Building Guidelines

Building Guidelines

​The LRPOA considers all factors enumerated in the applicable CC&Rs, but a construction plan’s consistency with and impact on neighboring properties are of particular priority. Homeowners are encouraged to design structures which integrate harmoniously into their surroundings. Each plan submission shall be evaluated according to the specific characteristics of the individual site.

The size and massing of a structure should be appropriate to its site and surrounding lots. Lot size, building pad size, visibility, topography and structures in the immediate vicinity all play vital roles in determining appropriate size and massing. A structure must not overpower or dominate the lot. A residential design successful on one lot in Lynn Ranch may be inappropriate to the unique qualities of another lot in Lynn Ranch.

The height and bulk of a new or remodeled structure is an important consideration. The CC&Rs do not focus on a maximum permitted height in feet, and the LRPOA may approve plans which include heights in excess of existing structures in the neighborhood or disapprove plans with a lower maximum height than existing structures in the neighborhood. All factors are weighed.

The aesthetic impact of a very large structure can sometimes be softened using various architectural techniques.

Homes in Lynn Ranch commonly have covered parking for 3 or 4 vehicles. A few homes enjoy 5- or 6-car garages. The CC&Rs anticipate the garage storage of trailers, boats and residential-type machinery. Some homeowners seek to build a garage stall that will accommodate an RV. The additional height required to accommodate an RV stall need not dictate the height of the entire garage structure.

In reviewing submitted plans, the LRPOA will consider whether the relative sizes of the house and the garage(s) are balanced. The LRPOA may disapprove plans calling for the construction of garage or other non-living space of excessive height or bulk.

A neighboring homeowner may be less affected by a large structure on a neighboring lot if that structure is located near the street. Houses are typically located near the street, and the LRPOA may deem it appropriate to permit greater height and bulk near the street. The street offers public views.

Privacy is a key consideration. Private views exist between neighbors. Even an unattended window overlooking a neighboring lot can diminish the sense of privacy. A large structure erected at the rear or near the side property line may have an unacceptable impact on a neighboring homeowner.

Fences over 3 feet tall will generally be required to permit at least 50% visibility when placed such that they would obscure the front view of the house from the street. Fences over 6 feet will generally not be permitted in the front of the property unless the house is above street level, such as on a hill.

The LRPOA will consider the impact of construction on the privacy of neighbors. Most Lynn Ranch lots provide ample space to permit hedges or rows of trees between properties. Vegetative barriers can mitigate privacy concerns somewhat, but “green fences” are not permanent and may be an inadequate remedy where a design plan features an overly-imposing structure.

Elevated windows, for example, dormer windows in a high-pitched one-story roof, may be intrusive on the privacy of neighboring properties.

Plans should design grading and site preparation to reduce erosion and minimize impacts on natural drainage systems.

Lynn Ranch was developed as a rural community without street lights. Exterior lighting should be minimized to preserve Lynn Ranch’s dark skies. Lights should be shielded where necessary to prevent lighting directed toward neighboring properties.

Lynn Ranch also takes pride in being an equestrian community, and goes to great lengths to preserve and maintain its bridle trails. These efforts are pursued in partnership with homeowners upon whose land the paths cross. Landowners are responsible for maintaining the fixed items on their portions of trail (e.g. fences, walls, large trees), while the POA has taken on supervision and regular maintenance duties (e.g. weed abatement, trash removal, safety and signage oversight).