Note: This is a draft transcription of the official ARC guidelines and may contain errors.
For the purpose hereof, rear yard recreational equipment shall include, but is not limited to any type of children’s play houses, play sets, climbing structures, slides, raised play forts, swing sets, trampolines, etc. Such structures are not totally enclosed. Enclosed structures are to follow the Outbuilding guidelines herein.
Location:
Recreational equipment shall be located in the rear yard so it is screened from public and private view to the maximum extent possible by permanent structures (such as the house, garage or wood fences) or landscaping. All rear yard recreational equipment must be a minimum of five (5) feet from the side fence lines and eight (8) feet from the rear fence line. Corner lots however must maintain a minimum of eight (8) feet from the side and rear fence line. Additional landscape screening may be required.
Size:
Play structures and swing sets must not exceed 10% of the backyard area. The maximum allowable height for playground equipment is twelve (12) feet including flags, etc. No portion of any piece of rear yard equipment shall exceed this height limit. Standing-platforms shall not exceed six (6) feet above natural ground.
Enclosed playhouses must not exceed eight (8) feet in height when measured from the natural ground and one hundred fifty (150) square feet in footprint size. Enclosed play houses must follow the guidelines for outbuildings. No more than one playhouse per lot.
Materials:
Playhouses and play structures must be constructed of materials resistant to decay. The following material is acceptable: pressure-treated yellow pine, redwood, cedar or painted treated wood, to be in harmony with the existing residence. Swing sets, trampolines, etc. may be constructed of metal. Tarp roofs, awnings, or covers must be earth tone colors. Safety netting on trampolines must be black, white or neutral in color.
Maintenance:
All playhouses, play structures, swing sets and trampolines, etc. shall be maintained in such a fashion as to not detract from the neighborhood, such as, but not limited to: for playhouses and play structures, replacement of torn or discolored tarps or covers: for swing sets, painting of any rusted or discolored parts, replacement of torn or detached safety nets on trampolines.
Misc:
Permanent skateboard ramp type structures are not allowed. Portable skateboard ramps must be stored from public view when not in use.