Architectural Control Guidelines – Revised Spring 2010
Written for Westbury homeowners by Westbury homeowners

If you have a question not answered in the guidelines, feel free to contact one of the ARC members.

WHY DO WE HAVE ARCHITECTURAL GUIDELINES?
Dwellings that are well proportioned, composed for maximum effect and set properly in a well-planned development are an asset to the development community; an asset whose value is greater than it would be if it stood alone.

The Declaration of Protective Covenants for the Westbury Community Association, Inc. is agreed upon at time of closing in accordance with Georgia state law by all homeowners, as a condition to the closing of their home in the Westbury Community Association.  The covenants establish general criteria for architectural changes and property maintenance through the Architectural Guidelines. These guidelines are designed to interpret those criteria and, generally, to prevent excesses and abuses while allowing individuals flexibility in property use and keeping our community an attractive and desirable place which will conform to the covenants.


WHAT IS THE ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE?
The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) seeks to ensure that maximum property values are maintained throughout the community while keeping the best interests of all homeowners in mind. Increased values, community pride, personal satisfaction are all driving influences behind the decision to establish an ARC for a subdivision.

One of the most effective methods of assuring the protection of the community, environment and individual property values is through the establishment of high standards of design review. In order to accomplish this objective, the ARC reviews applications and design documents for all construction and exterior changes. Each application is reviewed on its own merit with reasonable flexibility for design function and creativity. In compliance with article 6.7 the Declarant established the ARC, which has jurisdiction over architectural control with the community.  The ARC also consults with the Board on situations specifically not covered in the guidelines or the community covenants.

The ARC has an open door policy for homeowners who would like to participate.  The ARC shall include a minimum of three members and a maximum of nine members. Term of service will be for two years.

Each member of the ARC shall have an equal vote. The majority of all members of the ARC shall constitute a decision for approval or denial of an application.

ARC RESPONSIBILITIES:

 

1. To establish architectural motifs and exterior design themes for all residential properties.
2. To establish design standards and guidelines for the protection of enduring property values and provide the best possible safeguards for continuing appreciation.

 

3. To review all applications for compliance with design criteria and with the declaration of covenants.

 

4. To assure compatible architectural designs and harmonious relationships with neighboring properties and land uses.

 

5. To require high standards of design and quality construction.

 

6. To establish fees for the review of applications that require professional review.

 

7. To amend design criteria as may be required, from time to time.

 

8. To monitor violations of design criteria and take appropriate action to correct any violation.

 

9. To contact applicants whose plans and specifications have been disapproved and to provide reasonable assistance and recommendations for adjustments to bring applications into compliance with criteria and covenants.

 

10. To maintain copies of applications, design documents and related records.

 

11. To inform members regarding activities of the ARC and changes in criteria as they may occur.

 

HOW DOES THE ARCHITECTURE REVIEW PROCESS WORK?

A resident wishing to make an exterior alteration must complete the Architectural Review Application Form and submit to the ARC for review. The ARC shall meet, as necessary, to review applications received within 30 days of receipt. If a longer period is needed, the applicant will be informed within 15 days of submission. After completion of any construction, any modifications, alterations, or additions will be reviewed and acted upon by the ARC.

If an application has been denied, or if the approval is subject to conditions, which the submitting party disagrees with, the resident may request a hearing before the full ARC. A resident may also file an appeal in writing to the Board of Directors who shall have the final authority under section 7.1 of the covenants.

For further details on the above process, please refer to the Architectural Review Application Form.


WHAT IF I DON’T WAIT FOR APPROVAL?
Proceeding with an improvement or alteration prior to obtaining written approval is a violation of the covenants and is done at your own risk. You could then face the cost of removing or modifying the alteration to comply with the ARC’s decision. If no action is taken to resolve the violation, the ARC will take additional actions, as specified in the Westbury Covenants. A covenant violation could ultimately impair your ability to sell your property.  Remember, No approval is required to repaint the exterior of a structure in accordance with the originally approved color scheme or to rebuild in accordance with originally approved plans and specifications.

In considering applications, the ARC will not be influenced for or against the application if work is commenced prior to approval. Therefore, residents are strongly urged not to undertake construction in advance.


WHAT IF I HAVE A COMPLAINT REGARDING ANOTHER LOT ?
Complaints, which remain anonymous, should be brought to the attention of the ARC who will investigate and determine if a violation exists. The violating property owner will be notified and asked to correct the violation either by removal, by submission of an acceptable application, or by repair in the case of a maintenance problem. Most problems are resolved at this stage; however, if no action is taken to resolve the violation, the ARC will take additional actions, as specified in the Westbury Covenants.

If you decide to file a formal complaint, please do so in writing and mail to our PO Box. 

 

 

KEY DESIGN GUIDELINES
In order to make it easier for residents to determine what improvements or modifications are likely to be accepted by the ARC, the following key design guidelines have been established by the ARC and the Board of Directors.  Please refer to them as you decide what improvements you’d like to make to the exterior of your home and submit an application to the ARC.  In accordance with the association covenants, “any homeowner may remodel, paint, or redecorate the interior of structures on the Lot without approval”.  Section references to the association covenants are provided below where applicable.