Navigating HOA Approval for Your Growing Dome®
If your property is within a subdivision or a covenant-controlled development, you will likely need approval from your Homeowners Association (HOA) before installing a Growing Dome, depending on their specific regulations. HOAs often base their decisions on the allowable size of additional structures. While our smaller Growing Domes may not require approval, larger models typically will.
Steps for HOA Approval
1.) Understand Your HOA's Rules:
- The crucial first step is to determine what your HOA permits.
- Obtain a copy of the HOA's bylaws, covenants, and/or deeds, which are often posted online. If not, request them directly from the HOA management.
- Abiding by these covenants is essential for peaceful coexistence and avoiding fines.
2.) Strategic Site Planning:
- Proper site planning is vital when discussing the Growing Dome's location with your HOA.
- Always comply with your HOA's and local building department's setback policies.
- Ensure the dome will not obstruct your neighbors' views or impact their property.
3.) Gain Neighbor and Member Support:
- Talk to your immediate neighbors and other HOA members about your plans.
- Having support and camaraderie can be highly beneficial when proposing something new to the HOA.
- Many people are interested in sustainable gardening and producing fresh, local food.
- They may be able to advocate for you if an exception or rule change is needed. Use this as an opportunity to educate and inspire your community.
Highlighting the Growing Dome's Value to the HOA
When presenting the Growing Dome to your HOA and neighbors, emphasize the unique advantages and features that make it a superior choice:
Superior Performance and Durability:
- Year-Round Growing: For many climates and altitudes, traditional greenhouses are inadequate for year-round growing. They lack proper glazing and/or insulation, which can lead to plants burning in summer or freezing in winter. The Growing Dome, in contrast, effectively protects food from the elements, late freezes, snow, and hail. Traditional greenhouses only extend the season for a couple of months at best.
- Extreme Weather Resistance: The geodesic shape provides extreme sturdiness, able to withstand 75 PSF of snow and 115 MPH winds (potentially more, depending on your foundation). Traditional greenhouses cannot compare to the Growing Dome's resilience against wind, weather, and snow.
- Strong Materials: The polycarbonate material is 250 times stronger than glass.
- Longevity and Warranty: The Growing Dome has a 20+ year life expectancy and includes a 10-year pro-rated manufacturer's warranty against yellowing and hail damage.
Aesthetic and Property Benefits:
- Customization: The dome can be customized to match your home's design and color scheme by simply painting the included siding and door, or by special ordering your own materials.
- Increased Property Value: Installing a Growing Dome can potentially increase the value of your property.
Sustainability and Practicality:
- Net Zero/Off-Grid Operation: A key attractive attribute for HOAs is that the Growing Dome is a net-zero, sustainable structure. It can operate completely off-grid using passive solar gain and solar panels, without requiring external energy sources.
- Pest and Animal Control: It effectively keeps animals and pests from destroying your crops.
- Removable Structure: The Growing Dome can be removed from its site, relocated, or recycled.
- Fire Safety: The above-ground pond can potentially be used as a water source if there is a threat of wildfires in your area.
By proactively understanding your HOA's rules, engaging in thoughtful site planning, and effectively communicating the unique benefits of the Growing Dome—including its superior durability, aesthetic customization, and sustainability—you significantly increase your chances of gaining the necessary approval to start your year-round growing journey.
