The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) is a group of elected members who are responsible for dealing with issues of the Wilderness Rim Covenants. The covenants were set up in 1967 when the Rim was organized by the American Pacific Corporation. These rules are designed to protect homeowners and ensure the most beneficial development, as well as prevent activities that might diminish the value or enjoyment of our beautiful residential area.
One of the most misunderstood covenants is Covenant #4 which covers the keeping of animals. It states that no livestock, poultry or animals can be raised, bred, or kept on any lot. This does not include “house pets” like dogs and cats, but breeding or sales of these animals commercially is prohibited.
The reasons for the no livestock covenant are as follows:
- Health issues: Poultry especially carry Salmonella bacteria on their bodies and in feces. They can also carry viruses and fungi that can be infectious to humans. All livestock can harbor parasites and attract flies and other noxious insects.
- Rodent attraction: Food bits and feces attract rats, mice, and other small animals.
- Predator attraction: Chickens and other small animals attract large predators like bears, coyotes, and cougars, all which live in our area. These predators are a danger to animals as well as to humans. More about Washington State law and predator attraction can be found here: http://wildernessrim.org/bear-sightings-and-washington-law/
- Noise and smell: Live animals can negatively impact the enjoyment on our neighborhood.
All the Covenants are posted on our website (www.wildernessrim.org/legal). Questions can be sent to ARC at ARC@wildernessrim.org or give the office a call. Please check future newsletters and the website for explanations of WRA’s other covenants.