Terms & Conditions - the basics
​​​What You Need to Know Before Purchasing Property in Bent Tree Harbor
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Buying property in Bent Tree Harbor is different from purchasing land in a typical rural subdivision. Because this is a private, gated community with shared utilities and environmental requirements, there are rules that apply to every lot. This page explains the basics so buyers understand how properties here are used and what documents affect them.
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The Documents That Govern the Community
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Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs)
The CC&Rs are recorded rules tied to every lot. They explain:
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How different lots are intended to be used (camping lots, multipurpose building lots, etc.)
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What types of structures are allowed
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Required setbacks, building limits, and use restrictions
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Basic expectations for maintaining a property
These rules stay with the land, even when the owner changes.
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Bylaws
The bylaws describe how the HOA operates. They cover:
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How trustees are elected
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How meetings and voting are handled
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How dues, assessments, and enforcement processes work
The bylaws guide how the association runs its business, while the CC&Rs guide how land in the community can be used.
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Environmental and Wastewater Requirements
Bent Tree Harbor must follow wastewater and environmental rules established by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR). These requirements include:
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Proper installation and maintenance of holding tanks
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Sanitation standards that all lots must follow
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Environmental rules that limit how property can be used
Both the HOA and the State have enforcement authority when it comes to these requirements.
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Status of the Abatement Order
Bent Tree Harbor is currently operating under an Abatement Order on Consent with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. The community is in the final stages of meeting the remaining requirements, and the understanding between the HOA and the State is that the AOC will be closed once compliance is officially confirmed.
As the AOC is phased out, any lot-specific situations identified during the compliance process are being documented through recorded deviations. These deviations are filed with the Association and the DNR, and, as required or appropriate, may also be filed/recorded with other applicable authorities. They clarify the approved, lot-specific conditions that may differ from the standard CC&Rs.
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Residency and Recorded Deviations
Not every lot in Bent Tree Harbor is eligible for full-time living. Because of environmental and wastewater limitations, year-round use depends on how each property is classified.
Some lots have recorded deviations, which are legally filed documents that describe an approved variation or exception specific to that property. These deviations:
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Apply only to the lot they are recorded on
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Do not automatically transfer unless properly recorded
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Define how that individual lot can be used moving forward
If a lot does not have a recorded deviation, it is expected to follow the standard CC&Rs and the current DNR requirements. Buyers should verify whether a property has any recorded deviations before assuming it can be used in a way that differs from the standard rules.
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Why This Information Matters
Bent Tree Harbor has unique environmental requirements and community rules that affect how property can be used. Understanding the CC&Rs, the bylaws, and any recorded deviations helps buyers make informed decisions and prevents misunderstandings later.
Reviewing these documents before purchasing is the best way to ensure the property fits the use you have in mind.
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Steps to Purchase Responsibly
(Information provided as a general resource. This is an unofficial community website.)
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1. Review the Governing Documents
Prospective buyers are encouraged to look over the CC&Rs, Bylaws, and applicable environmental requirements so they understand how property use works within the subdivision. These documents can be obtained through the HOA office or other official sources.
2. Confirm the Lot Type and Intended Use
Each lot in Bent Tree Harbor has a designated use, such as a camping lot or a multipurpose building lot. It’s a good idea to confirm the lot type so you know whether it matches your plans.
3. Check for Any Recorded Deviations
Some lots may have recorded deviations (also called variations or exceptions) that outline approved, lot-specific conditions.
If a seller mentions any special permissions or unique circumstances, simply ask for written documentation showing the deviation is recorded with the Association.
This helps ensure everyone has clear and consistent information.
4. Understand Allowed Uses Before Closing
Rules relating to structures, seasonal use, and year-round use can differ from lot to lot. Reviewing these details ahead of time helps prevent misunderstandings after a purchase.
5. Need Assistance or Clarification?
Questions about a specific property—such as its lot type, any recorded deviations, or how particular rules apply—can be directed to the HOA Board of Trustees or the HOA office, as they are the official sources of information.
This website can offer general guidance, but official confirmation should always come from the HOA.
Friendly Reminder
Avoid assuming that a lot has special permissions, exceptions, or year-round use rights unless this is confirmed in writing through official records.
Verifying ahead of time protects both buyers and sellers and keeps expectations clear.
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31321 Bent Tree Dr, Warsaw, MO 65355, USA
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Disclaimer
© 2025 Bent Tree Harbor HOA. All rights reserved. Bent Tree Harbor HOA Dominion is a privately owned domain. This website is independently maintained and is not affiliated with or sanctioned by the Bent Tree Harbor HOA trustees. Content here reflects the perspective of a community member, not an official Trustee communication. This site is an unofficial community resource for Bent Tree Harbor property owners, residents, visitors and anyone interested in learning more about the community.
For official business, please contact the Bent Tree Harbor office directly using the official phone number 660-438-7163 email address Benttreeharbor @yahoo.com.