Lofton Woods Community Association

Architectural Control

Lofton Woods Community Association is governed by established Restrictive Covenants to help ensure that our neighborhood remains a place that retains property values and attracts new homeowners. The Lofton Woods Architectural Control Committee (ACC) is defined in Section 5 of the Lofton Woods Covenants and appointed by the Lofton Woods Board of Directors to approve any architectural changes made in the neighborhood. These architectural changes may include, but are not limited to: room additions, decks, sunrooms, porches, fences, driveway and sidewalk expansions, pools, storage sheds, etc. All project approval requests must be submitted in writing. Applications for ACC approval will not be accepted unless the property owner is current with all dues and charges.

As you plan your project, please read the Lofton Woods Covenants to make sure that it is not in violation of the covenants. Section 5 covers architectural control, and Section 6 covers general construction. If your project includes a fence or storage shed, you should also check the Covenants Amendments for details specific to those structures. Any project that is in violation of the covenants will automatically be rejected. You have the right to appeal any rejected project to the full Lofton Woods Board of Directors.

A completed architectural control request form must to be submitted to the ACC at least 30 days before you plan to start construction. Submission of this form does not relieve you of your responsibility to obtain any permits that may be required by the City of Fort Wayne. Obtaining permits from the City does not relieve you of your responsibility to submit this form, nor does it ensure that approval will be granted by the ACC. The applicant is responsible for providing a complete description of all work to be performed on the property and to the exterior of the dwelling. The ACC reserves the right to reject a request for approval if the description of the work is deemed incomplete or inadequate.

Approval of a project does not constitute a waiver of the right of the Lofton Woods Board, or any member homeowner, to enforce the covenants in the future as provided in Section 7.1. The Lofton Woods Board of Directors reserves the authority to adopt rules and regulations for the enforcement of the ACC guidelines and procedures. Any fines and/or penalties will be assessed pursuant to rules established by the Board of Directors.

By submitting a request for approval, the property owner authorizes members of the Board and/or the ACC to inspect the exterior of the dwelling for the purpose of reviewing the application or determining compliance with these regulations.

The ACC evaluates all requests based on the individual merits of each application. The characteristics of the project, residence and the individual site are considered when evaluating the design proposal. This is done because what may be an acceptable design of an exterior in one instance may not be for another. Due to the proximity to each other and other factors, some designs may impact neighbors in a negative manner. The following criteria represent in more specific terms the general standards that will be used in reviewing and evaluating such application and design.

Design Compatibility

The proposed improvement must be compatible and harmonious with the architectural characteristics of the applicant’s house, adjacent houses, and the overall neighborhood setting. Compatibility is defined as similarity in architectural style, quality of workmanship, similar use of materials, color and construction details.

Location and Impact on Neighbors

The proposed alteration should reflect favorably upon the landscape, existing structure, and harmony of the neighborhood. When a proposed alteration has possible impact on adjacent properties, it is suggested that the applicant discuss the proposal with neighbors prior to making an application to the ACC. It may be appropriate in some cases to submit neighbor comments along with the ACC application.

Workmanship

The quality of work should be equal to or better than that of the current community aesthetic. Poor practices, besides causing the owner problems, can be visually objectionable to others. Poor workmanship can also create safety hazards.

Timing

Approval of an Architectural Control Request is valid for six months from the date of approval. If construction and/or installation has not begun within this six-month period the property owner must resubmit the request.

Applicant Responsibilities

The property owner is responsible for the accurate determination of property and easement lines.

The property owner is responsible for changes to existing drainage conditions which may adversely affect adjoining and adjacent properties.

The property owner is responsible for removal of all construction debris and restoration of premises upon completion of work. No material used for building purposes shall be stored on any Lot longer than a reasonable time for construction to be completed.

The property owner is responsible for all damage caused by homeowner/resident or the contractor while performing work on said property. The homeowner shall also be responsible for cleaning up all construction debris as work progresses.

Please be courteous in your dealings with the ACC. The ACC is comprised of your neighbors who are volunteering their time on behalf of our community.