Land records · Parcel maps · October 7, 2026
Architectural Review Committee: HOA Approvals
What an architectural review committee does: reviews owner plans for exterior changes in an HOA under recorded covenants and design guidelines.
Architectural review committee HOA refers to the committee or board in a homeowners association that reviews and approves owners’ plans for exterior changes, such as additions, fences, paint colors, roofing, landscaping, and solar panels. The committee’s authority comes from the recorded covenants, which usually require prior written approval for exterior work. Many communities also adopt design guidelines describing what is typically approved. Owners who build without approval may face fines, required removal, or legal action. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
What committees review
| Project | Often requires approval |
|---|---|
| Additions and decks | Yes |
| Fences | Yes |
| Exterior paint colors | Often |
| Roofing materials | Often |
| Landscaping changes | Sometimes |
| Solar panels | Often, subject to state laws |
| Sheds and pools | Yes |
Source of authority
The recorded declaration or covenants create the committee and set its powers. These are covenants running with the land. See how to find deed restrictions.
The approval process
- Review guidelines and covenants.
- Submit an application with plans, materials, and colors.
- Committee review within the time set by documents.
- Decision to approve, approve with conditions, or deny.
- Appeal to the board if allowed.
Some covenants deem applications approved if the committee does not respond within a deadline.
Reasonableness
Courts often require committees to act reasonably and in good faith, following their documents. Arbitrary or inconsistent decisions may be challenged.
State laws
Many states limit HOA restrictions on solar panels, flags, drought-tolerant landscaping, and electric vehicle chargers.
ARC vs government permits
HOA approval does not replace building permits, and permits do not replace HOA approval. Historic districts have a similar but governmental process. See what is a certificate of appropriateness.
Example
An owner wants to build a 6-foot privacy fence. The design guidelines allow only 4-foot black aluminum fences in front yards and 6-foot wood fences in rear yards. The committee approves a rear-yard wood fence with a condition on stain color.
Buying in an HOA
Buyers should review guidelines and ask about unresolved violations. See how to find out if a property is in an HOA.
Tips for a smooth application
Include a site plan showing where the project sits relative to property lines, photos of the existing house, product specifications, and color samples. Show how the project meets each relevant guideline. Talking to neighbors in advance can reduce objections. If the committee denies the request, ask which guidelines were not met and whether a revised design would be acceptable.
Records of approvals
Keep copies of written approvals. When selling, buyers may ask for proof that past changes were approved, and an estoppel or resale certificate may list open violations. Unapproved older changes can complicate a sale.
Committee members
Committees are often made up of volunteer owners, sometimes with professional design help. Developers usually control the committee until most lots are sold.
Bottom line
An architectural review committee reviews HOA owners’ exterior changes under recorded covenants and design guidelines. Get written approval before starting work, and remember that building permits are separate. Review guidelines before buying. Explore subdivisions via the Platbookmapper map.
Architectural review committee hoa FAQ
What does an architectural review committee do?
Reviews and approves exterior changes in an HOA.
Do I need ARC approval to paint my house?
Often, for exterior color changes.
What if I build without approval?
You may face fines or required removal.
Can an ARC deny solar panels?
State laws often limit such restrictions.
Does ARC approval replace a building permit?
No, both may be needed.