Guideline No. 11 – Backyard Enclosed Compost Bins

 A backyard enclosed compost bin (compost bin) is a contained, property-maintained area for decomposition of plant and other organic material.

An Exterior Alteration Application shall be required for consideration by the RHAC. 

Exterior Alteration Application Requirements

An examination of applications will be based on the following criteria: 

  • Diagrammed plot plan showing the placement location of the compost bin or tumbler behind rear sight lines of the house and at least ten feet from the property lines. 
  • Drawing showing the exact dimensions and style of the compost bin or tumbler; not to exceed four feet in height and four feet wide, and not larger than ten cubic feet.
  • Material not permitted for backyard composting to minimize odors and attracting scavengers are meat, fish, dairy, grease/oils, pet feces, diseased plants, and ash from charcoal. 
  • Description of materials to be used to construct the compost bin and the type and location of the materials to be used for the screening. See GUIDELINE No.47­—SCREENING.
Approval

Your application will most likely be approved if it meets the following criteria:

  1. The placement of the proposed compost bin/tumbler minimizes the “look and smell” of the compost bin on neighboring properties.
  2. The compost bin will be located close to the rear of the house.
  3. The compost bin is not on Open or Common Space.
  4. The property is not a townhouse (although these applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis).

NOTE: If a compost bin or tumbler is moved to a location other than that of the original application, or the compost bin or tumbler design is altered in any way, you must submit a new application. A compost bin or compost tumbler includes any structure built to house composting materials.

Failure to maintain your compost bin is a violation of the maintenance provisions of the River Hill Village Covenants.