The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) is established to uphold the original vision and intent of the builder and architect while promoting consistency throughout the community. By enforcing compliance with local building codes and preserving the structural integrity of the buildings, the committee works to protect the value of property investments and maintain the historic significance of the site. Ultimately, these efforts are designed to foster a sense of harmony among all residents.
The scope of the ARC is to review and provide recommendations to the board for approving or rejecting applications for proposed exterior modifications including, but not limited to:
Windows
Doors (color and type)
Electrical (EVCs)
Structures (e.g. raised deck, storage unit/sheds, water features)
Other exterior modifications
The ARC has developed guidelines for the community to retain its charter. These guidelines include:
Anything that alters the exterior in any way.
Any work that alters the integrity of the structure or systems (e.g. moving walls, increasing electrical load).
If you're not sure
Cosmetic interior alterations (e.g. a remodel without structural changes)
It doesn't hurt to ask!
Submit a request
The ARC will receive the request
The ARC will make a recommendation
The ARC has limited authority to approve a request; their role is to make recommendations. However, if the request falls into the category where the ARC has the authority to approve, one of the co-chairs will respond within 48 hours.
The ARC will review the application at their next meeting and if needed, ask the homeowner for additional information. Upon satisfaction, the ARC will provide a recommendation to the board.
The board will review the application at the next board meeting. It is important to set expectations as the board only meets monthly and architectural requests are not deemend an emergency to hold a special meeting.
The homeowner must wait until they receive approval before they can start work with their vendor.
The management company will issue a letter to state the approval as at times the city requires permits.
To streamline processes, the PW HOA board has given the ARC the ability to approve applications with the following criteria:
Windows or glass doors when Palo Alto Glass is the vendor.
AC installation when Fuse is the vendor.
EV charger installation when Willow Glen Electric is the vendor.
All other application types will need to be reviewed by the ARC and submitted to the board.