This section is intended to provide Subdivision Trustees with general information, which may assist them in their duties. Much of this information was provided by the
St. Louis County Department of Planning.
Subdivision Associations
Subdivision associations are formal, legal entities created to maintain common grounds and to enforce trust indentures.
Private Subdivision Association Details
- Membership is mandatory for all homeowners within the boundaries of the subdivision
- Members are charged annual and special assessments or fees
- Subdivision associations are corporations with formal by-laws; there is usually a governing board, and sometimes a private management firm to manage maintenance and enforcement issues
- Subdivision associations have the authority to instill and enforce restrictions and design standards, which are in addition to municipal or county ordinances
- Subdivision associations provide a unified voice in matters of civic interest
- Subdivision associations typically have a governing board of three trustees
Subdivision Trust Indentures
A subdivision trust indenture sets out the physical boundaries of the subdivision, describes the responsibilities and powers of the association, and details the rules and procedures by which the subdivision operates. Indentures are in place to protect the aesthetics and value of a neighborhood.
Indentures are legally-binding, recorded documents recognized by the State of Missouri and recorded with the St. Louis County Recorder of Deeds Office.
Indentures also dictate the process for electing subdivision trustees. Working under the constraints of the indenture, trustees oversee the collection of annual and special assessments, and oversee the maintenance of the subdivision.