HOA topic guide
How does the HOA Architectural Review Committee (ARC) process work?
The Architectural Review Committee (ARC), also called the Architectural Control Committee (ACC) or Design Review Committee, is the gatekeeper for exterior modifications in most planned communities. Its charge is to review proposed changes against the Declaration's architectural standards and, where adopted, community-specific design guidelines. The ARC's authority is delegated from the board, and its decisions must be consistent with the standards set in the governing documents — the ARC cannot simply reject a proposal for aesthetic reasons not grounded in those standards. Owners who proceed without ARC approval risk mandatory removal of the unapproved work, fines, and potential legal action.
What most CC&Rs say
Most CC&Rs establish the ARC as a committee of three to five members appointed by the board, at least some of whom must be homeowners. Written application — including a description of the proposed work, scaled drawings or photographs, material specifications, and color samples — is typically required before work begins. Review periods run 30-60 days, and many documents include a 'deemed approved' provision that automatically approves the application if the ARC fails to act within the stated period. Approval conditions (required modifications to the plan) must be accepted in writing. If the ARC denies an application, most documents provide an appeal pathway to the full board. Approved modifications typically must begin within 6 months and be completed within 12 months.
Every HOA's governing documents differ. The patterns above reflect common drafting conventions — your CC&Rs may be more or less restrictive.
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