The ECC was created when the San Diego Country Estates was founded and is described in the CC&Rs. Basically it consists of 3 unpaid volunteers that serve for a period of 3 years each. They meet twice a month (currently on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month) to review new projects proposed by homeowners and to check the status of projects already in progress.

The main function of the ECC is to assist homeowners in making changes in the appearance of the outside of their home and/or lot. They make sure that the changes are in accordance with the CC&Rs and also that they do not violate any County ordinances.

The other function of the ECC is to help keep the San Diego Country Estates maintain its quality look and to maintain the value of the owners property.

When you purchased your San Diego Country Estates property you were given a copy of the CC&Rs, the governing documents of the estates. You were also given a copy of the “Environmental Control Committee & Community Relations Department Rules & Procedures”, a red booklet that describes in more detail requirements and your responsibilities in obtaining approval for improvements and maintenance of your property.

This is a reminder to homeowners that approval is required prior to any changes/additions being made to the appearance of your property (both front and back yards) or to your home. In many situations prior approval will avoid removal, addition or modification of the work in progress and may save expense and work effort.
In most instances it is very simple to obtain permission. You must furnish the ECC with a written request that describes the changes. The easiest way to do this is to fill out the ECC Project Form which is available on the ECC section of the SDCEA website, at the ECC office or at the CRD office.

The following is a partial list of the most frequent types of project plans submitted.

Re-landscaping (additions/changes to existing landscaping)
RV/Camper/Horse Trailer/Boat Storage/Utility Trailer/Concealment
Fences/Gazebos
House Painting (changing color of house or trim)
Patios/Decks/Pools/Spas/Hot Tubs (pools require County permits)
Corrals/Stalls/Barns/Tack Sheds
Additions/Modifications to Existing Homes (require County permits)
Wells (require County permits)
Outbuildings, Storage Sheds or Work Shops
Roof Replacement
Solar Heating/Electric

Information flyers on many of these items are available on the ECC section of the SDCEA website or at the CRD office. The website is: www.sdcea.net.
If you still have questions please call the ECC office: 789-3788 X 5000.