How do I request approval for home modifications?
Submit an architectural review board project proposal form.
Do exterior home improvements need approval from the Architectural Review Board (ARB)?
Most alterations and improvements to lot exteriors require ARB approval, including: excavations (drainage tiles, ditches, leveling or adding fill that could change drainage), structural improvements (room additions, porch/patio additions, decks), alterations to home exterior (changes in siding, garage doors, sheds) and exterior lot changes (fences and sheds, awnings/canopies, retaining walls, landscaping adjacent to common areas or that may change views of neighbors).
Visit the Architectural Review Board page to learn more.
Do interior home improvements need approval from the Architectural Review Board (ARB)?
Interior improvements that do not affect the exterior of the home do not need approval from the ARB.
Do homeowners have access to the apartment complex pool, tennis court, and other facilities?
The apartments adjacent to our neighborhood offer amenities such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis court, dog park, and fitness center. These amenities are available to the homeowners of Blackbird Farms for a fee. Visit the Amenities page to learn more.
When is trash collected, and what are the requirements concerning trash bins?
Blackbird Farms is first on West Lafayette’s Thursday trash pickup routes, arriving shortly after 7:00am. If your trash and recycling is contained in rigid cans or totes, you may place them out on Wednesdays evening; if your items are in bags and easily accessed by wildlife, please place them out on Thursday before 7:00am. The city has cameras on their trucks and will charge for a special trip to pick up late trash!
The City asks that homeowners place all toters at least three feet from any other object, so that the truck can pick them up without tipping over other cans, hitting mailboxes or vehicles.
Finally, please note that the neighborhood Covenants (Article V, Sect. 21) require that trash cans (and recycle/lawn waste bins) must be stored out of view of other homes and the street, except when placed at the street for collection. Please do not leave your trash/recycling containers in front of your garage or around the side or back of the house.
Can I list my home on Airbnb, Vrbo, or similar sites?
No. The operation of an Airbnb/Vrbo violates neighborhood COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS, Article V, Section 20: No Owner may rent or lease his Dwelling Unit for transient or hotel purposes. All identified Airbnb/Vrbo operations have been and will continue to be ordered to stop operation immediately, cancel all future bookings, and immediately remove postings from all online sites. Failure to do so will result in escalation to legal remedies.
Are there lawn / property upkeep requirements?
Yes.
The beauty of the neighborhood is dependent upon each homeowner caring for the external appearance of their property. Residents are expected to comply with the City of West Lafayette standards regarding lawn height and areas of uncontrolled overgrowth (max height of 10”). If you are unable to care for your own yard, please contact the Board for help understanding the requirements or where you can find assistance. Mowed yards, trimmed trees and bushes, and trash cans out of sight are the minimum expectations, and all contribute to a well-maintained appearance of all of our homes in Blackbird Farms. Thank you for doing your part to keep our neighborhood beautiful!
Please also ensure the West Lafayette tree trimming requirements are being followed, particularly the requirements concerning street and sidewalk clearance: “All large, established trees shall have their lower branches pruned as necessary to allow the flow of vehicles and pedestrians under the tree; fifteen (15) foot street clearance and eight (8) foot sidewalk clearance is required.” See the West Lafayette Landscape Ordinance Tree Manual for the complete requirements.