MPR Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find a list of the most frequently asked questions to the Mountain Park Ranch HOA office. Our staff is also available to assist with any questions you have that are not listed on our website. Feel free to contact us!
Just thought you should know- When the HOA becomes aware of any new changes in laws we try to update our website and rule booklet timely. If you have any questions on location, size, height, etc., of a flagpole, please contact the Office, we’re here to help.
Mountain Park Ranch HOA (MPRHOA) recently had routine playground inspections conducted at all recreation center playgrounds by two (2) different certified playground inspectors. Inspections included; recommendations on equipment repair and replacement, safety checks, future cleanings, adding fresh sand, among other suggestions for us to consider.
Recreation Centers 1 & 2 Playgrounds – (Ranch Circle South and Ranch Circle North):
Recreation Centers 1 & 2 playgrounds, located on Ranch Circle South and Ranch Circle North, are open for your use and enjoyment. It was recommended to have the playground sand tilled (cultivated) and refreshed at both these locations as soon as the rainy season is over. Tilling the sand evens it out, fluffs and smooths it, creating a better playing area. Rain does the opposite, and hardens the sand, so we are holding off right now. We have scheduled this service and anticipate this should happen sometime in September or October 2022.
Recreation Center 3 Playground – (Thunderhill):
The playground located at recreation center 3, Thunderhill, was recommended by both inspectors to be closed for now. Some of the playground equipment is in need of replacing due to; wear and tear, parts that are now out of code/outdated, or damaged by past vandalism, among other recommended updating.
One inspector told us its like updating an old bathroom in your house. Twenty (20) years ago what was considered code, is now outdated. For example, if you were to now renovate and update your old bathroom, you would need to comply with new codes, like updating old outlets from conventional to GFI type outlets, etc., no differently then what we would have to do with some of the playground equipment. Problem is, there are no parts readily available. As a safety precaution, we followed the inspectors recommendations and closed the playground in an effort to discuss future repair and replacement options.
Please see below questions and answers (Q & A) to help assist why it was determined as our best option to remove the playground equipment now and replace it with new updated equipment.
(Q) Why was recreation center 3 (Thunderhill) playground equipment removed and not just repaired?
(A) We had two (2) playground inspectors (in an effort to get two different inspectors opinions) and three different playground companies all tell us the same thing about this playground. They indicated that many of the parts for this equipment are not available or non-existent, and if they could find any they would be very costly to replace, not to mention parts would take months or even longer if found. We would then run into the same problem in the near future with more parts that would need replacing on this equipment.
(Q) Why are parts so hard to find for this playground?
(A) The playground manufacturer who supplied this equipment over 14 years ago had a fire at their storage plant in Georgia, which burned to the ground in year 2017, leaving little to no future replacement parts. Any old parts from 2017 to this point in time have been bought up by others with the same playground equipment, who needed replacement parts. Since our equipment didn’t need replacement parts up until not long ago, there was no reason to stockpile parts that we didn’t need at the time.
(Q) Why not just find other parts and try to integrate those to the current equipment?
(A) We looked into this option, however playground companies will not take the liability to try and retrofit non-compatible parts. They also told us even if they found original replacement parts from the manufacture, it was not guaranteed those parts would even fit our equipment after 14 years of use, which could open up more liability if we allowed this to happen. Parts are non-returnable/non-refundable, if they fit or not, which could cost us thousands of dollars and months of waiting if this happened. Therefore, again, playground replacement was the best option.
(Q) Does MPRHOA have the funds to cover the expense for new equipment?
(A) Yes. The MPRHOA Reserve Study has funds already saved and available for replacement of this playground equipment. Several years ago the Reserve Study Engineer forecasted replacement around this time period for the playground equipment.
(Q) Why couldn’t we just leave the existing playground equipment fenced in for now?
(A) Due to liability and safety concerns, we were advised by the inspectors and playground company to fence the area off to avoid any potential liability, which we did. However leaving it fenced off during this time period left us with additional liability. Someone could try to break into the fenced area and use the equipment. So for safety reasons we removed the equipment to mitigate any liability.
(Q) What about the old playground equipment, are you saving the parts?
(A) Yes, the playground company is stockpiling this equipment and will use any salvageable parts for future use at our other two playgrounds located on Ranch Circle South and Ranch Circle North. Any other un-usable equipment will be recycled.
(Q) How long until new playground equipment is installed?
(A) That is being determined right now by our playground company. But a time period of 6-12 months is what we are being told to expect. We are currently reaching out to several playground manufacturers around the country to obtain designs, pricing, time frames, etc.
(Q) Will the new playground equipment be like the old equipment?
(A) Once we obtain designs, pictures, recommendations, etc., we will be sharing this information prior to agreeing on the final product. Our goal is the match-up the old equipment with the new equipment as close as possible, however with new codes and recommendations, there will be a changes that we will have to adhere with.
(Q) Why couldn’t we just wait and leave the equipment in place to see if replacement parts are available?
(A) We did look into this option, however all 3 playground companies that we contacted advised against this due to the long time period it would take to receive new parts (months) and that’s if they were even available or obtainable. Plus the fact if any other parts needed replacement in the near future on this playground equipment then we would continually have to shut it down until those part(s) were found, ordered, shipped, installed, etc.
We will keep you updated and try to answer your questions as we as we progress on this playground.
Please contact the HOA Office with any questions, thank you.
A: In most of the common areas, comprising more than 6 miles of walk & wash areas, they have, since MPRHOA’s inception in 1984, been maintained by the city from ‘wall to wall’. Some areas, noticeably better maintained, are cared for by the HOA.
A: The e-keys, or FOBs,
Recreation Center Pool and Tennis key FOBS can be obtained at the HOA Office Monday – Thursday 7 am – 3 pm and Friday 7 am – 11 am. To greatly minimize unauthorized use of our 3 Recreation Center pools by non-members keys are transferred from buyer to seller at the time the property is sold. Only one key is issued per household. Pools and tennis courts require an electronic fob for access. Lost or replacement key can be purchased at the business office for $30.00, cash or check. Please bring your driver’s license and a utility bill with your name and property address on it.
A: No, you don’t have to use Dunn Edwards paint. Stop by the office to see the updated Dunn Edwards colors. You can pick from Home Depot and other sources as long as the color matches the one approved by the Association. Remember to get your paint color approved BEFORE you paint.
A. When you know the dates your container will be left out in the street, simply call the Association Business Office and give the information and your name and address to be placed on a ‘Watch List’. Call during business hours or leave your message on the recording. It is advised to leave a visible note on the trash can indicating it is there for city pickup.
A. Yes! A building permit only meets the City Building Code; it may not meet the requirements of the Association.
A. NO. City of Phoenix Ordinance Section 23-33 and Section 31-8 , requires that backwash water be kept on the owner’s lot. It may be drained into the city sewer by use of the clean out valve located in the front yard of each home. The Rules of the Association prohibit draining water into the Common Area and inspections are made routinely for evidence that it is being done.
A. Yes, but it cannot be above the fence line. Metal or other backyard storage sheds detached from the house are allowed when they are no higher than the homes surrounding block wall and limited to 100 sq. feet in area. Such a shed needs no Architectural approval because they are below party walls.
A. No. Oral approval is never given for any change. All approvals must be in writing. Staff members will not give oral approval for any change or alteration.
A. Yes! When any change is made that can be seen from a neighboring property, Architectural approval is required. Play equipment must be located in the rear yard. Please reference the web site under Rules and Regulations and click on “Rules for Community Living” for more details.
A. Any of the above structures are required to be set back five (5) feet from any property line or perimeter party wall. Maximum height on a Gazebo and/or Ramada is ten (10) feet with a peak roof and eight (8) feet with a flat roof. A Playhouse/Play Structure can be no more than ten (10) feet high and platforms or flat standing surfaces can be no higher than four (4) feet above the natural grade of the lot. Please reference the web site under Rules and Regulations and click on “Rules for Community Living” for more details.
A. There is one heated pool, which is at Rec. Center #1, 15216 Ranch Circle South. The temperature is set for automatic heating at around 84 degrees.
The pools at 3939 Ranch Circle North and 2578 Thunderhill Place are not heated.
The Spas at all three locations are heated and set around 102-105 degrees.
A. Yes! Failure to do so, before you start the project could prove to be costly in terms of time and money.
A. The color is a Dunn Edwards color called Stonish Beige. If purchased from Frazee Paint it is called De Stonish Beige. The stock number is # 1030401C-6582.
A. The Committee will use the CC&R’s, Rules for Community Living, Architectural Review Guidelines, compatibility with surrounding area, visual impact, skill and workmanship, building materials, and harmonious with neighboring properties. Additional information is available to you on this Web Site under “Rules for Community Living”.
A. The Association has assumed the responsibility of painting the exterior walls only where the Association owns the property adjacent or bordering the Wall or Fence. The inside of walls and fences is fully the responsibility of the homeowner.
A. Below is helpful information for your planning.
- The pools, tennis courts and/or recreation centers are not for rent and only available to Mountain Park Ranch HOA Members.
- There is a guest limit of 4 persons per household for Pools and 3 persons per household for Tennis Courts.
- There is a guest limit of 30 people on the lawn area only. There are no reservations taken, although we do ask Members to register their party with the Office (480-704-5000). Space is on a first come, first served basis. If a Member comes in and is already using a spot your party had wanted to use, the first one there gets the space. We do not “hold” space for anyone. If this occurs, you can always utilize one of the other Recreation Centers.
- Our Maintenance Staff will have extra garbage bags out when there is a party.
- We try our best to have all sprinklers off for parties.
- From late September through the beginning of November each year the Recreation Centers may not be available due to over-seeding the lawns.
- If you are bringing in bouncy children’s play equipment or similar equipment, or have anyone in attendance that is receiving funds for their service, or is there to perform any type of service for your event, MPRHOA requires the person(s) and/or contractor(s) to submit to the association office proof of liability insurance including workers compensation in the minimum amount of $1,000,000.00 insurance coverage, naming MPRHOA as an additional insured. The association does not have any electrical or water hookups that can be used, so you must bring your own power.
- We will make note of your party plans with name, phone number, date, time and number of people in attendance. We provide this information each week to our Maintenance Staff for trash bags and our landscapers for sprinkler issues.
- Parties are limited to 3 hours if others are waiting.
- Grills are OK outside the pool area ONLY.
- Alcohol is prohibited in any common area of Mountain Park Ranch.
A. No. The City Streets are not a part of the Association and are outside of our control.
A. Yes! The form and approval is required on all outside work or change to your property.
A. 6:00pm the day before is the normal time for set out and the container should be taken in by 6am the day after pickup.
A. No. the Association has little or no authority over activity on a city street. If the vehicle is legally parked the Police can’t do anything either.
A. The CC&R’s, Art. IV, Sec 2. b. states animals shall not be allowed to make an unreasonable amount of noise or to become a nuisance. In the case of dogs, the Association’s position has been to treat this like any other violation; but, if that fails, it is up to the complainant to take whatever legal action is necessary to bring relief. It would be the same as a noise complaint about a loud party, music, or engine noise. The Association will assist where possible but the proof and evidence of the case is the responsibility of the complainant.
A. A complete record of all house colors is not available but some information can be searched out in old paint lists used by developers. The original paint colors were updated several years ago and new colors introduced to keep pace with changing trends. Some early colors have a very ‘dated’ look and gone out of fashion or are no longer made but can be matched by most paint stores. The business office has a list of most of the original builders colors but acknowledges that some exceptions may exist. The old colors are slowly being phased out of use with the updated list. The Association Office has all approved colors for you to look at.
A. The Association maintains color boards and paint color books with the approved colors for the body of the house and the trim for the entire Association. The selection must be made from this list of colors. Architectural Review Forms must be completed and approved by the Office prior to painting.
A. Payments are due the first day of January and July. A late fee is charged 31 days later if the Assessment has not been received in the office. Few exceptions to this policy have ever been given by the Board. A claim of not receiving a bill or notice by mail is not a sufficient reason to have the charge waived. Additional charges accrue if any type of collection effort is started.
A. You can if it’s a part of your driveway and has a paved surface. The main purpose of a double gate is for access to the rear yard. Installing a gate cannot be a maneuver to increase front yard parking. In most cases driveways are limited to a width of 27 feet or no more then 1/3 of the yard frontage. With or without the gate, parking off a paved surface in the front is not permitted.
A. Each owner of an Apartment, Single Family Home or Acre of Commercial Land has one vote. If you own multiples of any of the above types you pay an equal assessment rate and have an equal number of votes. In the case of the Apartments there are four (4) complexes in MPRHOA that total 1096 Units. The various corporations that own the complexes hold the votes and pay assessments equal to the units owned. It should be noted they do not always vote as a block.
A. The lights are on timers and take a few minutes to turn on. They turn off automatically. The hours are posted at the courts; the lights usually go off around 10 p.m.
A. Homeowner payments are semi-annual and due on January 1st and July 1st of each year. They remain at $162 each or $324 per year.
If you are experiencing a financial hardship and need assistance with your payment, please contact the controller, Emma Kroum, to make a payment arrangement.
Commercial property payments are handled differently. Please contact the office for this information.
A. The minimum City of Phoenix set back guidelines for any lot in MPR is 35 feet. This is a combination of front and back yard. This setback requirement will be taken into consideration when ARC is approving an addition to an existing structure in the future.
For an open patio structure, the set back is different. Again, every lot is different. A patio cover may extend out 10 feet from the house, unless there is an easement on a particular lot, then it may be less.
Easements may exist in certain subdivisions and on certain lots.
Perimeter lots may have different requirements than interior lots.
Homeowners are requested to supply this information to the ARC when requesting approval for an home addition or patio cover, as well as provide a City building permit (our guidelines already call for a City permit prior to approval and the ARC request form has been amended to reflect this policy). The ARC will not approve requests that do not include a permit (if one is required).
The lot % coverage is 40% maximum for structures and 45% including shade structures.
The above information was obtained and follows the requirements established from the City of Phoenix Planning and Zoning Department, and adopted at the August 8, 2006 ARC meeting.
If you have any questions on the aforementioned, please contact the Association office or submit your request on the website by clicking Contact Us.
A. Pony walls cannot be any higher than 36 inches, including the top cap and preferred to be stuccoed and painted to match house color.
A. All signs including political signs, real estate signs, etc., are not permitted on Mountain Park Ranch HOA common areas. If you are unsure of the MPR HOA boundaries or where the common areas are located, please contact the Association office at 480-704-5000.
A. We often get questions regarding what the HOA rules are in respect to the display of flags and flagpoles. MPRHOA allows what the current Federal and State laws dictate as follows:
ARS 33-1808. Flag display; A. Notwithstanding any provision in the community documents, an association shall not prohibit the outdoor front yard or backyard display of any of the following: 1. The American flag or an official or replica of a flag of the United States army, navy, air force, marine corps or coast guard by an association member on that member’s property if the American flag or military flag is displayed in a manner consistent with the federal flag code (P.L. 94-344; 90 Stat. 810; 4 United States Code sections 4 through 10). 2. The POW/MIA flag. 3. The Arizona state flag. 4. An Arizona Indian Nations flag. 5. The Gadsden flag. B. The association shall adopt reasonable rules and regulations regarding the placement and manner of display of the American flag, the military flag, the POW/MIA flag, the Arizona state flag or an Arizona Indian Nations flag.
The association rules may regulate the location and size of flagpoles, may limit the member to displaying no more than two flags at once and may limit the height of the flagpole to no more than the height of the rooftop of the member’s home but shall not prohibit the installation of a flagpole in the front yard or backyard of the member’s property.