One of the most frequent sources of complaints and persistent problems in Columbia generally is the lack of proper maintenance on residential lots. This constitutes a violation of the River Hill Covenants as outlined below, for which the RHAC may take appropriate enforcement action.

A. General Property and Lawn Care

The following is a direct quote from Section 6.01 of the River Hill Covenants:

"Each owner shall keep all Lots owned by him, and all improvements therein or thereon, in good order and repair, including but not limited to, the seeding, watering and mowing of all lawns, the pruning and cutting of all trees and shrubbery and the painting (or other appropriate external care) of all buildings and other improvements, all in a manner and with such frequency as is consistent with good property management."

When replacement is necessary of an essential house element, such as shutters, gutters, and downspouts, an application is required only for a change from original design or color. The adjacent homeowner is responsible under Howard County law for mowing and maintenance of the outer sidewalk grass strips in a manner consistent with one's own lawn program. Sidewalk snow removal, which must be shoveled within 48 hours after the snow has fallen, is also the responsibility of adjacent residents and regulated by county code. Maintenance of the cul-de-sac islands and pruning of street trees is also the responsibility of the homeowners. Residents are encouraged to make a joint effort to beautify these areas, but significant changes will require an application.

B. Trash

The following is a direct quote from Section 8.06 of the River Hill Covenants:

"If trash or other refuse is to be disposed of by being picked up and carried away on a regular and recurring basis, containers may be placed in the open, on any day that a pickup is to be made, at such a place on the Lot so as to provide access to persons making such pickup. At all other times such containers shall be stored in such a manner so they cannot be seen from adjacent and surrounding property."

Trash may not be put out before the night prior to pickup and receptacles must be collected promptly following pickup and stored out of sight. No refuse or bulk materials may accumulate on any lot. Information on bulk trash pickup and use of the Howard County landfill may be obtained by calling (410) 313-5410. For other trash information, call (410) 313-2388.