Call or Text: 219-232-8133
🌳 Willow Creek Crossing – Community Rules & Regulations
Applies to: All tenants, occupants, guests, and visitors at Willow Creek Crossing
Community Rules & Regulations
🔐 1. General Conduct
-
Respect for Community: All residents, guests, and visitors must behave in a manner that promotes a peaceful, respectful, and safe community. Tenants are responsible for the conduct of their household members and guests at all times.
-
Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM daily. During these hours, all noise (including music, TV, pets, and gatherings) must be kept to a minimum. Noise disturbances at any hour that interfere with neighbors’ peaceful enjoyment of their home are not permitted.
-
Lot Respect: Residents, guests, and visitors may not walk, bike, or drive through adjacent lots, whether occupied or vacant. All travel must occur on roadways, driveways, or designated walking paths. This rule is in place to preserve resident privacy and prevent property damage.
-
Harassment & Threats: Verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, harassment, or discriminatory behavior of any kind toward other residents, staff, or vendors will result in immediate lease enforcement action.
-
Criminal Activity: Any use of the home, lot, or common areas for illegal purposes (e.g., drug use or sales, prostitution, illegal gambling, theft, or violence) is strictly prohibited and grounds for immediate lease termination.
-
Law Enforcement Calls: Repeated disturbances involving law enforcement or verified complaints from neighbors may result in lease non-renewal or termination, even if criminal charges are not filed.
🏡 2. Use & Occupancy
-
Approved Residents Only: Only individuals listed by name on the signed lease agreement may reside in the home. Any non-dependent person over age 18 must submit an application, undergo a background check, and be approved in writing by management prior to moving in. No verbal agreements or informal arrangements are valid.
-
Guest Policy: Guests may stay up to 3 consecutive nights and no more than 6 total nights per calendar month without written approval from management. Repeated visits or rotating guests intended to bypass this limit will be considered unauthorized occupancy. Extended guests, live-in caregivers, or adult children must be pre-approved in writing.
-
Unauthorized Occupants: Any person living in the home, storing personal belongings, or staying overnight more than 6 nights per month without being listed on the lease is considered an unauthorized occupant. This is a serious lease violation and may result in immediate fines, a Notice to Comply, or termination of tenancy.
-
Subletting & Short-Term Rentals: Tenants may not sublet, assign, or share any portion of their home or lot without prior written approval from management. This includes temporary arrangements, Airbnb/Vrbo listings, rent-to-own schemes, or “room-for-rent” setups. Violations may result in immediate lease termination and loss of eligibility for future tenancy.
-
Violations & Fines: Unauthorized occupants or extended guest violations may result in a $100 fine for the first offense, $200 for the second, and $25 per day for ongoing violations. Management reserves the right to adjust fines based on severity or repeated disregard for rules.
🐾 3. Pet Policy
-
Pet Approval Required: Pets are only allowed with prior written approval from management and must be documented in the lease agreement. A maximum of one pet per household is permitted unless an exception is granted in writing.
-
Registration: All approved pets must be registered with management and accompanied by current vaccination records and, if applicable, proof of local licensing.
-
Supervision & Behavior: Pets must be leashed and under adult control at all times while outdoors. Tethering is strictly prohibited, and pets may not be left outside unattended at any time.
-
Nuisance Behavior: Constant barking, aggressive behavior, or any activity that causes a disturbance to neighbors is not permitted. Repeated complaints may result in pet removal or loss of pet privileges.
-
Clean-Up: Pet waste must be picked up immediately and properly disposed of.
-
Prohibited Pets: Aggressive dog breeds (including but not limited to Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans), exotic animals (snakes, reptiles, etc.), and animals over 45 lbs are not permitted. Aquariums are not allowed in park-owned homes.
-
Liability: Tenants are fully responsible for any injury or damage caused by their pets and must carry renter’s insurance that includes pet liability coverage.
-
Violations & Fines: Unapproved or unauthorized pets may result in a $150 fine, and continued violations may lead to $25/day penalties or removal requirements. Pet waste left unattended may result in a $50 fine per incident. Management may increase fines for repeated or severe violations.
🚗 4. Parking & Vehicles
-
Vehicle Limits: A maximum of two vehicles per lot is allowed unless prior written approval is granted by management.
-
Registration Required: All vehicles must be registered with management and display valid license plates at all times. Unregistered or expired vehicles are subject to removal.
-
Operational Condition: Vehicles must be fully operational. Flat tires, missing parts, or inoperable conditions are not permitted.
-
Prohibited Vehicles: RVs, boats, trailers, commercial vehicles, and oversized trucks are not allowed without written approval from management.
-
No Parking on Grass or Streets: Vehicles must be parked only on approved paved or gravel driveways. Parking on the lawn, sidewalks, or streets is not permitted.
-
Speed Limit: The speed limit throughout all roads within Willow Creek Crossing is 5 MPH and applies to all vehicles, including residents, guests, vendors, and delivery drivers. Speeding is a safety hazard and may result in written warnings, fines, or loss of vehicle privileges within the community.
-
No Repairs or Dismantling: Vehicle repairs, oil changes, or car part removal/dismantling are not permitted on the premises.
-
Towing Policy: Violations of parking or vehicle rules may result in towing at the vehicle owner’s expense after proper notice is given in accordance with Indiana law.
-
Prohibited Vehicles: The following types of vehicles are not allowed to be parked or stored in the community at any time without express written approval from management:
☐ Semi-trucks or tractor trailers
☐ Box trucks, delivery vans, or oversized commercial vehicles
☐ Vehicles with visible external signage or advertisements
☐ Vehicles with flat tires, broken windows, or in visible disrepair
☐ Off-road vehicles, ATVs, or dirt bikes
☐ Vehicles used primarily for storage -
Any prohibited vehicle is subject to towing at the owner's expense with proper notice under Indiana law.
-
Violations & Fines: Parking on the grass or streets may result in a $50 fine per incident, and unauthorized or inoperable vehicles may be fined $100 or towed at tenant expense with notice. Repeat or prolonged violations may result in $25/day fines until resolved.
🧹 5. Lot Maintenance
-
Yard Maintenance: Residents are responsible for mowing, weeding, trimming, and general upkeep of their lot, including under the home and around any structures. Grass must be kept below 6 inches in height.
-
Clutter & Storage: Yards must remain free of excessive clutter, unused equipment, garbage, or debris. Only approved outdoor items such as patio furniture and grills in good condition are allowed. Bicycles, toys, and other items must be neatly stored and not left scattered.
-
Trash & Containers: Trash and recycling containers must be kept out of sight from the street except for pickup day. Cans may be placed at the curb no earlier than the evening before pickup and must be removed by the end of collection day. Large trash items not fitting in bins may only be placed curbside within 24 hours of scheduled bulk pickup. If items are missed by the hauler, the tenant must remove them within 24 hours or face fines and cleanup fees.
-
Temporary Structures & Covers: Pop-up tents, temporary fabric structures, and blue tarps are not permitted anywhere on the lot or home exterior. Neutral-colored protective covers (gray, beige) may be used only with prior written approval and must be in good condition. Unapproved items may be removed by management.
-
Seasonal Decorations: Decorations must be reasonable and removed within 30 days following the associated holiday.
-
Snow & Ice: Tenants are responsible for keeping their driveways, steps, and walkways clear of snow and ice during winter months.
-
Alterations Require Approval: Residents may not install or remove fencing, decks, trees, flower beds, garden boxes, or other exterior features without prior written approval from management.
-
Management-Corrected Cleanup: If a tenant fails to maintain their lot in accordance with community standards (e.g., tall grass, trash, clutter), and management must step in to perform cleanup, the tenant will be charged a maintenance fee of $25 per hour plus material disposal costs. Repeated offenses may result in fines or lease enforcement.
-
Violations & Fines: Failure to maintain lawn, remove clutter, or properly manage trash may result in a $50–$100 fine per violation, or a $25/hour fee plus materials if management is required to clean the lot. Repeated trash violations may result in $25/day fines.
🚿 6. Utilities & Water
-
Utility Activation: All park-owned homes must maintain active electricity and gas service in the tenant's name throughout the lease term. Disconnecting service is a lease violation and may result in lease enforcement action.
-
Winterization Requirements: Heat tape must be installed and operational during cold months to prevent frozen pipes. Tenants are responsible for pipe damage caused by neglect or lack of heat.
-
Toilet Use & Plumbing: Only toilet paper may be flushed. Wipes (even flushable), paper towels, diapers, feminine products, and grease must be disposed of in the trash. These items clog the sewer system and cause costly damage.
-
Tampering Prohibited: Tenants may not tamper with, bypass, or alter water meters, electric panels, gas lines, or utility shutoffs.
-
Backflow Prevention: All exterior spigots must be fitted with an approved anti-siphon valve (available at hardware stores). Tenants must install one if it is missing.
-
Report Issues Promptly: Tenants must notify management immediately of any leaks, sewer backups, or utility malfunctions. Failure to report known problems may result in tenant liability for damages.
-
Water Conservation: Excessive water use, such as leaving hoses running or unattended sprinklers, is prohibited unless authorized in writing.
-
Violations & Fines: Tampering with utility systems or failure to winterize water lines may result in fines starting at $100, plus any costs associated with damages. Repeated misuse of plumbing (e.g., flushing wipes or grease) may result in $50–$100 fines per occurrence.
🔥 7. Fire Safety & Health
-
Open Flames Prohibited: The use of fireworks, fire pits, chimineas, bonfires, or open flames is strictly prohibited anywhere on the property.
-
Grill Use: Propane grills may be used outdoors only if placed at least 10 feet away from the home, awnings, skirting, or other flammable surfaces. Charcoal grills and open flame cooking appliances are not permitted on decks or within enclosed spaces.
-
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Tenants must ensure all smoke and CO detectors in the home are functional and regularly tested. Missing or disabled detectors must be replaced immediately. Park-owned homes are inspected regularly for compliance.
-
Fire Extinguishers: All homes are required to have at least one working fire extinguisher readily accessible in the kitchen area.
-
Electrical Safety: The use of outdoor extension cords for permanent power is not permitted. Extension cords may not be run through windows or doors. Power strips with surge protection must be used indoors.
-
Flammable Materials: Storing gasoline, propane tanks (other than for grills), kerosene, or other flammable substances inside or under the home is strictly prohibited.
-
Space Heaters: Only UL-rated electric space heaters with auto shut-off may be used. Do not leave them unattended or place them near bedding, furniture, or curtains.
-
Violations & Fines: Violations involving fireworks, unsafe grill use, open flames, or disabled smoke/CO detectors may result in a $100 fine, or higher based on severity. Repeat fire safety offenses may lead to lease termination.
🚫 8. Prohibited Items
-
Prohibited Without Written Approval: The following items are not permitted on any lot without prior written approval from management:
☐ Sheds or storage units
☐ Decks or porches
☐ Fences or enclosures
☐ Generators
☐ Trampolines, inflatable pools, or swing sets
Fence Requirements: If a fence is approved, it must be professionally installed, fully enclosed with a working gate, and located behind the front line of the home. A diagram and picture of the proposed fence location must be submitted for approval. -
Outdoor Items & Appliances: Only standard patio furniture in good condition is allowed outside. Refrigerators, washers/dryers, indoor furniture, broken furniture, or other large appliances may not be stored outside or on porches.
-
Junk Materials & Storage: Tires, scrap metal, construction debris, wood piles, and other salvage items are strictly prohibited from being stored anywhere on the lot.
-
Business Operations: Residents may not operate a business from the home or lot that results in increased traffic, signage, visible inventory, or onsite services. This includes auto repair, salons, resale shops, or similar operations. Limited remote or home office work is permitted.
-
Violations & Fines: Unauthorized structures or prohibited items (e.g., blue tarps, trampolines, unapproved appliances) may result in $50–$100 fines per item, and tenants will be required to remove them within a management-specified timeframe. Failure to comply may result in $25/day penalties.
🕵️ 9. Inspections & Access
-
Right of Entry: In accordance with Indiana Code § 32-31-5-6, management may enter the home or lot with at least 24 hours’ notice, during reasonable hours, for purposes including:
☐ Routine inspections of park owned homes
☐ Preventive maintenance
☐ Repairs or service work
☐ Health/safety evaluations
☐ Move-in/move-out assessments
☐ Emergency access (no prior notice required) -
Inspection Frequency: Regular semi-annual inspections will be scheduled for all park-owned homes. Additional inspections may be conducted based on maintenance needs, weather events, or reported issues.
-
Pet Safety: Tenants must secure pets during the time of any scheduled inspection. Management is not responsible for pets that escape during entry.
-
Access Requirement: Refusing to allow access or interfering with scheduled inspections is a lease violation and may result in fines, notice to vacate, or non-renewal of tenancy.
-
Violations & Fines: Refusing access during scheduled inspections or interfering with entry may result in a $100 fine per incident. Repeated refusal may lead to lease termination or non-renewal.
📩 10. Notices, Fines & Lease Enforcement
-
Fines will be assessed according to the Willow Creek Crossing Fine Schedule, which is available upon request and may be posted on our website. Management reserves the right to escalate fines or proceed with lease enforcement based on the severity or repetition of violations. In cases not listed in the fine schedule, reasonable fines may be imposed.
-
Notice Types: Tenants may receive one or more of the following notices for violations:
☐ Verbal or written warning
☐ Notice to Comply
☐ Notice of Violation
☐ Notice to Vacate
☐ Non-Renewal of Lease -
Fines: Fines may be imposed for any lease or rule violation, including but not limited to property damage, improper parking, unauthorized occupants, or failure to maintain the lot. Repeat violations may result in increased fine amounts or termination of tenancy.
-
Responsibility: Tenants are responsible for ensuring that all members of their household, pets, guests, and visitors follow the community rules. Violations by any of these parties will be treated as violations by the tenant.
-
Legal Costs: Tenants are responsible for any legal, administrative, or enforcement costs incurred due to their non-compliance, including court costs and attorney fees.
-
Notice Delivery: Official notices may be delivered in person, by email, by first-class mail, or posted on the door of the residence.
-
Fine Policy: Fines are assessed based on the nature and frequency of the violation. Initial fines typically range from $25 to $150, with repeat or ongoing violations subject to daily penalties or further lease enforcement. Management reserves the right to increase or reduce fines based on circumstances, severity, and history of compliance.
🔒 11. Security Cameras & Surveillance
-
Personal Cameras: Residents may install exterior cameras (e.g., Ring, Blink) only if the device is mounted on their home and pointed solely at their own lot, driveway, or entryway.
-
Privacy Boundaries: Cameras may not be aimed at neighboring lots, windows, or shared spaces (e.g., mailboxes, roadways, or common areas) without express written consent from management.
-
Community Surveillance: Willow Creek Crossing may install surveillance cameras in community areas to enhance safety. Tenants may not tamper with or obstruct these systems.
-
Recording Responsibility: Residents are solely responsible for ensuring their security systems comply with privacy and recording laws.
🛻 12. RV Tenant Guidelines
-
Approval & Registration: All RVs must be approved by management prior to placement and must be fully operable, registered, and self-contained.
-
Site Setup: RVs must be parked on approved pads and connected only to authorized electric, water, and sewer hookups. Sewer hoses must be in good condition and securely sealed with an elbow adapter.
-
Appearance: RVs must be well-maintained in exterior appearance. Window coverings must be professional (no tarps, cardboard, etc.).
-
Add-ons: Skirting, deck structures, portable sheds, or fences must be pre-approved.
-
Occupancy: Maximum of 2 adults and 2 children per RV unless otherwise approved in writing.
-
Short-Term Guests: Short-term guests must be registered with management and follow all community rules.
🧼 13. Pest & Sanitation Responsibilities
-
Cleanliness Standards: Tenants must keep the interior and exterior of the home in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition to prevent infestations.
-
Trash Management: Trash must be stored in sealed containers and removed regularly. Leaving open food, dirty dishes, standing water, or garbage bags outside is prohibited.
-
Pest Control: Tenants are responsible for addressing routine pest issues (e.g., ants, spiders, small rodents). Management will address structural infestations only in park-owned homes.
-
Bed Bugs & Roaches: Any suspected bed bug or roach activity must be reported immediately. Failure to cooperate with treatment protocols may result in fines or lease termination.
📡 14. Forms of Communication & Website Updates
Delivery of Notices: Official communications (e.g., rule updates, inspection notices, maintenance alerts) may be delivered via:
☐ First-class mail
☐ Email
☐ Posted notice on door
☐ Community bulletin board or signage
☐ Text messaging (where opt-in is provided)
Responsibility: Tenants must provide current contact information to management and notify the office of any changes.
Website for Updates: The most current version of the Rules & Regulations and all important community updates are always available at:
🌐 www.willowcreekcrossing.com
🛡️ 15. Insurance Requirement
All tenants are required to maintain renter’s or homeowner’s insurance with a minimum of $100,000 in liability coverage.
-
Residents of park-owned homes must carry active renter’s insurance.
-
Residents of personally owned homes may be required to list the landlord as an additional insured.
-
Proof of coverage must be provided at move-in and upon request at any time.
Failure to maintain required insurance may result in non-renewal or lease enforcement action.
🏠 16. Homeownership Verification (If Applicable)
Tenant-Owned Home Requirements, residents of privately owned manufactured homes must provide the following before moving in:
-
A copy of the state-issued title showing ownership.
-
Proof of owner-occupancy (home must be primary residence).
-
Management reserves the right to verify that no subletting or leaseback arrangement exists.
-
Only homes in safe, well-maintained condition will be approved for placement or resale in the community.
⛏️ 17. Construction, Digging & Permits
-
No resident may dig, trench, or insert stakes/rods into the ground without prior written permission.
-
Residents must submit a site diagram and obtain approval before making exterior modifications such as fences, sheds, or patios.
-
If required by local code, tenants must obtain a building permit and provide a copy to management before work begins.
-
Any contractor used must be licensed and insured.
Damage to underground utilities caused by unapproved work will be the financial responsibility of the tenant.
📄 Acknowledgment
These Community Rules & Regulations are part of your lease agreement and are legally binding. By signing or renewing a lease at Willow Creek Crossing, you agree to follow all rules outlined herein, as well as any updates that may be made by management.
Rules and regulations may be revised from time to time to maintain the safety, cleanliness, and livability of the community. Any such changes will be provided to tenants with at least 30 days' notice, either via email, printed notice, or by posting on our website:
Failure to comply with these rules may result in fines, non-renewal, or lease termination in accordance with Indiana law and the terms of your lease.