Smith Creek Estates

What Smith Creek Estates's governing documents say

Smith Creek Estates is a single-family home subdivision in Wilmington, NC. These covenants run with the land and bind all lot owners, ensuring the neighborhood remains attractive residential property. The developer originally set these rules, and they automatically renew every 10 years unless a majority of owners votes to change them.

• Residential use only: All lots are for single-family residential use only. No house trailer, mobile home, shack, or temporary structure may be used as a residence.
• Building size & materials: Dwellings must be at least 900 square feet (exterior foundation, excluding porches, garages, etc.) and no more than 2.5 stories. Exterior materials must be wood, stone, brick, brick-veneer, tile/stucco, concrete/stucco, or asphalt shingles; garages and carports must match.
• Architectural & site approval: Plans and location of any building must be approved by the developer (or agent) before construction. If no response within 10 days, approval is not required as long as other rules are met and the building harmonizes with existing ones.
• Setbacks & lot subdivision: No fixed setback lines are established; instead, the developer controls and approves the site and location of all structures. Lots may not be resubdivided unless the part becomes part of a whole lot, with developer approval.
• Fences & signs: Fences must be wood or chain link and cannot be placed nearer the front street line than the rear corners of the house. Signs are limited to private name plates and 'For Rent' or 'For Sale' signs.
• Nuisances & prohibited activities: No noxious or offensive trade or activity is allowed. No domesticated farm animals or fowl may be kept. Unsightly inoperative junk cars and eyesores are prohibited, and unmaintained yards may be cleaned up at the owner's expense (with a lien).
• Utilities & easements: Water must come from the community water system; no wells without consent. Sewerage must connect to the community system. The developer reserves easements for utilities (electric, phone, cable, gas, sewer, water) over the rear 10 feet, front 10 feet, and 10 feet along one side of each lot, and may cut drainways and trees as needed.
• Duration & amendment: These covenants run for 20 years from July 1979, then automatically extend for successive 10-year periods unless a majority of lot owners votes to revoke or amend them.

Plain-language summary generated from the governing documents on file for this community. It may be incomplete and is not legal advice — read the full documents below or consult the official recorded versions.