If you live in a planned community, the recorded documents (CC&Rs, design guidelines) usually require approval before exterior changes - paint colors, patio covers, fences, landscaping, roofing, solar and additions. HOA approval is separate from a building permit: you may need both.
Step by step
Read the CC&Rs and design guidelines (ask the management company).
Talk to your neighbors if the change affects them.
Prepare your submittal: drawing or photo, materials, colors, dimensions, location on the lot, contractor info.
Submit and get written approval before work starts.
Pull the building permit if required.
Build exactly what was approved; submit changes for approval too.
Submittal checklist
Arizona notes
A.R.S. 33-1817 requires an HOA design or architectural committee to include at least one board member who chairs it, and says approval of a construction project's designs and plans shall not unreasonably be withheld.
A.R.S. 33-1816 says an HOA can't prohibit solar energy devices, though it can adopt reasonable placement rules that don't impair function or add cost.
These statutes apply to planned communities; condominiums have separate statutes. Read the exact text or ask an attorney for your situation.
External sites open in a new tab; Corky's MHS™ is not affiliated with them. Statutes and agency pages change - check the current version.
Please note
Educational information only - not legal, engineering or code advice. Rules vary by state, county and city, and change over time. Check with your local building department and licensing board, and read your own contract.
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