Architectural Guidelines for Exterior Changes
In accordance with neighborhood property covenants and RFCA Architectural Guidelines, all residents must request and receive approval from the RFCA for any changes to the exterior of the property before work begins. Approval by the RFCA does not negate the need for a county permit, and a county permit does not negate the need for RFCA approval (both are needed). The RFCA Architectural Guidelines are available for download here.
Click here to submit an application.
Questions? Email architecture@rodgersforge.org.
Introduction
When the James Keelty Company, Inc. planned and developed Rodgers Forge, the Company inserted covenants and restrictions in all property deeds to establish and maintain the quality and character of the community. The covenants were recorded and as property is purchased and resold, each new owner accepts the covenants as a stipulation of the transfer of property ownership.
The covenant sets standards for the development of property and any exterior change or alteration. It has protected the aesthetic environment of our neighborhood and is key to the maintenance and improvement of our property values. The protection provided through the covenant is an important element in attracting residents to Rodgers Forge and assuring that it is an outstanding place to live.
Further affirmation of the unique architectural character and value of the exterior features of the Rodgers Forge community homes was confirmed with its designation as a National Register Historic District.
“NO RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURE SHALL BE ERECTED, PLACED OR ALTERED ON ANY BUILDING PLOT IN THIS SUBDIVISION UNTIL THE EXTERNAL DESIGN AND LOCATION THEREOF HAS BEEN APPROVED IN WRITING BY THE JAMES KEELTY REALTY CORPORATION, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS”
The foregoing statement or similar statement appeared in all original property deeds for Rodgers Forge homes. The community association became the successors to the Keelty Corporation when the James Keelty Company, Inc. assigned and transferred all powers and rights to enforce any and all restrictions imposed on the entire development known as Rodgers Forge to the Rodgers Forge Community, Inc. (also commonly called the Rodgers Forge Community Association (“RFCA”)) by deed and agreement on January 18, 1960. This deed and agreement is recorded in Baltimore County Land Records Liber 3666, Page 357. Each year, the Board of Governors of the Rodgers Forge Community, Inc. appoints an Architectural Committee, which is authorized to approve or disapprove any and all alterations to the exterior of homes in Rodgers Forge. The committee follows established procedures for accepting and reviewing requests for alterations to the homes.
The following guidelines form the basis for decisions made by the Architectural Committee. Please note that the guidelines are subject to change. The standards should serve as only a guide for your reference. RFCA does not waive, release, or disclaim its right to enforce or defend the Rodgers Forge property covenants. The homeowner is responsible to obtain the approval of the Architectural Committee before any exterior modification commences. Any expenses associated with modifying or removing unapproved or nonconforming exterior modifications will be the sole responsibility of the homeowner.
Download a copy of the RFCA Architectural Guidelines.