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1. Can I install Automated Under Eave Lighting?

“Automated Under Eave Lighting – Please note that automated under eave lighting, such as JellyFish® or Gemstone®, is not approved for installation within the community’s boundaries.  Owners who install these kinds of lighting products risk the imposition of fines, removal of the systems at their cost, and any related costs associated with compelling removal through court proceedings.  We have notified both Jellyfish and Gemstone that their products are not permitted to be installed within our community, however, the end responsibility for any modifications to a home is that of the property owner.  If you have any questions or concerns about an exterior modification to your home contact the CAB staff at 720-661-9694 or via email at residentsubmit@sterlingranchcab.com PRIOR to making any changes.”

2. How do I get approval for my exterior home improvement project?

All exterior improvements require approval from the Design Review Committee. Please see the Process for Design Review page for specific details.

Learn more about Design Review

3. Are there any guidelines I need to follow to have a temporary dumpster or a storage pod at my house?

Please submit an Application for General Architectural Improvements to the Design Review Committee for approval. Include with the application timeframe for dumpster or storage pod to be at property. Please note, dumpsters and storage pods must be placed in your driveway and are not allowed on a public right-of-way per Douglas County officials.

4. What is the guideline for having a recreational vehicle at my home?

The maximum amount of time a Recreational Vehicle is allowed to be parked is three overnights (e.g., 72 hours) during any 7-day period for loading, delivery, and maintenance. Periodic movement of the vehicle for the purpose of circumventing this standard shall not qualify the vehicle for an exception from this standard. Please refer to the Residential Property Owner Guidebook, Article VI General Standards for further regulation details.

5. Do I need to submit my paint colors even if I am painting my home the exact same colors?

DRC approval is required, even if re-painting is being done with the same colors as the original or previous paint color. Please refer to the Residential Property Owner Guidebook, Article VI General Standards for further regulation details.

6. Do trampolines and play equipment require approval?

DRC approval is required. Trampolines will be considered based on size, height, color, relationship to size of lot, relationship to landscaping, setbacks from property lines, method of installation, and proposed safety netting. Trampolines are required to be anchored per manufacturer specifications.

7. Is it okay for me to access the open space to do improvements on my property?

No, all access to your property must be from the street side at the front of your home. Accessing the property through another lot, open space, parks, or landscaped tracts is prohibited. Please refer to the Residential Property Owner Guidebook, Section IV. Landscaping Standards.

8. What can I do about a barking dog or a neighbor that does not clean up after their animals on a regular basis?

If you are trying to solve a problem with a barking dog or clean up after a pet, please start with communicating your concern to the pet owner or contact the following county authorities:

• Douglas County Animal Services, 303-660-7529, 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
• Sheriff’s Department Dispatch, 303-660-7500 (After 6 p.m. if an animal problem requires immediate attention).

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1. How do I get the Sterling Ranch Rules and Regulations documents?

The best way to make sure you are using the most up-to-date version of Sterling Ranch rules and regulations is to download any needed documents at the link below. 

Design Review Documents

2. Why do we need processes and guidelines to maintain architectural and community standards?

We need a basis for treating all homeowners fairly and reasonably. Written guidelines allow homeowners and the Design Review Committee to work from the same criteria. Sometimes architectural requirements can be complex. The guidelines show exactly what is required and help design improvements that comply with the Community’s standards.

3. What is required for the rear yard at initial installation?

In the rear-yard one deciduous tree (minimum 1-1/2” caliper, measured 6 inches above ground); one evergreen tree (minimum 6’ to 8’ in height); a minimum 30% live plant coverage, and an automatic irrigation system operational are required elements.

4. Where can I find an application?

The applications for design review can be found by visiting the link below. 

Design Review Applications

5. Can I submit a Design Review Application before I have closed on my property?

Applications under contract on a property in Sterling Ranch may submit an application for Design Review, but comments and approval will not be given until the property has closed.

6. How do I pay the Design Review application fee?

Application fees are paid via check made payable to Sterling Ranch CAB. Credit card and other forms of payment are not accepted at this time. Checks can be mailed or dropped off to Sterling Ranch CAB, 8220 Piney River Ave, Littleton, CO 80125.

7. After I receive my approval, can I modify or deviate from my application slightly?

Approval was granted based on the information the homeowner provided to the committee on the application. A new Design Review Application will need to be submitted should a homeowner need to make any changes to the original application.  (EXCEPT for plant material selection as long as it is for water to water same)

8. How long does the Design Review Process take?

The Design Review Committee has up to 30 days to review a submittal from the date a completed submittal package was received at the Design Review Committee meeting. If you have not been notified in writing by the 31st day after the meeting, the submittal is deemed to be denied. It is the responsibility of the applicant to contact the Design Review Committee to determine the status of the submittal.

9. How many days do I have to install my rear yard?

The rear yard landscape must be completed within 120 days following your closing. A Winter Deferral Period for completion of rear yard planting is granted for closings from November 1 to April 30.

10. Am I allowed to make changes to my grading or drainage?

The DRC does not evaluate changes to grading or drainage.  Applicants are to seek approval from the County and/or other appropriate governing bodies.  The DRC is not responsible in any way for changes made to grading and/or drainage while installing landscaping or other improvements. All County and State code requirements are to be followed and are the sole responsibility of the homeowner.

11. Do I need Design Review Committee approval for my fence installation?

No, fences are installed on property lines and must meet the Sterling Ranch fence design specifications. A friendly reminder to always call 811 for a utilities/wire locate before ever digging for anything in your yard.

12. Am I limited to the plants on the Pre-Approved Recommend Plant List?

Sterling Ranch collaborated with Denver Botanic Gardens to research plantings that flourish in Colorado’s semi-arid climate. The concerted research effort trialed planting for water sustainability and resiliency and took form as a test garden planted on the property that was maintained and observed for three years. The recommend plant list is a great start to understanding the Sterling Ranch planting palette, but the Design Review Committee will review additional plant material requests.

13. Am I limited to the landscape contractors on the Pre-Approved Landscaper List?

No, you may work with a landscaper of your choice, but that professional landscaper will need to meet with our Architectural and Community Standards Director to become certified and approved. The approval process includes education on Sterling Ranch Water Demand Management Initiatives and the Design Review process. Please note, inclusion on this list does not constitute the CAB’s endorsement of any of these companies. This list is only intended to identify the individuals that have attended the CAB’s required informational sessions regarding the Sterling Ranch Water Demand Management Initiatives. The CAB does not independently investigate the professional qualifications or reputations of the companies on this list. It is recommended that you perform a due diligence investigation as you would with any other company you are hiring to provide services for your home.

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1. How do I submit an application for Design Review?

Please submit your completed application digitally via residentsubmit@sterlingranchcab.com 

• Design Review Committee (DRC) meetings are scheduled for the first and third Thursday during the months of March through September, and the first Thursday during October through February.
•  Applications and forms can be downloaded on the DRC Applications web page. 
• Completed applications must be received via residentsubmit@sterlingranchcab.com by end of business day on the Friday prior to a DRC meeting to be reviewed at that meeting. If it is not received by end of business on the Friday before the meeting, it will be put on the following meeting’s agenda. 

If a fee is required, mail the physical check made out to Sterling Ranch Community Authority along with a copy of your application to Sterling Ranch DRC, 8155 Piney River Avenue, Suite 150, Littleton, CO 80125.

2. How do I pay my bill?

Water & Sewer Bill:

Residents of Sterling Ranch receive a monthly water & sewer bill in the mail each month. To view and pay your monthly water & sewer bill follow the following instructions: You have on-line access to all your water and CAB Services billing information. Login to your Sterling Ranch Utility account at https://ebill.sterlingranchco.com/ubs1/ to:

• Pay your bill or setup an automatic payment
• Review your 12-month usage summary
• Understand your gallon consumption by month and year

If you are having trouble locating your account number or need a copy of your bill please email info@sterlingranchcab.com

Quarterly Assessment Bill:

The quarterly CAB Service Fees are billed on a quarterly basis and are administered by Capital Consultants Management Corporation (CCMC). Quarterly CAB Service Fees include stormwater, trash and recycling, streetlights, and driveway maintenance (Lennar Elements homes only). Payment options are listed below. 

Direct-Debit

The direct-debit payment option is available at no charge. If you are set up for direct-debit and your assessment has changed, the new amount will automatically be deducted.

Download and complete the direct debit authorization form.

Electronic Checks & Credit Card Payments

To pay by Credit Card or Electronic, visit the Smartstreet Website. There is a $14.95 processing fee per credit card transaction. There is no charge for electronic check transactions. American Express, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa are accepted. Recurring credit card payments with Smartstreet are valid for one year or when your credit card expires, whichever is sooner. At that time, you must renew your payment with Smartstreet, it does not happen automatically. If you have recurring payments with Smartstreet and your assessment amount changes, you must update your payment information with Smartstreet as it doesn’t happen automatically.

Bill-Payment Services

If you use a bill-payment service please review your account number and payment mailing address. Many bill-payment services remit electronically and the correct account number is essential for proper posting to your account. Your account number is twelve digits with no dashes or spaces. If your assessment amount changes, you must update your bill payment processor.

3. How do I sign up for E-News?

The CAB publishes a monthly newsletter and weekly updates with a plethora of information to help you stay connected with what’s happening in Sterling Ranch. If you would like to receive the newsletters, complete the Email Distribution Sign Up E-Form.

4. How do I report a concern?

Please contact the Community Authority Board (CAB) with any general questions or concerns you may have. Please be as descriptive and include as much information as possible. Complete one of the forms below and a CAB representative will follow up with you within 48 hours of submission. 

E-Forms:

• General Inquiries
• Maintenance Request Form
• Trash & Recycling Inquiries
• Report a Water Concern

5. How do I register for an event or program?

Signing up for events, programs, and fitness offerings for your household should be easy! With the new CAB website, you’ll be able to view all upcoming events and offerings, sign up individuals in your household, and keep track of your RSVPs.

After registering your household for access cards to use the Overlook Clubhouse, you will receive an email prompting you to finish your account setup. The email will read “Sterling Ranch Community Authority Board…Password Automatically Generated”. If you haven’t signed up to get access to the Overlook Clubhouse, complete the Resident Amenity Form online today!

**For homeowners who registered for the Overlook Clubhouse prior to its opening in October 2020 should have received the email to complete account setup already. If you have not received the email or your link is expired, please contact the Overlook Clubhouse at 720-728-7257 or email recreation@sterlingranchcab.com and a staff member will assist you.**

This account and password are for the new CIVICREC system and will be used for registering for events, reserving time to use the fitness center, purchasing fitness classes, additional guest passes, and more! Follow the instructions listed below to complete your account setup.

How to Finish Your Online Account Setup

1. Open the email. You will have a username (your email provided) and a temporary password to log in.
2. Select TO LOGIN AND CHANGE YOUR PASSWORD NOW CLICK HERE. You will be redirected to the new CIVICREC Website.
3. Once logged in, select ACCOUNT in the top lefthand corner.
4. Select the pencil icon next to your name.
5. In the lower-left corner, select RESET CIVICREC PASSWORD.
6. You will be prompted to confirm that you would like to reset the password.
7. A password reset link will be sent to your email. Follow the instructions to reset your password.

Registering for Events & Programs

• Navigate to the Community Calendar.
• Click on the event that interests you.
• Click "More Details" to view the full event description, event cost, suggested ages, and registration links. 
• Review the event details and confirm if an RSVP or program registration is required. 
• If required, a link to register on the right-hand column will say "Register Now"
• Follow the registration prompts.
• After completing your registration, you will receive a confirmation. If you DO NOT receive a confirmation, please contact the Resident Services team ASAP.

Need additional assistance?

The Overlook staff is available to assist homeowners with their online accounts 7 days a week during regular business hours. If you need assistance accessing your account for the first time or if you did not receive the email to complete your account setup, please call the Overlook Clubhouse at 720-728-7257 or email recreation@sterlingranchcab.com.

6. How do I trouble shoot your water meter when you have no water?

Valves - Gen 1

These valves require the smart home system to be online and functioning to open and close the valves. To troubleshoot we recommend the following:

1. Make sure the smart home system is online; if not, use https://lumiere.technology/knowledge-base/category/STEWARD/
2. Submit a ticket with our team at https://lumiere.technology/open-a-ticket/

Water Valves - Gen 2 

These valves can easily be opened and closed manually. To troubleshoot, we recommend the following:

1. Click the blue power button on the Dome Valve 1 time. 1 click will cause the arm to turn and open the water supply (see Gen 2 Valves #2 for that power button)
2. If this button does not cause the arm to turn, pull the silver pin on the device and manually move the arm (see Gen 2 Valves #3 for that pin)
3. For additional help submit a ticket at https://lumiere.technology/open-a-ticket/

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1. Are reservations required?

No. On April 16, 2021, Douglas County opted out of the Tri-County Health public order, thus allowing all businesses to operate at 100% capacity. A maximum of 169 people will be permitted at the pool at one time, according to the building fire code.

2. What are the hours of operation?

Monday-Friday:

• 5:00-7:00am Lap Swim
• 7:00-9:00am: Pool CLOSED for cleaning, maintenance.
• 9:00am-8:45pm: Open Swim (Lifeguards on duty 11:00 am-8:00 pm)
• School back in session: Lifeguard hours 4:00 - 7:00 pm

Saturday:

• 9:00am-7:45pm (Lifeguards on duty 11:00 am-7:45 pm)
• School back in session: Lifeguard hours 11:00 - 7:00 pm

Sunday:

• 9:00am-7:45pm (Lifeguards on duty 11:00 am-7:45 pm)
• School back in session: Lifeguard hours 11:00 - 7:00 pm

3. Will swim lessons be offered?

Yes! The clubhouse lifeguard vendor will offer four sessions of group swim lessons throughout the Summer. Each session will run Monday-Thursday, with Friday as a make-up day in case of inclement weather. Swim lesson sign-ups will available two weeks before each session begins, on a first-come-first-served basis. Visit www.sterlingranchcab.com for more information!

4. Can I bring a guest to the pool?

Yes! Each household receives 25 guest passes each calendar year linked to your CIVICREC account. 

Each CAB Resident household is permitted up to six (6) guests per day. If the Clubhouse and Pool is not at capacity, additional guests beyond six (6) will be permitted for a fee of $5.00 per guest.  CAB Residents are encouraged to call and verify capacity before arrival.      Guests MUST be accompanied by the CAB Resident providing the guest passes at all times during their use of Clubhouse and Pool facilities. If guests are not accompanied by the resident, they will be asked to leave. When you arrive with your guests, please indicate the number of guest and we will deduct the passes from your account.

5. Can a caregiver take my kids to the pool?

You can purchase a caregiver pass for $300.00 for the calendar year, listing up to four names to use the caregiver pass. ID will be required to use the pass and the individual must be with those they are giving care for. Only one person can use the caregiver pass at a time.

6. Can I reserve the pool for a party?

Unfortunately, the pool is not available for rental. There are other great spaces at the Overlook to reserve for private parties!

7. What is the capacity of the pool?

169 individuals are permitted at one time.

8. Will lap swim be available?

Yes, each morning, Monday through Friday from 5:00am-7:00am is reserved for lap swim. We will also have at least one lap lane available during open swim times.

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1. What does the monthly fixed fee include?

The water rate billing structure includes a fixed monthly water service base fee and a residential usage charge. This base fee covers the cost of the water and sewer utility’s fixed and operating costs before any service is provided. The residential usage charge is based on tiered rates and are variable based upon use. Rates and Fees are established annually by the Community Authority Board (CAB) Board. 

The CAB rates are generally higher than many of the neighboring utilities and does not include a mill levy component that many neighboring utilities use to fund capital projects. However, many of these neighboring providers are older, established enterprises who rely on nonrenewable water supplies. The CAB rates are based on developing a renewable water system from inception. It is likely water rates for neighboring utilities will continue to rise at a faster rate than those of the CAB due to the costs of obtaining and developing renewable water supplies.

2. How are my indoor water usage tiers established?

A homeowner’s individualized indoor water budget is structured on an average winter consumption (AWC) to determine the tier 1 threshold. The AWC is determined by averaging the customer’s actual indoor water use for the months of December, January, and February. The AWC is reset annually to allow for life changes. The tier 1 minimum threshold for residential homes is a minimum of 4,000 gallons per month and a maximum of 6,000 gallons per month. Accounts without an AWC history will be assigned 6,000 gallons per month as an initial AWC.

3. How do I troubleshoot your water meter when you have no water?

Valves - Gen 1

These valves require the smart home system to be online and functioning to open and close the valves. To troubleshoot we recommend the following:

1. Make sure the smart home system is online; if not, use https://lumiere.technology/knowledge-base/category/STEWARD/
2. Submit a ticket with our team at https://lumiere.technology/open-a-ticket/

Water Valves - Gen 2 

These valves can easily be opened and closed manually. To troubleshoot, we recommend the following:

1. Click the blue power button on the Dome Valve 1 time. 1 click will cause the arm to turn and open the water supply (see Gen 2 Valves #2 for that power button)
2. If this button does not cause the arm to turn, pull the silver pin on the device and manually move the arm (see Gen 2 Valves #3 for that pin)
3. For additional help submit a ticket at https://lumiere.technology/open-a-ticket/

4. Why are outdoor water rates slightly higher than indoor water rates?

The water rates are structured to recover system costs. Outdoor water rates were designed to encourage water-wise irrigation practices. Outdoor water use increases the demand on our water system, and therefore the operational costs of our facilities. Additionally, when water is used outdoors it is fully consumed and not returned to the system.

5. How do I move into higher tiers each month?

The first tier of fee rates per 1,000 gallons applies to the use of up to 100% of the customer’s water budget. The tier fee rate per 1,000 gallons for use over 100% of the water budget increases based upon the amount over 100% that is used by that customer. Water used during the establishment period (45 days following the installation of turf and plant material) will be billed at the first tier fee rate, and will not count against the water budget.

6. How can I monitor my water usage each month?

UtilityHawk:

Simply log into UtilityHawk by pointing your browser to: https://srcab.utilityhawk.us .  Once on the site, select the Registration button and follow the instructions to register.

UtilityHawk offers several benefits to Sterling Ranch CAB customers including:

• Set monthly threshold values in dollars for water and irrigation usage.
• Set Daily/Weekly/Monthly usage thresholds and get notified if you are trending to exceed.
• Provides timely alerts when problems are detected.
• You can specify how you want to be contacted ‐ text, e‐mail, or phone.
• Easy‐to‐understand and use, you can access the HELP menu for specific instructions.
• Electric and Gas consumption will be loaded soon, for the immediate future please continue to use the Steward App.
• Provides a “single sign on” to the payment portal with the touch of a button so you do not need to re‐enter credentials.

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1. Are these equipment upgrades required?

Yes. New technology has recently come available that will significantly improve the consistency of transmission of water meter data to the water billing system. For the community to properly adopt this technology, all homes need to be using the same system. With thousands more homes coming in the next few decades, it is important for the community to adopt this new technology now instead of waiting for even more homes to come online with the current technology.

2. Who will be performing the work?

A Siemens technician will be performing the work in your home. Siemens is a critical technology partner for Sterling Ranch and their technicians are some of the best in the business.

3. How long will the equipment upgrades take?

Once the Siemens technician arrives at your home, the equipment upgrades should take approximately 2 hours.

4. Will I be able to use internet while the upgrade is taking place?

The technician will need to shut off a circuit breaker to perform the necessary electrical work. If your internet is utilizing that same circuit breaker, you will not be able to access the internet for approximately 45 minutes while electrical work is being performed. Because of this, we strongly recommend not scheduling critical tasks that will require internet access or VoIP phone use during your service window.

5. What can I do to prepare?

In order to minimize the time required, prior to the technician’s arrival please clear adequate space (at least 3 square feet) around your water meter panel, electrical breaker box, and STEWARD equipment. This equipment is typically located in the basement. If you do not have a basement, the equipment is typically located in the garage.

6. What information should I be ready to share?

Please be prepared to provide your STEWARD login credentials and your Wi-Fi network name and password to the technician. If you have changed the default login to your CenturyLink ONT/modem’s admin portal, please be prepared to provide that information as well. If you would prefer not to share this information, please be prepared to input your credentials for the technician at the necessary times.

If you do not know your STEWARD login credentials, visit the Lumiere website.

7. Why are you removing the virtual private network (VPN) hardware?

The virtual private network (VPN) hardware was previously necessary to ensure proper encryption of water meter information during transmission to the water billing system. This is no longer the case as we are now able to use an alternate encryption method. We plan to remove the VPN hardware by default as removing it simplifies the network configuration within the home. However, if you feel strongly about keeping your VPN hardware, we will allow you to keep it.