Architectural review is a community approval process. Its scope, submission materials, meetings, fees, and decision timing come from the current documents for the specific association or club.
It is separate from government building permits, Duke Energy shoreline approvals, and any other required permits. A project may need more than one approval path.
A Practical Submission Sequence
Use the current community documents before committing to scope or timing.
1. Identify the Governing Documents
Obtain the current covenants, architectural guidelines, application forms, fee schedule, and contact information for the specific community. Confirm whether the project is within ARB scope.
2. Assemble the Required Package
Ask what plans, site information, materials, colors, contractor details, and approvals the community requires. Submit the package in the requested format and retain written confirmation of receipt.
3. Resolve Conditions Before Work
Read the written decision and any conditions carefully. Community approval does not authorize construction, shoreline work, or utilities; obtain each separate approval required by the responsible authority.
Approvals That Are Not Interchangeable
Keep community standards, building permits, and waterfront approvals separate.
Community Architecture Review
Community review addresses the association or club standards for the property. The Cliffs states that its Preferred Builders work with its Architectural Review Board for compliance, but current requirements still come from the applicable community documents.
Building and Trade Permits
Local building, electrical, plumbing, septic, and other permits are issued or administered by the relevant public authorities. Confirm jurisdiction and requirements for the exact address.
Dock and Shoreline Work
Dock, shoreline, and lake-related work follows separate Duke Energy, SCDES, and other applicable requirements. Do not infer waterfront approval from an ARB decision. Dock and shoreline guide →