1. Crystal Mountain Club Association Architectural Committee
Review of Building Application Procedures
Owners Weekend – Spring 2009
Chris Shirk – Presenter (representing the Architectural Committee)
This information is for reference only

2. Purpose Introduce the Committee
Review the building application process
Review “Facts & Myths” about the Restrictive Covenants
Make a motion to update the Application to Build or Remodel form

3. Architectural Committee
Members
Craig Derks
George Griffin
Tom Huber
Chris Shirk
Objectives
Serve our fellow Association members by providing consistent oversight of building and remodeling projects
Uphold the integrity of the Association’s Restrictive Covenants and Bylaws
Protect and preserve the quality and environment of our properties
Provide necessary legal approvals to allow the Land Use and Building Permit processes to move forward
Goals
Facilitative and helpful approach
Fast response time
Notification of members when necessary to point out non-conformities and propose remedies

4. When do I need to involve the Architectural Committee?
Before you start any project that will affect the exterior appearance of your lot or structures. This includes:
New construction
Exterior remodeling
Exterior maintenance (including painting/roofing)
Major landscaping/tree removal
Your main point of contact is through the Application to Build or Remodel within the Crystal Mountain Club Association form.
Available at

5. How does the process work?
We must follow the Restrictive Covenants
Also available on the web site
Read them– they are not very scary or complex!
Start with the Application
Follow with Land Use and Building Permits as necessary

6. Building Process Flow Chart
Property Owner Submits Application
Architectural Committee Approval No
Yes
Project requires Building Permit?
New construction or changed footprint?
Land Use Permit (Weldon Township Craig Meredith) No No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Building Permit (Benzie County Building Dept)
Yes

7. Example Cover Letter

8. Example Plot Plan

9. Example Picture to Show Changes
Current Exterior Appearance
Crystal Club #34
Proposed Garage Location

10. Tips to Speed the Process
Completely fill out the application!
Provide a cover letter documenting what you are doing and that it complies with the Restrictive Covenants.
Mail check with hard-copy of application and plans to one Architectural Committee member.
We recommend you also use whenever possible; all Architectural Committee members simultaneously.
PDF files of drawings, etc.

11. Truths & Myths about the Restrictive Covenants (not exhaustive)
The Architectural Committee must approve all projects affecting the exterior of a dwelling (including maintenance)
Lots may not be further sub-divided
One home and one detached garage are allowed on each lot
The home must have a minimum of 600 sq ft
Other outbuildings, such as sheds or gazebos are not permitted
Structures must be set-back:
25’ from street (front or side)
25’ from rear lot line
10’ from side lot lines
Fences are not allowed
With approval
Fire pits are not allowed
Trees cannot be removed
Driveways must be paved
A lot cannot contain both an attached and detached garage
Attached carports are not allowed
Boats or RV’s cannot be stored on a lot
Not in an unsightly manner

12. A comment on garages…
Building a small garage is a good way to provide storage on your lot
Complies with Restrictive Covenants
The Benzie County Building Department has minimal requirements for a garage:
Big enough to fit a single car (12x16)
7x7 door, minimum
Reasonable access from a driveway (improved or unimproved)
Foundation and slab in compliance with building code (mono-pour is OK)
Several members have done this recently with good results
Example: Lot 34 Garage * 14’x20’x9’h
* Carriage-style door
* Mono-pour foundation

13. Improved Building Application Form
Why the recommended change?
Simplify the form and instructions
Make the form more friendly
Make the signature process simpler
Architectural Committee can use to arrive at consensus and document this on the form electronically
Only one actual signature is required from the final reviewing member to satisfy legal requirements
Motion
The Architectural Committee moves that the Crystal Mountain Club Association adopt the revised Application to Build or Remodel within the Crystal Mountain Club Association form. This new form will be effective from this date forward and will be posted on the Club Association website.