I have a swing set or playground in my back yard area?

Yes, with Board approval.

Do you allow pets?

Yes, household pets are allowed. They must be friendly and under the owners’ control at all times.

Are there any pet restrictions?

Pets are restricted to “household pets”. They cannot be raised for commercial purposes and cannot be a nuisance to the neighbors.

Can I install an Invisible Fence for my dog(s)?

Yes, with Board approval.

Where does my mail get delivered?

US mail is delivered to your mailbox at the end of Smoke Bush Lane. Your mailing address is the street number on your unit.

How is trash collected?

The HOA contracts with Casella Waste Systems for weekly pick-up for trash and recycling.