Procedures for YHOA Architectural Review & Approval
Introduction
Article V of the YHOA Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (The Declaration) establishes the responsibilities of the Board of Directors (Board) or Architectural Review Committee (ARC) and lays out the procedures for making changes or additions to homes, structures, fences, walls, and buildings, etc… This document places limitations on the exterior changes homeowners may make to their property. The Declaration, a legal document, binding on all homeowners, is provided to each homeowner at settlement. Every homeowner is encouraged to read the document in its entirety and to refer to it before beginning exterior changes. Exterior changes (except as noted in paragraph #2 below) must be approved in writing. The purpose of architectural control is to establish and preserve the harmonious design for the community and to protect the value of property in the community.
Procedures for Obtaining Written Approval
• If general maintenance and repair is being done that does not alter the design, color, or materials used in the original structure, then no approval is required. Some examples are:
• Replacement roof of the same type, design, and color as the original.
• Replacement shutters of the same size, design, color as the originals or the same in the solid style.
• Replacement fence sections or gates in the same color, type, design, or materials.
• Repainting with colors as originally constructed.
• Step 1: The homeowner should fill out the Standard Request Form available from the web site or by request of the Board. Only written requests will be considered.
• Step 2: Deliver the filled out Standard Request Form with detailed drawings and specifications of the project to the Board or ARC. A copy of the house location plat should be attached. The plan should be drawn to scale neatly with full dimensions and details clearly labeled. Any request for color changes must be accompanied by a color sample. A time clock of “30-days maximum” to review the proposal begins upon receipt by the Board or ARC of a complete package. Each complete package will be clearly marked with the date it is received by the Board or ARC.
• Step 3: The Board or committee will receive the Request Package from the Owner. If all of the documentation is not received, the Board will return the package to the Owner with a request for the required information. If the package is considered complete each member of the Board or ARC will review the request making a visual inspection of the property.
• Step 4: The Board or ARC, made up of at least three people, will review all requests, and either approve as submitted, suggest changes to the plans to adhere to these Guidelines, or disapprove. The applicant will receive written notification of a final decision.
• If the applicant desires to modify the plans or specifications for architectural changes during construction, a revised application must be submitted to the Board. The Board or ARC will review the revised application and reply.
• Step 5 (a): Approvals are valid for one year from the date the applicant receives the official notification.
• Step 5 (b): If the application is not approved, the Board or ARC will respond in writing to the Owner. The Board or ARC may make suggestions for modifying the application to make it acceptable.
General Considerations
Homeowners may not cause drainage problems to their yards, their neighbor’s yards, and/or to the common grounds. All Southwest Florida Water Management District regulations must be followed.
All homeowners are entitled to use the common grounds. However, no individual homeowner may convert any portion of the common grounds for his exclusive use. Homeowners may not plant gardens, store firewood, or drive vehicles on the common grounds. Everything in Yorkshire that is not a private lot is considered common grounds.
New construction materials may become available that are superior to the products originally used in construction. Homeowners are encouraged to bring these new materials to the attention of the Board or ARC. One example is the new composition material for deck construction.