CC&Rs and Covenant Review Committee (CRC)
Homeowner Reminder
The Somerset neighborhood includes over 1,500 properties, and 98% of those properties are subject to active Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) that run with the land.
67% of Somerset homes are supported by the Covenants Review Committee (CRC), which is charged with reviewing and approving property modifications as required under applicable CC&Rs. The CRC helps homeowners navigate covenant requirements and maintain the character, value, and views of the Somerset community.
If you are planning to modify your home or property, it is important to understand whether your property is subject to CC&Rs and whether CRC approval is required before work begins.
67% of Somerset homes are supported by the Covenants Review Committee (CRC), which is charged with reviewing and approving property modifications as required under applicable CC&Rs. The CRC helps homeowners navigate covenant requirements and maintain the character, value, and views of the Somerset community.
If you are planning to modify your home or property, it is important to understand whether your property is subject to CC&Rs and whether CRC approval is required before work begins.
What Are CC&Rs (Covenants)?
CC&Rs are recorded legal agreements tied to individual properties. They may regulate items such as:
- Home additions and exterior alterations
- Setbacks, building height, and lot coverage
- Fences, walls, and rockeries
- Trees and landscaping
- View impacts
- Parking, storage, and use restrictions
What Is the Covenants Review Committee (CRC)?
The Covenants Review Committee (CRC) is responsible for reviewing proposed improvements and modifications for properties covered by CC&Rs that require approval.
The CRC:
For many Somerset divisions, CRC approval is required in addition to any city permits.
The CRC:
- Reviews applications for covenant compliance
- Evaluates design, placement, and potential view impacts
- Provides written approvals or feedback
- Assists homeowners in understanding covenant requirements
For many Somerset divisions, CRC approval is required in addition to any city permits.
Planning a Home or Property Modification?
If you are considering any exterior change, including but not limited to:
- Home additions or remodels
- Roof, siding, or exterior changes
- Fences, walls, gates, or rockeries
- Pools, patios, or decks
Procedures, Forms, and Contact Information
CRC Procedures and Application Forms: Click Here
Submit applications or questions by email: [email protected]
The CRC encourages homeowners to reach out early in the planning process to avoid delays or compliance issues.
Submit applications or questions by email: [email protected]
The CRC encourages homeowners to reach out early in the planning process to avoid delays or compliance issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my property has CC&Rs?
Most Somerset properties do. You can check your title documents, recorded plats, or contact the CRC for assistance in determining which covenants apply to your property.
Do I still need CRC approval if I have a City of Bellevue permit?
Yes. City permits and CRC approvals are separate requirements. CRC approval may be required even if a city permit has been issued or is not required.
What types of projects require CRC approval?
Generally, any exterior construction, alteration, or site change may require approval. When in doubt, contact the CRC before starting work.
Is Somerset a view community?
Yes. Somerset is a view community, and CC&Rs authorize consideration of impacts to existing views when reviewing proposed projects.
What happens if work begins without CRC approval?
Starting work without required CRC approval may result in enforcement action under the CC&Rs and could require modification or removal of unapproved work.
Can the CRC help before I submit a full application?
Yes. The CRC is available to answer questions and provide guidance before formal submission. The CRC hosts monthly meetings open to the public via Zoom.
Most Somerset properties do. You can check your title documents, recorded plats, or contact the CRC for assistance in determining which covenants apply to your property.
Do I still need CRC approval if I have a City of Bellevue permit?
Yes. City permits and CRC approvals are separate requirements. CRC approval may be required even if a city permit has been issued or is not required.
What types of projects require CRC approval?
Generally, any exterior construction, alteration, or site change may require approval. When in doubt, contact the CRC before starting work.
Is Somerset a view community?
Yes. Somerset is a view community, and CC&Rs authorize consideration of impacts to existing views when reviewing proposed projects.
What happens if work begins without CRC approval?
Starting work without required CRC approval may result in enforcement action under the CC&Rs and could require modification or removal of unapproved work.
Can the CRC help before I submit a full application?
Yes. The CRC is available to answer questions and provide guidance before formal submission. The CRC hosts monthly meetings open to the public via Zoom.
Thank You
Thank you for helping maintain the quality, character, and value of our Somerset neighborhood.