HOAs: The Other Approval You Need
LADBS permits are one thing. But if you live in an HOA community — and roughly 25% of LA homeowners do — you need a second approval before you can build. HOA architectural review boards can be more restrictive than city building departments, and their requirements are often poorly documented.
What HOAs Typically Review
- Pool placement relative to property lines and structures
- Pergola/patio cover height, material, and color
- Hardscape materials and colors (must match community aesthetic)
- Landscape plant selection (some HOAs have approved plant lists)
- Fence and wall heights and materials
- Lighting placement and intensity (no light pollution to neighbors)
- Construction timeline, hours, and access routes
How to Get Approved the First Time
- Read CC&Rs before designing: Know the restrictions upfront. Height limits, setbacks, material requirements, and color palettes are all in your CC&Rs. We review these as part of our design process.
- Submit professional 3D renders: HOA boards respond to visuals. Our 3D renders show exactly what the finished project looks like from every angle, including neighbor perspectives.
- Include a construction management plan: Show the board when work happens, where materials are stored, how noise is managed, and cleanup protocols. This addresses their biggest concern: disruption.
- Present material samples: Bring physical samples of pavers, pergola colors, and stone selections. Let board members touch and see the actual materials.
- Attend the board meeting in person: Have your contractor present the project professionally. We attend HOA meetings for our clients regularly — it makes a huge difference.
Common HOA Rejection Reasons (And How to Avoid Them)
- Height violations: Pergolas exceeding HOA height limits. Solution: Check limits before design.
- Color mismatch: Pergola or hardscape colors that don't match community palette. Solution: Submit color samples early.
- Setback violations: Pool or structures too close to property lines. Solution: Survey your lot and check CC&Rs.
- Drainage concerns: Board worried about water runoff to neighbors. Solution: Include drainage plan.
- Noise during construction: Complaints about work hours. Solution: Propose restricted hours proactively.
Timeline for HOA Approval
- Simple projects (landscape, pavers): 2-4 weeks
- Medium projects (pergola, patio cover): 4-6 weeks
- Complex projects (pool + full remodel): 6-12 weeks
- Appealing a rejection: 4-8 additional weeks
💡 Pro Tip
Start HOA and LADBS approvals simultaneously. They're independent processes, and running them in parallel can save 4-8 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA deny a pool?
Generally, HOAs can't prohibit pools entirely (per California Civil Code 4750.10), but they can regulate size, placement, and aesthetics. If your HOA denies a pool, request the specific CC&R section they're citing.
What if my HOA is unresponsive?
California law (Davis-Stirling Act) requires HOAs to respond to architectural applications within 60 days. If they don't respond, the application is deemed approved. Document everything in writing.
Do all HOA communities require architectural review?
Most do, but the level of review varies. Some require full architectural committee approval; others just need a notification letter. Check your CC&Rs or call your management company.
