Public Comment Period Now Open Until Jan. 31
The IHCA plays a vital role in upholding the enforcement of our community’s governing documents, ensuring a harmonious and thriving neighborhood. Lately, the IHCA Board of Directors has been hard at work reviewing the Use Rules and Restrictions (UR&Rs), Community Wide Standards (CWS), and Architectural Guidelines.
These updates are designed to align with new city ordinances and changes in state and federal laws. They also address evolving community trends, including frequent architectural change requests and recurring non-compliance issues. With thoughtful consideration, the board has revised key portions of these rules this year, setting the stage for a stronger and more cohesive community.
According to the governing documents, the board is required to share proposed rule changes with the community and allow a 30-day public comment period before finalizing them. Feedback will be reviewed during the board meeting on Feb. 24. Based on this input, the board may adjust the rules or approve them as originally presented.
Please note: The IHCA Board of Directors is required to adopt city ordinances and laws into the association’s governing documents.
UPDATED USE, RULES, and RESTRICTIONS:
Air Conditioners
- Updated noise requirements per city and state law
- Permits and approval process required for permanent units and heat pumps
- New guidelines for temporary window units during the hot months
Burning
- New recommendations for outdoor fire pits
- Approval required for permanent, in-ground fire pits
Decks, Patios, Porches
- Approval needed for exterior lighting (excluding holiday light installations)
- New requirements for string lights and permanent house lighting
Holiday Decorations
- Decorations must be secured to owner properties
- Personal lighting or decorations prohibited from IHCA common areas
Flags and Banners
- Display requirements must follow United States Code
NEW! Bees
- Bee-friendly landscaping and small habitats are encouraged; approval required for bee habitats and hives
NEW! Construction Hours
- Set hours for non-emergency construction activity
- City approval needed for activity outside the hourly limits
UPDATED COMMUNITY WIDE STANDARDS:
Yard Standards
- Approval required for altering landscaping in front yards
- Specific landscape materials and edging borders prohibited in front yards
UPDATED ARC GUIDELINES:
Fences
- Electrified fencing prohibited
Turf Landscaping
- Turf prohibited in front yards; allowed in fenced side yards with approval
- Existing artificial turf with prior ARC approval is grandfathered
Painting
- Approval required to repaint a house or fence, even when using the original color
We encourage you to provide feedback to the board on these proposed rule changes by Friday, Jan. 31, at 5 p.m. Email us at IHCAboard@ihcommunity.org. The IHCA staff and board appreciate your feedback!
Read IHCA’s entire list of updated community rules and standards here >>>
As published in the winter 2025 issue of Community Connect magazine.
