Being a Good Ocean Reach Neighbor Edit page

Being a Good Neighbor: A Friendly Guide to Community Rules

The Covenants and Restrictions for our community were created by the developer and residents to protect homeowners’ rights and promote a peaceful, attractive neighborhood. This guide presents those rules in a more readable and neighborly way, emphasizing common courtesy and respect, while reminding that the official governing documents remain the legal authority. For any questions, please contact a Board member.

A. Vehicles

• Driveways First: Homeowners and guests should use garages or driveways whenever possible. Street parking is discouraged unless necessary.
• Recreational Vehicles: Boats, RVs, campers, ATVs, etc., must not be parked where visible from the street. Short-term exceptions (72 hours or less) are allowed for loading, unloading, or cleaning.
• Access Matters: Do not block driveways or mailboxes.
• No Repairs in Driveways: Vehicle maintenance should not take place in driveways.
• Drive Carefully: The community speed limit is 15 mph. Please drive safely and remind others to do the same.

B. Common Areas

• Keep It Clean: Common areas reflect our community's character. Don’t litter or treat these spaces as personal property. Help by picking up trash if you see it.
• Authorized Use Only: Only authorized personnel should adjust irrigation or lighting systems.

C. Animals

• Pets, Not Farm Animals: Livestock and poultry are not allowed. A maximum of two four-legged pets per household unless approved by the Board.
• Control and Clean Up: Pets must be leashed when outside fenced areas. Owners must pick up pet waste immediately and dispose of it on their own property.

D. Individual Lots

• Curb Appeal Counts: Keep your property neat and free of clutter visible from the street. Items like toys, tools, grills, and lawn materials should be put away when not in use.
• No Hanging Laundry: Clotheslines or visible hanging laundry are not permitted.
• No Businesses: Homes are for residential use only. Commercial activities that disturb neighbors are prohibited.

E. Signs

Only the following signs are permitted:

• One (1) small security sign in both the front and back (max size: 105 sq in).
• One (1) "For Sale" or "For Rent" sign per lot (max size: 36"x24").
  All signs must be ground-mounted and close to the home. Maximum height: 44 inches.

F. Noise

Being a good neighbor means keeping noise levels respectful. Avoid loud activities or disturbances between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m. Continuous barking or other disruptive noises must be addressed.

G. Waste Collection

• Timing: Place trash and recycling bins at the curb no earlier than the evening before pickup.
• Storage: Store bins out of street view as soon as possible after collection.
• Yard Waste: Do not place yard waste outside fences. Bundle and set it at the curb for collection.

H. Enforcement (Covenants Article XII)

The Association and Management Company are responsible for enforcing the rules. Violations may result in warnings or fines. The goal is always to resolve issues respectfully and fairly.

I. Fines

Fines are only issued after due process:

1. First Violation – Warning: A written notice will outline the violation, how to fix it, and a timeframe.
2. Repeat Violation – Hearing: A second notice will invite the Owner to a Board hearing. Owners may bring counsel and present their case. A decision will be issued within 30 days.
3. Fine Structure:
   • 2nd offense: Up to $100
   • 3rd offense: Up to $250
   • 4th and beyond or ongoing issues: Up to $500
     Fines are due within 5 days and may be enforced by lien if unpaid. All fine revenue will be used at the Board’s discretion.
4. Further Action: If unpaid for over 90 days, the matter may proceed to mediation, arbitration, or court (per Florida Statute 720.311).

J. Management

Homeowners and visitors may not direct or interfere with HOA contractors or staff.
Any concerns should be submitted in writing to the Board via email or letter.

Let’s all work together to maintain a respectful, clean, and enjoyable neighborhood. Thank you for Being a Good Neighbor!