BLOCK 5 HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION - Keys-Caldwellkeys-caldwell.com/association_sub-web/SW5/... · 1...
Transcript of BLOCK 5 HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION - Keys-Caldwellkeys-caldwell.com/association_sub-web/SW5/... · 1...
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BLOCK 5 HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
SOUTHWOOD, VENICE FLORIDA
HOMEOWNER’S HANDBOOK
A CONDENSED VERSION OF THE
COVENANTS, STANDARDS AND RULES
This booklet is to be used as a guide only. It is not an official document and is not a complete text of the Covenants, Standards and Rules. The intent of the booklet is to give homeowners an overview of information. If a fuller understanding of an item is required the Florida State Statutes, the Master Association or the Block 5 HOA documents should be reviewed. Copies of the supporting documents are available from the Keys-Caldwell web site. This booklet was approved by the Block 5 Board on 10/24/15.
UPDATED 3/1/16
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Table of Contents
Architectural Review Committee Process………………………….8
Architectural Review Request Form………………………………..10
Association Dues………………………………………………….….6
Board of Directors……………………………………………….……4
Committees……………………………………………………….……5
Committee Chairpersons………………………………….…………4
Emergency Contact List………………………………………………7
Exterior Paint Colors………………………….……….………………11
Facebook / Website……………………………………………………11
Fruit Trees……………………………………………………………...12
Garage Doors……………………………………………………….…12
Garage Sales…………………………………………………………..12
Home and Lot Maintenance…………………………….…………….12
Hurricane Shutters……………………………………………..………14
Landscaping/Landscape Ornaments…………………………………14-16
Mailboxes……………………………………………………………….17
Newsletter………………………………………………………………17
Parking…………………………………………………………………..19
Pets………………………………………………………………………19
Pool and Cabana Use………………………………………………….18
Preserve Areas (new)………………………………………………….19
Rentals…………………………………………………………………..20
Roofs, Walkways and Driveways……………………………………..20
Security Systems……………………………………………………….20
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Social Events……………………………………………………………21
Street Lights……………………………………………………………..20
Trash Pickup, Recycles, Yard Waste…………………………………21
Tree Replacement………………………………………………………16
Visual Restrictions………………………………………………………22
Verizon FIOS ……………………………………………………………21
Volunteers……………………………………………………………….22
Wildlife……………………………………………………………………22
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Board of Directors for 2015
President………………………………. Judy Houston – 941-493-7860
Vice President………………………… Keith Boehm – 941-492-4373
Treasurer………………………………. Jeanne Bailey – 941-460-8034
Director………………………………… Al Bonatz – 941-492-9350
Secretary………………………………. Helen Helgren - 941-493-2335
The Board of Directors meets on the second Friday of each month at 10 AM in the pool cabana of Block 5. Regular meetings are not held in the summer months of June, July, August and September. All meetings are open and Homeowners are encouraged to attend.
Committee Chairpersons for 2015
Architectural Review (ARC)……… Open
Cabana & Pool……………………. Jim Adams – 408-1936 and
……………………..Loran Matasek - 493-2335
Landscape ………………………… Keith Boehm – 492-4373
Lawn & Irrigation…………………. Al Bonatz - 492-9350
Master Board Representative…… Mollie Johnson - 493-1251
Newsletter………………………… Mollie Johnson - 493-1251
Social ………………………………Jane Mahoney 585-473-6023
Facebook ……………………….... Helen Helgren 493-2335 or Eileen Boehm 492-4373
Direct all questions regarding matters covered above to the chairpersons of those committees.
PLEASE do not call or discuss issues with the contracted professionals who provide the services to Block Five. That is the responsibility of the committee chairperson.
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Committees
Architectural Review Committee (ARC):
Conducts a periodic review of each property to ensure that the standards set forth in the covenants, by-laws, rules and guidelines are being met.
Any and all proposed changes to the exterior of a resident’s property must be submitted in writing and approved by the ARC and the Board of Directors before any changes are made.
Cabana and Pool
Coordinates the services required to maintain the appearance of the pool and cabana area; monitors the pool filter and heating equipment and coordinates repairs; monitors water usage; and arranges for cabana pest control and area cleanliness.
Landscape, Lawn and Irrigation
Coordinates with the contracted professionals to ensure lawn and trimming functions are performed to standard. Monitors the general condition of the lawns as it relates to pest, weed and fertilization control and works with contracted professionals to correct any problems. Monitors lawn and garden sprinklers and makes repairs when necessary. Coordinates with contracted professionals to maintain the system and resolve any problems.
Socials
An ad hoc social committee hosts periodic socials and collects funds from attendees when necessary to defray the cost for supplies and reimburse hosts for food or other needed purchases. Notices of events are sent out by the committee.
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Association Dues
Block Five Association dues are paid quarterly: January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1.
Checks should be made payable to Southwood Block Five Homeowners Association and mailed to:
Block 5 Homeowners Association
c/o Keys-Caldwell
1162 Indian Hills Blvd.
Venice, FL 34293-2000
Southwood Master Association dues are paid annually on January 1st, payable to Southwood Property Association Inc. and mailed to:
Southwood Property Association Inc.,
c/o Keys- Caldwell
1162 Indian Hills Blvd.
Venice, FL 34293-2000
Management Company Contact is Jim Kraut at:
[email protected] or phone 941-408-8293
Copies of HOA documents are available at the Keys-Caldwell website http://www.keys-caldwell.com/ under the References tab on their main menu.
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Emergency Contact List
The secretary of the Block 5 Board maintains an Emergency Contact List for homeowners who
wish to participate. The purpose of this list is to have the name(s) of those who have a key to
your home in case you are home but unable to get help or get to the door; become medically
incapacitate and need someone to act on your behalf; or if you are away and a problem with
your home occurs that requires immediate attention.
It is the responsibility of each participating homeowner to keep the information current on the
Emergency Contact List. Advise the secretary of any changes that should be made to the list.
The Information needed is:
1. Your name, address and telephone number.
2. The name, address and telephone number of a local contact.
3. The name, address and telephone number of a family member.
4. The name and telephone number of people who have a key to your home to enable emergency
service personnel to access your home in the event of an emergency where time could be of the
essence.
5. Your e‐mail address, if you have one.
6. Whether or not you have a life alert system in place at home.
NOTE: Please contact the secretary of Block Five for an Emergency Contact form, which you can fill out
and return to the Board. That name is listed on the officer’s page of this handbook.
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ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE (ARC) PROCESS
The ARC has been established by the Board, per the Covenants, to develop written/ published guidelines, standards and rules for the community that will preserve the appearance and value of our homes. The guidelines, standards and rules, once approved by the Board, will apply to all lot owners, leasees (renters), guests/visitors, and the association for common areas in Block 5. The ARC, along with members from the management company, will make periodic reviews of homes and common areas within Block 5, to ensure that high standards for maintenance and appearance are maintained. The following guidelines apply to the ARC:
• The Committee shall consist of not less than 3 or more than 7 members and shall be appointed by the Board. Board members may serve on the ARC.
• The ARC may adapt and promulgate standards for the Block that are not contrary to the Covenants, By-Laws, State Statutes or guidelines. The rules and standards must not unreasonably infringe on or impair an owner’s right to enjoy his property. The rules will be fairly and consistently applied.
• The ARC will send out notices of meetings, keep records (minutes) of the meetings and provide copies to the public. Communication by electronic media (email and facsimile), will require the consent of the specific resident prior to transmission. Meetings are open to the public and require a minimum 48 hours’ notice. Meetings where rules will be amended, or when approval or disapproval of an architectural request by a homeowner will occur, require a 14 day notice of the meeting.
• ARC review is required whenever a homeowner proposes to construct any visible exterior alteration or improvement for an existing home; when maintenance, repair or improvements will result in use of materials of a different type, shade, color or quality than those currently approved; or when significant changes or additions to the landscape are proposed.
• The owner will submit a written application to the ARC for review and approval. The application should contain the information needed to facilitate the review. The required documents may include a site plan, material specification sheets, color and materials samples, landscape designs, plant lists or other documentation that details the work to be done, it’s location and materials to be used or removed.
• The ARC shall have up to 30 days to review the request and approve it, conditionally approve it or deny the request. If additional documentation is required the ARC will notify the owner and an additional reasonable period allowed for the documents to be provided and approved.
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• Once a request is acted upon, the ARC will notify the owner of their action in writing and include the reasons for any disapproval or conditions placed on the request.
• The owner has the right to appeal any denial to the Board providing any documents needed for the Board to make a decision.
• The owner may not start any project until approval has been received. Any work done prior to approval may be required to be removed.
• If the ARC fails to act and notify the owner within 30 days after receipt of all required documents, the request will be considered approved. The exception to this would be any request that requires a change to any Block or Master Covenants.
• Where the ARC or Board has established standards approving certain colors, materials, decorative or other items of routine maintenance, repair or minor improvements, an owner may comply with such standards without formal approval.
• The ARC will maintain records of all proceedings. State Statutes require retention for 7 years.
• Article 9 of the Block Covenants contains additional procedures that apply, e.g. the appeal process.
• The ARC will conduct biannual reviews of lots/ homes within Block 5 to ensure standards of maintenance, repair and appearance are maintained. These will be conducted in October and March, allowing time for the seasonal resident to attend to identified issues. The ARC will notify owners when their property did not conform to existing standards and rules. The owner will have a reasonable amount of time to correct any problems, normally 30 days. The owner may request an extension from the ARC if circumstances prevent timely correction. Owners failing to take proper action to maintain their property may be subject to Board actions.
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SOUTHWOOD BLOCK 5 HOA
REQUEST FOR ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW
Lot #: ________________ Request Date: _________________
Owner(s) Name(s): __________________________________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________________
Proposed Changes: _________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________.
Attach details of the project and materials to be used, include drawings, plans or manufacturer’s brochures in lieu of samples as appropriate. The owner is to obtain all permits or inspections required and will ensure that contractors are licensed and insured for working in Southwood. The owner(s) agree to abide by the ruling of the ARC and will restore property to the original condition if unauthorized changes have been made. The owner(s) authorize email, phone or FAX communication by the ARC/ Board.
Email address: ____________________________________. Phone: _______________________
Owner(s) Signature(s): ________________________________________________ Date: ____________
Return the completed form to any member of the ARC or Keys-Caldwell at 1162 Indian Hills Blvd, Venice, FL 34293. Form may also be emailed. ARC will complete actions within 30 days of receiving all required information.
ARC Review/ Action: Date Received: _________________.
Approved: YES ______ NO _____
Disapproved because: _______________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Modifications required for approval: _______________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________.
Three ARC member signatures required:
Name: ______________________________________ Date: ________________________
Name: ______________________________________ Date: ________________________
Name: ______________________________________ Date: ________________________
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Approved Exterior Colors for
Southwood Block 5 Homes
The Board will not require specific Brands or sources for paint or roof colors. Where brand
names or sources are used it is as a reference only so the homeowner can compare colors.
Homeowners are required to match the stated colors regardless of the source or Brand used.
Exterior stucco and trim paint can be purchased at Scott Paint Store, 1833 Tamiami Trail,
Venice. Phone: 493‐8219
*Exterior stucco house paint: Arizona White. Flat or semi‐gloss paint may be used.
Trim paint and mail box posts: #420 Sandalwood Brown
Driveways/sidewalk concrete sealer Concrete Sand (ensure that the paint is a non‐slip type)
(#706 silicone acrylic concrete sealer)
Awning paint: to restore color to awnings that are still serviceable, use Walmart Acrylic Latex
Satin House and Trim custom color: E‐2/51Y3/KX‐1Y11V‐33. Scott has a similar color called
Southwood Awning.
The ARC must approve any paint selections.
*Other sources for the paint may be available but the color must match those above.
Roof Color: The Spanish style roof tiles will be similar to the Mission Sunset color from Monier
Life Tile or other sources matching the existing roofs in Block 5. Roof replacement requires ARC
approval.
Facebook / Website
A Facebook page is available for social events within Block 5. The site is “southwood block 5” on
Facebook. Contact the administrator for access. The site will be used to inform Block 5 owners/
residents of upcoming events and news affecting the Block. Keys‐Caldwell’s website has a
Southwood Block 5 section with our documents and meeting minutes that can be downloaded.
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Fruit Trees
Owners may maintain fruit trees in patio containers.
The tree must remain pruned to a compact shape and size.
The trees must be treated for insect control.
All fruit that falls must be removed as quickly as possible to prevent rodent problems
before the next mowing.
When the owner is to be gone, provisions must be made with a local person to perform
the above maintenance and care. If not, the Board has the right to have it done
commercially and to bill the owner.
Garage Doors
Garage doors shall be kept in a closed position when not in use for ingress and egress. Garage
doors may also remain open during periods where necessary for yard and home maintenance.
A garage door shall be considered fully closed if the door is not open more than 12 inches from
the sill.
Garage Sales
There is a community‐wide garage sale held once a year on a Saturday to be determined by the
Master Board. Date and time will be posted in the Block Five Pool Cabana, as well as in the
quarterly newsletter. This will be March 12,2016.
No other personal garage/outdoor sales are permitted in Southwood except for a one time
estate sale approved by the Board.
Home and Lot Maintenance
The Master and Block 5 Associations have established easements for maintenance and repair of
common areas and access to and from the common areas and pool area. The Association is
responsible for maintenance, repair and landscaping of the common areas. Individual
homeowners are responsible for maintenance and repair of easements bordering their lot.
These easements are to be maintained to the same standards as the rest of the lot.
Homeowners who place any landscaping or hardscapes in an easement may have to remove
them as required by the Association or a public utility wanting to use the easement for its
intended purpose (utilities, drainage). Maintenance and repair standards will be the same for
the Association and the homeowner.
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Repair and Maintenance of common areas including pool is the responsibility of the
Block 5 Association or the Master.
The homeowner is responsible for maintenance and repair of the house, lawn and
landscaping on a lot. The replacement of diseased, dead or damaged landscaping is the
responsibility of the homeowner. Any change to the landscape (new, replacement or
expansion of existing beds) is to be approved by the ARC.
Each owner is responsible for the maintenance, repair and replacement on his lot and all
improvements (except the irrigation system). Everything is to be kept in good condition and
repair, and in an attractive condition in keeping with the standards throughout the subdivision.
Owner maintenance also includes: painting, repair, replace and care of roofs, gutters,
downspouts, exterior building surfaces, screening and caging, walks, mail boxes and other
exterior improvements. All such maintenance and repair shall conform to such standards as
may be promulgated by the Association.
The irrigation system, lawn mowing, palm frond pruning and shrub pruning are provided
by the Block 5 Association. The Association will repair and maintain the irrigation
system. The irrigation and lawn service contractors are directed by the Board.
Homeowners who have issues with a contractor should bring that to the Board’s
attention and let them deal with the contractor.
Tree pruning is the responsibility of the homeowner (Association in common/ pool
areas). Trees such as oaks should be pruned every 3‐4 years or when limbs are over‐
growing the roof or street. Tree pruning should only be done by an experienced
contractor who is licensed and insured in the County. Using a certified Arborist is highly
recommended.
Homeowners are responsible for removing trash, landscape and construction debris and
any unsightly materials from their lots. Issues with timely and proper removal can be
referred to Code Enforcement of Sarasota County for resolution. They can be reached
at 861‐5000.
Trash pick‐up is per the County schedule. Trash containers should not be placed at the
curb before 6:00 PM the evening before pick‐up. Trash containers should be placed in
the garage or enclosure by dark on trash day. Homeowners should schedule bulk pick‐
up with the County.
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Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane protection must have ARC approval in addition to conforming to current state codes
for our area and follow the guidelines below:
Roll‐downs, accordion, and Bahama‐type shutters that will remain up year round should
be white in color.
Panel shutters or other types that will remain up for the entire hurricane season (or
longer for seasonal residents) and are visible from the street shall be white in color or of
clear polycarbonate.
Shutters that will be in place only during hurricane alerts or short vacation periods can
be of mill finish or white in color or clear polycarbonate.
The use of plywood is permitted only during hurricane alerts and should be removed as
soon as the threat to your home is past.
Exceptions to the above standards must be approved by the ARC and the Board.
Landscaping
All homeowners are required to maintain their landscaping in a manner that preserves and
enhances the environment of our community and home values. Each homeowner is required to
install and maintain the landscaping on his/ her lot including any easement areas up to the
pavement edge of any roadway or the waterline of any pond/ lake. The exceptions to this
would be the Preserve area and Master/ Block 5 maintained areas. Whenever the owner wants
to makes major changes or improvements to the landscaping (including extending existing
beds) prior ARC approval is required. The following standards will be used as a guide for
landscapes.
• Dead or diseased plants shall be removed by the home owner. Those removed can be
replaced with similar items without prior approval of the ARC.
• Removal of trees and palms must have prior written approval by the ARC. Replacement
can be Live Oak, Magnolias or other approved canopy or ornamental tree. Replacement
is at the owner’s expense.
• Trees over 4” caliper 4’ above the ground may require approval of the Master HOA per
their covenants. The Master is responsible for tree pruning and removal of dead limbs
for all trees in the common and preserve areas. The Master has a pruning schedule for
each common area. The homeowner with prior Master approval may remove limbs that
pose a danger to their home at their own expense.
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• Homeowners may replace palms with Foxtail Palms, Christmas Palms, Pygmy Date or
Queen Palms.
• Any request for changes to the landscape should be sent to the ARC with copies of the
lot plot, landscape plan showing bed and tree locations, and a plant list.
• No landscaping can be extended in to any Preserve Area. This includes irrigation. These
areas are controlled as natural areas by Sarasota County and they can impose fines if
Preserves are violated by homeowners or the Association.
• When sod or lawn areas are being removed for new or extended beds the changes
should not increase lawn maintenance expenses for the Association or block or impede
easements or the mowers. This includes the 5’ easement between houses for pool/
common area access.
• Lots should maintain a lawn area. Lawns will not be paved or covered with gravel or any
artificial materials. Gravel, wood or rubber mulch can be used in landscaped beds. Use
of other types of mulch must be approved in writing by the ARC. Wood mulches such as
cypress, pine bark or dyed mulches may be used. Rubber mulch should match wood
colors. Block 5 provides 10 bags of wood mulch to homes once a year. Additional wood
mulch is available for a fee of $4.75 from the landscape contractor.
• No artificial plants, grass or trees should be used in landscaped areas visible from the
street.
• The HOA provides lawn service and irrigation for the community. Maintenance, repair or
replacement of the irrigation is the responsibility of Block 5. Any issues with the lawn
service or the irrigation should be reported immediately to the Board/ Committee.
Homeowners should not try to deal directly with the service providers since they have
been advised to get their guidance from the Board/ Committee.
• Fertilizing of the lawn will be by the lawn service, normally 3 – 4 times a year as needed.
Sarasota County prohibits fertilizing lawns and landscapes from June 1 to September 30.
The County also prohibits any fertilizing within 10 feet of any pond/ lake or other water
source year around.
• Homeowners can fertilize their landscape beds and trees as needed for new plantings or
if required based on a soil sample. The exception is within 10’ of a lake/ pond or water
source.
• Homeowners interested in installing a Florida Friendly Landscape should consult the
Extension Service or visit their web site http://fyn.ifas.edu/ .
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Landscape Ornaments
Landscape Ornaments: Are defined as those portable decorative items that are not attached to
the house and include, but are not limited to: statues, fountains, gazing balls, wind chimes, bird
baths and decorative flags. Exceptions to this definition include, but are not limited to: lighting
in landscaped beds, flower pots/ hanging baskets that are in good condition and containing live
flowers, and US, FL state, military service or POW/MIA flags (per Florida Statute 720). Those
ornaments located within a screened entry/porch area are not considered landscape
ornaments.
A maximum of 2 ornaments, visible from the street, will be allowed for each house.
A maximum height of 2 feet by 2 feet wide will be allowed and each item must be
moveable to allow secure storage in the event of a hurricane, named storm or the
resident’s absence for a month or more.
Ornaments may be located only in landscape beds, and not located in the grass/lawn
area or easements as to impede lawn mowing or other maintenance.
May be made of stone, concrete, other natural material or metal, are of good repair and
of neat appearance.
Wind chimes can be placed in trees on the lot. The chimes should not create a noise
nuisance for neighboring lots under Article 10.04. Chimes should be removed for
storms.
Any existing ornaments that do not comply with these standards as of the date of
approval by the Board (10/24/15) will be allowed to remain for the current owners. The
“grandfathered” items are to be removed prior to any future transfer of title.
Any ornaments located in easements are subject to removal by the Master Association
or Block 5 HOA if deemed necessary per Master Association Covenant Article 4.01(b).
Exceptions: Owners can apply to the Board for exceptions providing their reasoning.
Prior approval of the ARC and the Board is required for any exceptions to the standards.
Landscape Tree Replacement Palm Trees
If you wish to add one or more palm trees to your property, at the homeowner’s expense; must
be approved by the Block ARC and must be one of the following trees:
Queen Palm, Foxtail Palm, Pygmy Palm or Christmas Palm
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Other Trees
Homeowners wishing to replace a non‐palm tree for any reason must seek approval from the
Block ARC. All trees lost due to storms must be promptly replaced at the homeowner’s
expense.
Mail Boxes
Homeowners are required to maintain, repair and replace existing mail boxes as needed. Mail
boxes should be cleaned of any dirt, mold or mildew periodically as needed. The currently
existing style, numbering and color of the boxes have been approved by the Board and will not
be changed without prior Board approval. Owners will replace boxes and posts that have
deteriorated and present an eyesore.
Shared mail box posts are the responsibility of both homeowners who should work together to
repair, paint and replace them. The wood post is to be painted with the approved Sandalwood
Brown color available from Scott Paint.
Provided mail boxes and posts are replaced by the currently approved style, lettering and colors
prior ARC approval is not required.
Newsletter
The Southwood newsletter is produced and distributed quarterly by the Master Board in
March, June, September and December.
Residents, who will be away during those distribution times and want to receive the
Newsletter, must provide the block secretary with stamped self‐addressed envelopes before
leaving Southwood. The current cost of postage for the mailing is 49 cents. If there are
newsworthy events that residents would like to see in the Newsletter, please contact the block
Newsletter reporter listed in the committee directory.
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Pool and Cabana Use
The hours of use are from dawn to dusk.
The Pool Rules include:
The swimming pool is for the use of Block five residents and their guests.
Proper attire must be worn at all times in the pool area.
Shower before entering the pool, turn shower off. No soap or shampoo.
No glass is allowed in the pool area, please use plastic or paper cups.
No running, jumping, diving, water sports or unruly play is allowed.
Please refrain from loud noise such as radios, as homes are nearby.
CHILDREN UNDER 16 MUST BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT.
DIAPER AGE CHILDREN MUST HAVE ON SUITABLE DIAPERS FOR SWIMMING.
Only soft flotation devices may be used in the pool.
Chairs and tables must be put back in place as they were found, and all umbrellas must
be put in the closed position when leaving.
Pool capacity is 20 persons maximum.
Animals are not allowed in the pool area.
Alcoholic beverages are allowed in the pool area. Please drink responsibly.
Cabana Rules Are:
The cabana must be left clean, take your trash with you!
The refrigerator is for use at association gatherings only and at other times it is
unplugged and left open.
The grill is strictly for use by the association for scheduled social events. It may not be
used by any individual homeowner for a personal event.
The cabana and pool area are not available to be reserved for private parties.
Pool committee volunteers maintain the cabana and pool for your benefit. Please be
considerate of the other residents when using the pool and cabana.
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Parking
Overnight street parking is not allowed in Southwood by the Master Board. Cars of overnight
visitors must be parked on your driveway. No Commercial trucks, vans or other service vehicles
can remain in Southwood except for temporary parking unless within an enclosed garage.
Temporary parking means while being used to provide service or deliveries to owners. No
owner may have more than one vehicle regularly parked in a driveway. Owners of vans, pickup
trucks, SUVs or other similar vehicles in good physical and operating condition, may park it on
the driveway of their Lot. Exceptions for overnight street parking will have to be requested
from the Master Association.
Pets
Pets are welcome in Southwood and there are no breed or size restrictions. Pets are considered
cats, dogs or other household pets. No livestock or pets raised for commercial purposes are
allowed. Pets must be on a leash when outside the home or an enclosed area. Owners are
responsible for the actions of their pets and are required to clean up after their animals. Pets
may be walked on the common ground areas on the perimeter of Southwood. These areas are
for the enjoyment of all and pet owners must clean up any excrement. Pets considered a
nuisance or an unreasonable annoyance due to excessive noise, owner’s failure to clean up
after them or other actions may be ordered removed by the Board.
Preserve Areas
Two of the common areas between the lake and Spicetree Street are designated by Sarasota
County as Preserves. These areas are to be maintained as natural areas containing only Florida
native plants. Maintenance and preservation of these areas are strictly controlled and enforced
by the County. While homeowners may prune tree limbs growing outside the Preserve onto
their property they cannot enter or do any maintenance work inside the Preserve. Any
maintenance work within the Preserve must be done by a County approved landscape company
and in accordance with a County approved plan. The Master Board coordinates maintenance
with the County for all Blocks. Contact any Board member if you have questions about the
Preserve.
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Rentals
If a Southwood homeowner wishes to rent his or her residence, prior approval is required from
the Master Board. A rental Form can be obtained from the Master Board Representative for
Block 5, and returned to the Board after the required information has been completed.
The minimum rental period in Southwood is six (6) months.
Renters must agree to abide by the same HOA Covenants, By‐Laws, rules, standards and
guidelines as homeowners.
Roofs, Walkways and Driveways
Roof cleaning is the responsibility of each homeowner in Block Five, and should be done when
the roof starts to show black mold buildup (usually about every 2 to 3 years). If you do not
monitor your residence, you will receive a written notice from the ARC to clean your roof. Tile
manufactures do not recommend pressure washing.
Cleaning of driveways and the walks to the homeowner’s front door, as well as the gutters,
lanai and concrete pads are also the responsibility of the homeowner. This work can be done
by the homeowner or contracted to a professional.
Security Systems
Each home in Block Five is equipped with a security system, which is maintained and monitored
by Guardian Security Systems. The Homeowner pays the monthly service charge for each
system.
New residents should contact Guardian Security Systems at 1‐800‐STAYOUT, (1‐800‐782‐9688),
to arrange for a representative to provide instruction on the operation of the system.
If your security system signals an alarm requiring a response by the Sarasota County Sheriff’s
Department, there is no charge for an initial visit. However, if there are additional false alarms,
a fee will be levied by the Sheriff.
Street Lights
Street lights are maintained by the Master Board. To report street light problems contact a
member of the SPOA Board or Keys‐Caldwell at 941‐408‐8293.
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Social Events
On the first Friday of each month, the residents of Block Five usually have a social gathering at
the pool cabana, beginning at 5 pm. Residents bring the beverage of their choice, alcoholic or
non‐alcoholic and an appetizer to share. Individuals should also supply their own plastic
drinking cup, plates and napkins.
The Social Committee meets every January to plan the monthly social events for the year. A
notice will be sent to all residents notifying them of the committee meeting. If interested,
please call the committee chairperson. We urge everyone to participate. For an event at the
cabana, cleaning up afterward is usually easy as there are many hands to help. Some activities
are planned for outside locations, such as a restaurant or club. Either way, these activities
provide a wonderful opportunity to become acquainted with your neighbors in Block Five. Be
sure to attend the social events; you will be glad that you did.
Trash Pickup, Recycles, Yard Waste
Recycle bins, trash containers and yard waste may be set out on Thursday night no earlier than
6 pm for pickup on Friday morning. Recycle bins and trash containers are to be set out at
curbside on one side of the driveway and the yard waste on the other side. The blue recycle bin
is for cans, glass and plastic containers; the red bin is for all paper products. Yard waste is to be
in containers or bags. Loose material is to be bundled in 4‐foot long bundles tied with string or
cord and should not exceed 40 pounds.
Sarasota County mails an annual booklet to residents with details on pickup for oversized items
including discarded appliances, and hazardous materials that must be taken to a county
collection center. This booklet also lists changes in holiday pickup schedules and should be
retained for reference throughout the year. For more information please check out their
website: www.scgov.net. Click on the residents tab and look under solid waste/recycling.
Verizon FIOS
Block Five has contracted with Verizon to provide basic cable services. For information contact
Verizon Bulk Services Business Center at 800‐501‐1172. To contact Verizon Repair call 800‐483‐
1000.
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Visual Screening of Patios, Tanks, Air Conditioning Compressors or
Other Containers Tanks, trash containers and air conditioning compressors must be screened when viewed from
the street by materials approved by the ARC. Patio or privacy screens will follow the same Block
5 Standards:
Visual screening may consist of solid walls, shadow blocks, decorative fence panels, landscaping or any combination thereof.
Screening materials may consist of concrete block, wood or PVC panels. Colors should match the current approved house or trim colors or be white.
Plant material used for screening should be of sufficient height and width when planted that they will be at screening height within 2 ‐ 3 years. Landscaping should be approved by the ARC before installation. A number of Florida Friendly plants can be recommended by the Extension Service.
Volunteers
The Block 5 Association includes an all‐volunteer board and other individuals who donate their
efforts to keep our association well managed and our dues reasonable. This also ensures that
our common property maintains a standard to keep individual property values high.
These include:
properly maintained pool and cabana.
dependable irrigation system to keep lawns adequately watered.
timely information provided to you through notices, meetings and the quarterly
Southwood newsletter.
Time donated by your neighbors also provides social activities to bring neighbors together in
the spirit of friendship. Since we all benefit from this donated time, thank them by donating
your time when asked to do so and volunteer before you are asked. There is always some task
each of us can do to make our block a great place to live. Your help is very much appreciated.
Wildlife
There are alligators and other wildlife in Southwood. For alligators causing a problem, contact
your Master Board representative and they will contact the proper authority for removal. In an
emergency contact the state Wildlife Commission at 888‐404‐3922. For issues with other
animals contact Sarasota County Sheriff’s Animal Services at 941‐861‐9500.