Plan first, build once

Exterior projects, painting, and architectural approval

Surrey Ridge's Declaration requires prior Architectural Review Board approval for work that alters a property's exterior, including paint-color changes. A complete application protects the owner from buying materials or starting work before the proposed design is reviewed.

Approval comes before work. Declaration Article VI, Section 3 requires prior approval for exterior alterations and prior written approval for buildings, fences, walls, structures, and color changes. An owner may be directed to restore unauthorized work at the owner's expense.

Projects that should be submitted

The Declaration broadly covers improvements, alterations, repairs, paint-color changes, excavation, grading, and other work that changes the exterior condition of the property. It specifically addresses structures, fences, walls, pools, screened enclosures, exterior colors and finishes, plot plans, drives, parking areas, and construction schedules.

If it changes how the home or lot looks from outside, changes drainage or grade, adds a structure, or replaces an approved material with a visibly different one, ask before ordering or starting. A like-for-like maintenance project may still need confirmation if its exterior appearance or site condition changes.

Prepare a complete request

Include what applies to the project

A plain-language description of the work and the reason for it.
Current photographs and a drawing or marked photograph showing the proposed location.
Dimensions, setbacks, height, materials, manufacturer information, and finish.
Paint brand, color name and code, sheen, trim color, and a representative sample.
A survey or plot plan for fences, additions, paving, structures, or work near boundaries and easements.
Contractor information, anticipated schedule, and permit information when applicable.
Any drainage, lighting, noise, access, or neighboring-property effect that the review should consider.

For exterior painting

Do not rely on a screen image or informal color description. Identify the exact manufacturer and color code, the surfaces receiving each color, the sheen, and whether trim, doors, shutters, garage doors, or masonry will change. Note repairs, cleaning, patching, sealing, and preparation needed before coating. The approval addresses the proposed appearance; it is not a warranty of the product or contractor's work.

What happens after submission

Declaration Article VI, Section 5 states that if the ARB does not approve, modify, or disapprove a written application within 30 days after written plans and specifications are submitted in accordance with adopted procedures, approval is deemed granted. An adverse decision may be appealed to the Board, which may reverse or modify it by a two-thirds vote of the directors.

Preserve the written record. Because completeness and the submission date can matter, keep the application, attachments, delivery confirmation, questions, revisions, and final written decision. Obtaining written confirmation before construction reduces avoidable disputes.

Association approval and permits are separate

Architectural approval does not replace an Orange County permit, contractor license, utility clearance, or code requirement. County guidance states that construction, alteration, repair, and changes to building systems commonly require permits. Confirm permit needs through Orange County Fast Track before work begins.

During and after the work

Keep the approved plans and any permit available.
Build only the approved scope; submit material design changes before installing them.
Protect sidewalks, streets, drainage, neighboring property, and common areas.
Control debris, overspray, noise, and work hours.
Retain final inspections, warranties, paid invoices, color records, and completion photographs.

Governing and official sources

This guide explains the member process. Project design, code compliance, permitting, product suitability, and contractor performance remain the owner's responsibility.