A-Z Homeowner Handbook - Terramar Beach

A-Z Owner Handbook

Did You Know?

The Terramar Beach Community Improvement Association incorporates approximately 590 properties on the west end of Galveston Island, TX. Our community includes 8 sections, all defined by their own deed restrictions.

Terramar Beach offers a relaxing, paradise-like atmosphere and is home to many full and part-time homeowners on the west end.

About Our Administration

TBCIA is managed by Athena Management, Stacy Everett and governed by a Board of Directors comprised of 4 officers and 8 section representatives who each serve two-year terms.

Communication is Key

How & Why We Need to Communicate

REQUIRED HOMEOWNER REGISTRATION:

ALL HOMEOWNERS ARE REQUIRED TO REGISTER THEIR CONTACT INFORMATION WITH ATHENA MANAGEMENT. If you are a new homeowner or if your contact information has changed, please email the following information to Stacy Everett at stacy@athenamgmt.com or call 346-328-2775

Property Owner Name(s)
Property Address(es) in the Terramar Community (include address of all lots)
Primary Mailing Address for Property Owner*
Best Telephone Contact Numbers (the more included the better)
# of Lots Owned
Email Address(es)
Most TBCIA owners’ primary residences are not in Galveston. If your primary residence changes, please notify Athena of the updated mailing address.

REGISTER TO BE INCLUDED IN THE TERRAMAR BEACH PROPERTY OWNER DIRECTORY:

If you would like your contact information listed in the Property Owner Directory, which is available to all homeowners, please complete the Directory Form and submit to Charlotte Dickerman at charlotte@dickerman.com. The directory is updated annually and will be published on this website under the Members/Owners section for privacy.

Neighborhood Security Information
Deed Restrictions by Section
Architectural Control Committee Documents
Terramar Beach Property Owners Directory
Terramar Community Property Section Map
TBCIA Family and Social Event Information
Direct Links to Homeowner and Galveston Resources
Weather and Storm Information

Emails from the Board

Emails from the Board are distributed by Athena Management to all homeowners who have provided their contact information to the Board or directly to Athena Management.
It is imperative that you register as a homeowner to receive important notices regarding our community and your property.
The same contact information will be used to reach you in the event of an emergency and you cannot be present on the island.
Being listed in the Property Owner Directory will also allow you to stay in touch with your neighbors and allow them to stay in touch with you!

Receive City of Galveston Emergency Messages Directly to Your Phone

The City of Galveston offers a communication program that provides important alerts directly to your phone. To register for the Emergency Notification System go to: www.galvestontx.gov/196/Emergency-Notification-System.com

Annual Homeowner Dues

Annual homeowner dues are due on or before January 1. Each homeowner receives notice of the amount due by email in the month of December. Annual homeowner dues are currently $550 for all properties, improved and unimproved. All Section deed restrictions are posted on the TBCIA Website. Failure to pay timely may result in additional fees.

All Section deed restrictions are posted on the TBCIA Website. Failure to pay timely may result in additional fees. All questions or concerns can be directed to Stacy Everett at 346-328-2775 or by email at stacy@athenamgmt.com.

What Do You Get for Your Annual Maintenance Fee?

Contracted services of a reputable property management company
A multi-camera security surveillance system aimed at deterring crime
Seasonal contracted security patrol
Landscaping at the entrance and throughout common areas, all maintained by your HOA
Routine inspections performed by the Architectural Control Committee to ensure compliance of all deed restrictions.
Community events and social activities provided throughout the year for the enjoyment of all
Community swimming pool, boat launch for quick access to the waterways, and use of a community pier and pavilion.

Where are the Deed Restrictions, Dedicatory Documents and Guidelines?

TBCIA Deed Restrictions and Dedicatory Documents can be found under the Member/Owner page

Each TBCIA Section Has Its Own Deed Restrictions

Each section of TBCIA is governed by its own deed restrictions which provide rules and regulations to protect the value of our homes and our neighborhood. Some topics found in your deed restrictions include:

Property owners may report deed restriction violations to Athena Management by emailing Stacy Everett at stacy@athenamgmt.com All deed restriction violations are to be kept confidential to protect property owner rights.

Not Sure Which TBCIA Section Your Property Is In?

Section maps can be found under the Documents & Forms page
To find your section, you can also refer to your property survey or the deed restrictions you were given when you purchased your home.
You can do a “property search” at the Galveston Central Appraisal District’s website: www.esearch.galvestoncad.org/. The search feature is located in the lower left corner of the website page.

Beaches & Dunes

Promote Clean Beaches!

Galveston has implemented a “Leave No Trace” ordinance to help promote clean beaches.
Please be aware that canopies, tents, umbrellas, beach chairs and other items left on the beach overnight will be removed and discarded by the city of Galveston.

Prohibited on Island Beaches:

Glass containers
Alcohol
Overnight camping (between 12 midnight and 5 a.m.)
Bonfires and campfires, unless wholly contained in a grill, hibachi or other stove device and charcoal, butane or other flammable petroleum product is used as a fuel
Fireworks
Vehicles (except city vehicles and golf carts with a city handicapped placard)
Unleashed dogs

Protect Our Dunes!

Sand dunes are protected by state law. As our first line of defense against coastal storm and beach erosion, dunes help absorb the impact of storm surge and high waves and help prevent flooding of inland areas and damage to structures. It is against the law to walk on dunes, let children play on them, drive ATVs on them or remove any vegetation from them. Snakes live in dunes and can be dangerous.

Emergency Contacts

TBCIA properties are located inside the city of Galveston (COG), and we rely on the city to provide security and emergency services as our first line of protection. If you see a security or safety threat, Call the City of Galveston first Call the City of Galveston first if you see a security or safety threat!

Fireworks

Must Know!

Fireworks are strictly prohibited anywhere on Galveston Island, including on the beach. Violators may be ticketed by Galveston Police Department and fireworks confiscated.

Golf Cart Registration

Know the Rules

Golf carts require a permit from the city of Galveston, and you MUST be a licensed driver to operate one. Per COG regulations, underage drivers are strictly prohibited from operating golf carts and violations may be subject to ticking.

Please note the following:

The Golf Cart Ordinance outlines the specific areas where golf carts may be driven and what golf cart safety features are required in the eastern and western portions of the island
Golf carts must be inspected and proof of insurance must be presented at the time of inspection
Driving on any Terramar beach is prohibited unless a city-issued handicapped placard is displayed on the golf cart
Golf carts may not be driven in areas where the posted speed limit is more than 35 miles per hour, including FM 3005
Golf cart permits may be obtained at the Galveston Police Dept., 601 54th St., 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. Golf Cart Registration forms can be found at: www.forms.galvestontx.gov/Forms/GolfCart
Each registered golf cart will be issued a permit decal and a license plate, both of which must be clearly displayed on your golf cart

For more golf cart information and facts visit: https://galvestontx.gov/faq.aspx?qid=173.

Grills & Outdoor Cooking

Grilling on the deck of homes is a fire hazard and prohibited by city ordinance.

How the mail works at Terramar Beach

Cluster mailbox units are located at the mailbox pavilion near the pool. To obtain a mailbox, visit the Galveston Post Office branch office at 5826 Broadway or 601 Tremont. More information can be found at: www.postallocations.com/tx/galveston/galveston.

Be aware that many package delivery services may elect to deliver your package via USPS (United States Postal Service)
If you do not have a parcel box, your package will likely be returned to the sender.
If you have a parcel box, you MUST use both your physical street address and your parcel box address if you expect delivery to your parcel box.

Mosquito Control

Galveston County is responsible for mosquito control. Contact them at 1.(800).842.5622. to get information about the spraying in your area or to request spraying The county’s schedule for spraying and more information can be found at: www.galvestontx.gov/952/Mosquito-Control.

Outdoor Lighting

Home & Boat Dock Fishing Lights

TBCIA acknowledges the City of Galveston Ordinance for Outdoor Lighting to determine when outdoor lighting is a nuisance. This ordinance prohibits lights to be cast on abutting properties and applies to both home lighting and boat dock fishing lights.

Complaints about lighting can be directed to your Section Leader or Athena Management. If the issue is not resolved within 30 days, the COG can be notified, and the city will further pursue compliance.

The specific city ordinance and foot candle requirements be found in the Documents & Forms section under Policies & Guidelines

“Party House” – How to Report A Party House

Parties are not against the law as long as a law is not being broken, such as loud noise after 10 p.m., public intoxication, minors drinking alcohol or nuisance. For more information please visit www.galvestonparkboard.org/174/Short-Term-Rentals or call 409.797.5132. To report a loud party at a PPOA property:

Pets – Need to Know!

The City of Galveston Leash Ordinance requires all dogs be on a leash at all times, to be always on a leash unless you are at a designated dog park. Leashes cannot be longer than 6 feet. Per TBCIA deed restrictions, no more than 2 dogs and/or 2 cats are allowed per home. The City of Galveston Animal Excrement Ordinance states: “Owners of animals must pick up all of their animals’ excrement that is secreted off their property.” Please be pet-friendly and on the beach. Dog bites should be reported to the City Animal Control at 409-765-3702.

Renting Your House

Galveston Association of Vacation Rental Managers (GARM)

A number of TBCIA homeowners who rent their homes hire a property management company that is a member of the Galveston Association of Vacation Rental Managers (GARM): www.galvestonchamber.chambermaster.com/list/member/galveston-association-of-rental-managers-garm-9605. GARM helps rental property owners uphold “good neighbor” policies and adhere to city, county and state laws and ordinances. Problems at GARM rental properties can be reported to the GARM hotline at 409-682-3603. However, not every rental property is managed by GARM. For issues with non-GARM rental properties, call the City of Galveston non-emergency number first to report the issue.

Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT)

All short-term rental property owners must register with the Galveston Island Park Board of Trustees and are required to pay Hotel Occupancy Tax.
Property owners are responsible for collecting and remitting state and local taxes.
Local taxes help support beach cleaning, beach patrol, and promote tourism

Find Out if Your House or A Neighboring House is Registered

You can check with the Park Board at www.galvestonparkboard.org/174/Short-Term-Rentals or call 409-797-5132.

Security – What YOU Can Do to Help Keep Our Community Safe

Install a security camera system
Install outdoor lights around your home that comply with the City Outdoor Lighting Ordinance and do not encroach on neighboring properties
Keep your vehicle and home locked and garage door closed when not in use
KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS! Exchange contact information and look out for each other.
Post the City of Galveston Power of Attorney Form on your house. This lets the Galveston Police Department know that you have given your permission to on your property and to arrest (and subsequently file charges) on your behalf against any persons found trespassing or committing other crimes.
The Power of Attorney Form also allows GPD to act on behalf of the property owner for any court proceedings.
For more information: www.galvestontx.gov/746/Power-of-Attorney

Social Events

A fantastical parade of festooned walkers, wagons, bicycles, and golf carts make Independence Day in the TBCIA community unlike any other! After making its way through the neighborhood, this unforgettable family jamboree finishes with an after- party of prizes, hot dogs and watermelon. The event is free.

Other Social Events to look forward to

In 2022 our community adopted a Social Committee to oversee social events in effort to promote social gatherings and getting-to-know your neighbor opportunities. The Social Committee is a welcome addition to Terramar and we all look forward to what fun events they come up with next. The Social Committee is led by Lisa Cook and a team of committee members and volunteers who work hard to put together fun agendas for all Terramar homeowners. If you would like to participate or share your ideas, please contact Lisa Cook at: lcook240@aol.com.

Storm Preparedness

The Atlantic hurricane season is June through November, with peak season from mid-August to late October. Make sure you and your family are prepared. Always be ready for a storm.

Visit the City of Galveston’s Hurricane Preparedness webpage at: www.galvestontx.gov/491/Hurricane-Preparedness, During these months, always be ready for a storm:
Obtain your Terramar Beach decals for your vehicles. For re-entry at the Causeway, the City of Galveston will require one of the following:
- Current Texas driver’s license or identification card with Galveston address
- Recent utility bill with Galveston Island address and a picture ID
- Recent Galveston County property tax statement for Galveston Island address and a picture ID
- Proof of ownership (or employment with) a Galveston Island business and a picture ID
Gather emergency supplies in advance of hurricane seasons
Have a packed bag ready to go in the event you must evacuate
Secure your home, boat and outdoor furniture
Read your insurance policy
Residents who plan to trailer boats out should do so early! Do not wait
Don’t wait until evacuation is necessary to board up and secure your home
Monitor radio (KTRH 740AM), weather stations (The Weather Channel) and TV reports
Turn off your electricity at the breaker box and main disconnect, if you have one
Turn off water heaters and unplug all appliances
Clean out refrigerator and freezers
DO NOT shut off the gas to your house
Attend the annual Hurricane Preparedness Meetings hosted by the City of Galveston and Jamaica Beach Fire Department
Make certain that Athena Property Management and your Section Leader have your contact information in the event they need to contact you.

Trash Pickup Schedule & Roll Back Service

Monday is trash collection day for our community.

Please follow these City of Galveston regulations:

All trash belongs in city-issued garbage carts; do not place overflow trash bags on the ground next to the cart; do not overfill carts and make sure the lids are closed.
Place carts at curbside with handle facing your house; city trucks are automated.
Per city ordinance, property owners cannot leave garbage carts at the curbside except the evening before collection day and on collection day.
Carts can be placed on the curb after 5 p.m. Sunday and must be rolled back under the residence by 10 p.m. on Monday
Violators are subject to fines from the City of Galveston Marshall’s office. Trash cans left at the street are a hazard during high winds and rains.
If you already use a rollback service, please make sure they know that your carts must be cleared from the curbside on Monday to comply with the ordinance.
Bulk trash, which includes heavy items such as appliances, furniture or large piles of palm fronds and brush, is also collected up on the regularly scheduled trash day.
Simply set your bulk trash curbside next to your garbage cart, and a litter truck will collect your items.

NOTE: Any appliance that contains freon must have the freon removed and must be red- tagged by a certified technician before the sanitation crew can remove it.

Vote in Galveston – Why it Matters

The TBCIA community depends upon vital city services such as police, fire, trash, street maintenance and flood mitigation. TBCIA homeowners also are impacted by county and state decisions.

Your vote will help to ensure that:

Wildlife – What You Might See & Who to Call

Many types of wildlife are part of Galveston’s natural ecosystem, and a variety of wildlife can be seen in our very own neighborhood, including alligators, birds, coyote hybrids/red wolves, sea turtles and snakes. If you encounter a nuisance or injured animal, please call the Galveston Police Department Animal Control at 409-765-3702.

The City has developed a resource webpage that includes tips on interacting with Island wildlife: www.galvestontx.gov/1131/Wildlife-Resources.
Alligators may be seen throughout the community. For safety information: visit www.galvestontx.gov/1163/Alligator.
If you encounter or see an alligator, call Bet Jennings at 281-773-3477 or Jerry Mohn at 409-770-3138

Birds

Coyotes

Coyote /Red Wolf Hybrids sometimes prowl our neighborhoods. Pet owners please be aware. Coyotes as a species are here to stay. Coyotes impact us and our community and is the direct result of how human behavior shapes coyote behavior. We have the power to affect change individually and as a community because we must coexist with our neighbors – even the wild ones.

The City of Galveston website has important information on Coyote Management, Research, a Coyote Attractant Yard Audit and Coyote Response.

Sea Turtles

The endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle can be found on the Island during nesting season, April 1 – July 15. The turtles can be up to 2 feet long and weigh as much as 100 pounds. Female turtles swim ashore and lay their eggs on the beach in areas fortified by seaweed for camouflage. Turtle patrols are seen regularly on Galveston beaches. To report a nesting or stranded turtle, call 866-887-8535.

Snakes

Snakes are often seen in beach dunes and our canals. Important FAQs about snakes are found here: www.tpwd.texas.gov/education/hunter-education/online-course/preparation-and-survival/snakes.

YOGA for Terramar Beach Residents

Join neighbors and friends for yoga classes with Angela Guthrie. For dates and times and more information go to: www.seekpeaceyogagalveston.com

You & the TBCIA Community – Still Have a Question?

If you have cannot find the information you were looking for, feel free to send us a message under the “Contact Us” page.