FAQs | Warner Creek

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the questions we hear most often. If you don't see what you're looking for, you're always welcome to contact the board and we'll help point you in the right direction.

Jump to: Home Projects | Parking & Vehicles | Outdoor Spaces | Pets & Animals | Basics

Home Projects & Approvals

FAQ home

Projects that permanently change the outside appearance of your home are usually reviewed before work begins.

That generally includes building something new, changing materials, or altering how part of the home looks from the street.

Smaller upkeep — like routine maintenance, planting flowers, or replacing items in the same style — typically doesn’t need review.

The process isn’t meant to slow projects down. It helps make sure plans fit neighborhood guidelines and gives us a chance to align expectations before you spend time or money on a project. You can start with the Home Projects page for common examples and next steps.

We’re always happy to take a quick look and let you know whether a formal request is needed.

Everyday yard care and planting (such as flowers, small shrubs, garden beds, and routine upkeep) generally does not require approval. We want residents to feel comfortable caring for and enjoying their yards.

Larger changes that affect grading, drainage, or remove significant trees should be checked with the ABR first. These types of projects can impact neighboring properties or shared areas, so we just want to make sure everything is coordinated ahead of time.

Fences, decks, and similar additions should be reviewed and approved by the Architectural Review Board (ABR) before construction begins. These projects are permanent changes to the property, so the review looks at placement, materials, and layout to make sure they fit neighborhood guidelines.

Detached sheds and similar standalone structures aren’t permitted in Warner Creek.

The Home Projects page outlines what to submit and how the process works.

Usually not, if the new materials will look the same as what’s already there. Routine updates — like a roof, siding, or repainting in the same or very similar color, or standard window replacement — typically don’t need review.

If the material, style, or color will noticeably change the appearance of the home, the ABR should take a look first. The idea is simply to keep the overall look of the neighborhood consistent, not to complicate normal maintenance.

When in doubt, a quick check before scheduling work is always welcome.

Parking & Vehicles

Street parking is allowed for normal, short-term use, including overnight and guest parking.

Streets still need to remain accessible for emergency vehicles, deliveries, mail service, and routine maintenance. Vehicles shouldn’t be left in the same spot for extended periods or block sidewalks, driveways, or mailboxes.

During winter weather especially, moving cars into driveways helps the road commission clear the street fully and keeps travel lanes safe.

Recreational vehicles, including but not limited to trailers and boats, shouldn’t be kept on streets or driveways for more than 72 hours. Short-term parking for loading, unloading, or trip preparation is fine.

When not in use, these types of vehicles should be stored in a garage or off-site location so streets and neighboring properties remain clear and accessible.

You can find the full details in the Association’s governing documents.

FAQ parking

Outdoor & Shared Spaces

FAQ outdoor

Trash, recycling, bulk items, and seasonal yard waste are collected on Mondays (holidays may shift the schedule). Collection is arranged through the township, and there are no additional HOA fees for this service.

Starting April 1, bulk item pickup must be scheduled. You can dispose up to 2 bulk items per week and can do so by contacting Stevens Disposal directly at 800-779-0344 by 2:00 PM the day before your collection day.

Yard waste may be disposed in yard waste bags or a Stevens Disposal yard waste cart. A cart can be purchased by calling 734-822-2110 or emailing rubbish@pittsfield-mi.gov.

Pickup details and holiday schedules can be found on the township website.

After pickup, containers should be brought back in as soon as it's feasible so roadways remain clear. Guidance on container storage is also included in the Association’s policies.

Outdoor spaces are meant for normal day-to-day use, but items shouldn’t be kept outside long-term if they aren’t intended to be permanent features. Temporary projects and short-term use are understandable — the main concern is when items remain out indefinitely.

The focus here is on keeping shared areas and walkways clear and usable for neighbors, deliveries, and maintenance. Portable items like sports equipment are fine for regular use but shouldn’t block sidewalks, streets, or common areas when not in active use.

Additional guidance about outdoor storage is outlined in the Association’s policies.

Sidewalks should remain reasonably clear and walkable year-round. This includes keeping them free of obstacles, addressing trip hazards as they arise, and trimming trees or shrubs so people can pass around and underneath without stepping into the street.

Neighbors and delivery drivers rely on sidewalks to move safely in our the neighborhood, so keeping them usable makes a real difference day to day.

Snow removal is covered in the Winter Responsibilities section.

Pets & Animals

FAQ pets

Yes. Under Michigan law, dogs must be kept under control and not allowed to run at large, which means they should be on a leash when off your property, including during neighborhood walks.

The Association’s governing documents also require pets to be under control in common areas. The neighborhood park is a common area, so dogs should be leashed there.

Leashing helps neighbors, children and visitors use the area comfortably and safely.

Neighborhood Basics

FAQ basics

Dues billing is sent with the Annual Meeting notice, typically in spring and includes payment timing and instructions.

Any dues and account questions are handled by our management company, including balances and account setup. Their contact information and online portal can be found on the Who to Contact page.

Neighborhood updates are primarily shared by email and posted on the website. The Announcements page is the best place to check for current information.

We also often share reminders on the residents-only Warner Creek Facebook group, and some official notices may come from the management company through the resident portal or by mail when required.

If you’re a new resident — or think you may be missing emails — please make sure your resident portal contact information is current. You can also contact the Board so we can help confirm you’re on the email list.

If you’re comfortable doing so, we encourage neighbors to start by talking with each other. Many issues are misunderstandings and can be resolved quickly with a friendly conversation.

If the concern involves an HOA guideline, common area, or something covered by the Association’s governing documents, you can contact the Board for review.

For issues outside the HOA’s authority — such as noise complaints, parking violations, animal control, or safety concerns — please contact the appropriate local service listed on the Who to Contact page. In urgent situations, contact emergency services directly.

If you didn't find what you were looking for, free free to check the Who to Contact page and ask for help. This page is updated periodically as new questions come up.