Which Should Come First? HOA or City Approval

A common question when preparing for a home remodel is: Which should come first – approval from the HOA or approval from the city building department? Following the correct steps from the beginning can help homeowners avoid unnecessary delays, confusion, and wasted effort.

If you live in a community governed by an HOA, you’re likely familiar with how strict the rules and standards can be. What some homeowners may not realize is that even if a project is approved by the city, the HOA still has the authority to deny it. This is because the city’s primary concern is whether the project complies with the local and state building codes, they are generally indifferent to the aesthetic appearance of the project. The HOA, on the other hand, typically reviews the design elements like materials, finishes, and how the project aligns with the community’s overall aesthetic standards and visual appeal. If the HOA feels the project does not align with the community’s standards, it can be denied.

The Answer

In most cases, it’s best to seek HOA approval before submitting plans to the city. If your HOA requires changes to the design, you’ll want to address those before going through the city’s permitting process to avoid having to revise and resubmit plans.

Two Items to Take Note Of

Interior Projects

• Depending on the HOA, they typically aren’t concerned with the interior appearance of your home. However, they will want to review your plans, primarily to check for any major changes to structural elements, mechanical systems, electrical systems, plumbing systems, or fire sprinkler systems.

Exterior Projects

• Any exterior changes must be approved by the HOA. If it’s visible from the outside, it will require approval. This includes – but is not limited to – things like paint, roofing, stucco, fences, pergolas, decks, pools, landscaping, windows, doors, concrete, pavers, and more.