Landscape issues are the most common type of violation issued by the Association. The governing documents set for the rules for landscaping, both in the front and rear yards of properties.
If you plan to make any changes to your landscape, please submit an application for Design Review Committee approval. All exterior modifications require DRC approval. If adjustments are made before approval is secured, you could be required to return the landscape to its previous state.
Minimum Requirements
The Design Guidelines (PDF) outline the minimum landscape requirements and guidelines for properties within the Village at Vistancia. Among these requirements:
Each front yard must contain at least four different species of shrubs and/or groundcover.
A minimum of two trees – 24-inch box minimum – is required for each front yard. One of the two trees must be planted between four feet and eight feet behind the sidewalk or curb, if no sidewalk exists. Trees should be planted at least 15 feet apart; if they need to be planted closer, they should be the same species.
At least 50 percent of front yard landscape should include organic groundcover. This applies to shrubs, turf and other groundcovers at ground plane only and doesn’t include tree canopies. Use these guidelines to help accomplish this goal:
One 24-inch box tree per 1,000 square feet, located between street and front building setback; minimum of two 24-inch box trees per front yard
One 15-gallon accent plant per 500 square feet
Seven five-gallon tall shrubs, small shrubs or cacti per 500 square feet
Twelve one-gallon groundcovers per 500 square feet
Groundcover within the first three feet of landscape adjacent to pavement must be less than 18 inches tall
Full coverage of rock mulch
Automatic irrigation systems are required for all planting areas.
Review the Design Guidelines for additional details regarding these and other requirements.
Plants
Appendix C of the Design Guidelines (PDF) lists acceptable plants to be used in front- and rear-year landscaping, as well as prohibited plants. Please consult this list before selecting plants.
The Design Review Committee reserves the right to update the accepted and prohibited plant lists at any time.
Trees
Keep the following in mind when working with trees in your landscape:
Trees growing near sidewalks or roadways are required to have a minimum clearance of eight feet.
Issues stemming from trees growing near shared walls are neighbor-to-neighbor issues. First, try addressing the matter with your neighbor. If that is unsuccessful, you have the right to trim branches and leaves hanging over the wall and onto your property.
When trimming trees, properly dispose of branches and debris. Do no dump tree trimmings into washes or common areas.
Weeds
Please keep landscaping free of weeds. Exercise preventative care to avoid weed growth and save the hassle of having to pull them.
General Maintenance
Blackstone at Vistancia’s landscape contractor, DLC Resources, provides regular tips for maintaining and sustaining your landscape on our community blog.