I own two lots side by side — can I build across the line?

The covenants address this specifically.

A person owning **more than one lot** may build on such lot line, and the easement becomes **inoperative as to that line** — provided the building is placed there **before** the easement is put to use for one of its purposes.

So the timing matters. If utilities are already installed along that line, the easement is in use and the provision does not help you.

**This does not remove the other requirements.** You still need:

- **Architectural Committee approval** in writing before any building is commenced
- **Township permits** — a zoning compliance permit and a building permit
- To meet the **setbacks** from the road, the water and the outer side lines
- To stay within **25 percent lot coverage** across all structures

**Your assessment does not change.** The Association assesses on the lots as originally platted, so combining lots physically does not combine them for assessment. Each lot keeps its own classification, so combining two primary lots leaves you paying $200 + $200. See the article on splitting or combining lots.

**And note the reverse situation.** Some lots here **must be sold together** as one under the original declaration — Birchwood Heights, the Villas, Woodland Heights and Woodland Heights II each have pairings.

**Talk to the office and the Township first.** This is the sort of plan that is much cheaper to check than to correct.

*Source: Restrictive Covenants, Article VII, Section 4.*