The Core Standard

The Pebble Creek Declaration of Restrictive Covenants establishes a clear baseline for every homeowner. The governing language is in Section 6.2(a):

"All Lots, residences and improvements on the Lots shall be maintained by the Owner, in a neat and attractive condition." โ€” Section 6.2(a), Pebble Creek Declaration of Restrictive Covenants

This "neat and attractive condition" standard is the foundation for all landscaping expectations in Pebble Creek. It means every lot should look well-maintained, cared-for, and consistent with the overall appearance of the neighborhood โ€” not just avoiding outright neglect, but actively keeping things tidy.

Who maintains what?

Individual homeowners are responsible for their own lots. The HOA Association maintains all common property, including the entrance (Tract A), berms (Tract B on Lots 1, 2, 3, 41, 42, & 43), and landscaping along shared areas.

What "Neat and Attractive" Means in Practice

While the covenants don't specify exact mowing heights or schedules, the intent is clear: your yard should look consistently well-kept and contribute positively to the community's overall appearance. Here's what that means for each area:

๐ŸŒฑ Regular Lawn Mowing

  • โœ… Mow your lawn regularly throughout the growing season to keep grass at a reasonable, tidy height
  • โœ… Edge along driveways, sidewalks, and curbs for a clean, finished look
  • โœ… Don't let grass become overgrown, patchy, or visibly neglected
  • โœ… Remove grass clippings from sidewalks and the street after mowing

In Shelby's climate, lawns typically need mowing every 1โ€“2 weeks during spring and summer, and less frequently in fall.

๐ŸŒณ Tree & Bush Trimming

  • โœ… Keep trees and shrubs trimmed so they don't overhang sidewalks, streets, or neighboring properties
  • โœ… Prune bushes and hedges regularly to maintain a neat, shaped appearance
  • โœ… Remove dead branches, limbs, and overgrowth promptly
  • โœ… Trees and shrubs should not be left to grow wild or in a visibly untended state

๐ŸŒพ Weed Control

  • โœ… Keep flower beds, borders, and landscape areas free of weeds
  • โœ… Treat or remove weeds from cracks in driveways and sidewalks
  • โœ… Don't allow weeds or invasive plants to spread unchecked across the yard
  • โœ… Mulch beds regularly to help suppress weeds and maintain a tidy appearance

๐Ÿ—‘๏ธ Yard Cleanliness

  • โœ… Remove debris, dead plants, and yard waste promptly
  • โœ… Keep trash and garbage containers screened from road and neighboring property view โ€” except during scheduled pickup (Section 6.3(c))
  • โœ… Clean up after pets in any area outside your own yard (Section 6.3(d))
  • โœ… After storm damage or casualty, all debris must be removed and the lot restored within 60 days (Section 6.2(b))

Seasonal Maintenance Guide

Here's a general schedule to stay ahead of the "neat and attractive" standard year-round in Shelby's climate:

๐ŸŒธ Spring

  • Begin regular mowing as growth picks up
  • Prune shrubs before new growth flushes
  • Pull winter weeds; apply pre-emergent
  • Edge driveways and walkways
  • Refresh mulch in beds

โ˜€๏ธ Summer

  • Mow every 1โ€“2 weeks
  • Trim hedges and bushes monthly
  • Stay on top of fast-growing weeds
  • Water lawn and beds as needed
  • Remove dead annuals promptly

๐Ÿ‚ Fall

  • Continue mowing until growth stops
  • Rake and remove fallen leaves regularly
  • Trim overgrown shrubs before winter
  • Cut back perennials as they die back
  • Apply post-emergent weed control

โ„๏ธ Winter

  • Keep yard clear of debris and clutter
  • Remove dead plants and annuals
  • Prune dormant trees and shrubs
  • Ensure yard looks tidy even off-season

Violations & Enforcement

When a lot is not maintained in a neat and attractive condition, the HOA Board may issue a written notice of violation. If the violation is not corrected within 10 days of receiving written notice, fines of $25.00 per day will accrue until the issue is resolved (Section 3.6).

The Association also has the right to enter the lot and perform the necessary maintenance or corrections at the owner's expense if the violation remains unaddressed (Section 4.2).

โš ๏ธ Good neighbor tip: If you notice a neighbor's yard becoming overgrown, a friendly conversation often resolves things quickly. If you'd prefer to report a concern to the HOA Board, contact the HOA President directly.

Questions?

Contact the HOA Board with any landscaping questions or concerns: