Architectural Approval

Overview

Article VI of the Declaration requires the Association to maintain an Architectural Approval Committee (AAC) to review exterior projects before they’re built. The AAC’s stated purpose is to protect the curb appeal and property values that come with Shelter Lakes’ larger lots and visual privacy — and to consider any project that could affect a neighbor, even one that isn’t visible from the road.

What Needs Approval

In general, the AAC must review any significant exterior modification, color change, improvement, or addition — including landscaping, patios, and decks — that could be seen from the road by a passing motorist or walker, or seen or heard by a neighbor. That covers things like:

• Additions or structural changes to the house
• Fences, walls, or outbuildings
• Driveways or significant landscaping changes
• Patios, decks, basketball courts, play yards, or swimming pools
• Clearing of trees
• Antennas or satellite dishes (subject to FCC rules)
• Any other change affecting the exterior appearance of the property

Interior renovations that don’t affect the exterior generally do not require approval.

How the AAC Works

The AAC is composed of three members who review applications and decide by majority vote. If the committee seat is vacant, the Shelter Lakes Board of Directors acts as the AAC.

• If an application isn’t approved, the project can’t proceed until it’s modified and approved.
• Work done without submitting an application — or despite a disapproval — can be pursued by the HOA through the courts.

Neighbor Sign-Off

For projects that could have a serious visual or noise impact on adjacent neighbors — a basketball court, play yard, swimming pool, tree clearing, fencing, and similar projects — the submittal form has space for up to three neighbors to sign indicating their approval. This isn’t a veto; it’s documentation the AAC can weigh alongside the rest of the application.

How to Submit

1. Describe the planned improvement in detail — materials, colors, dimensions — or attach architectural plans and specifications.
2. If neighbors could be visually or audibly affected, ask them to sign the neighbor sign-off section.
3. Submit the completed form by email, hand delivery, or mail (see below), and wait for written approval before starting work.

Download the Form