FCCSA Deed Restriction Enforcement Process
FCCSA uses a 3-letter system for deed restriction violations. The 1st letter is a courtesy notice with a 30- day cure period. The 2nd letter is a violation notice with a 30-day cure period. The 3rd letter is sent certified mailed (also known as a 209 letter) with a 30-day cure period.
We fine $200 a month for 3 months and then the fine doubles to $400 on the 4th month. Once fines reach $1,000, the violation is sent to the attorney for legal action.
Inspectors drive each neighborhood every 30 days. Note that 4 years ago, inspectors only drove the neighborhoods every 90 days. The inspection cycle increased to every 60 days in 2019 and then again in 2021 to every 30 days.
Why does the Community Standards department send so many letters?
If FCCSA stops enforcement of any violation, the association jeopardizes the right of FCCSA to enforce future violations. Example: Trash cans left in public view, if FCCSA stops enforcing that rule, then we are liable for creating a situation where trash cans being left in public view will no longer be an enforceable violation. Our responsibility as staff of FCCSA is to enforce all deed restrictions, unfortunately, enforcement does not always equate to compliance. We encourage members to contact the FCCSA office when they have questions concerning a violation received. FCCSA staff is happy to explain the violation in further detail, explain what the member can do to correct the violation and, in some cases, offer an extension on the violation for people who need more time to cure.
What Can You Do?
Keep your home in compliance with the governing documents.
Submit Property Improvement Applications for property improvements you are making outside of your home (fences, roofs, exterior painting, generators, landscaping, window treatments, door replacements). A full list of items can be found on the website www.firstcolony.com under the popular links sections by clicking on the Property Improvements & Forms icon.
Report issues you see to the Community Standards Department. All reports are kept confidential and are verified by inspectors before any action is taken.