HRCA Architectural Approval Process in Highlands Ranch

Thinking about repainting, adding a deck, or installing solar at your Highlands Ranch home? If so, you will likely need approval from the Highlands Ranch Community Association before work begins. Getting this right protects your investment and avoids delays or fines. In this guide, you will learn what HRCA approves, how the process works, how Douglas County permits fit in, and exactly what to prepare for a smooth sign-off. Let’s dive in.

What HRCA approves and why it matters

HRCA enforces community covenants through the Residential Improvement Guidelines. If your project changes your home’s exterior appearance or adds site features, you probably need approval. The covenants and guidelines are your primary reference point for what is allowed and how to request it. Review the overview page for covenants and guidelines on the HRCA site to understand the scope of review and enforcement policies. You can also consult the full Residential Improvement Guidelines for project-by-project rules.

• Common projects that need HRCA approval include exterior painting, reroofing, window and garage door replacements, fences and gates, decks and patio covers, pergolas, hardscape and driveways, pools and spas, satellite dishes, solar panels, exterior EV chargers, accessory structures, and many landscape conversions. Check the guidelines to confirm your project’s requirements.
  • See: HRCA Covenants & Improvements overview
  • See: Residential Improvement Guidelines

Some Highlands Ranch neighborhoods also have sub-association rules that add requirements. After HRCA review, your sub-association may still need to sign off. The HRCA Home Improvement Request process page explains this layering and how to proceed.

HRCA vs. Douglas County: two tracks

HRCA approval is different from a county building permit. You must meet both when they apply. HRCA handles covenant and design review. Douglas County handles building permits, structural and electrical reviews, and inspections. Start by confirming both sets of requirements so your schedule, contracts, and materials align.

• Typical county-permitted work includes decks, roofs, structural additions, pools, photovoltaic systems, and most electrical or mechanical changes. Review the county permit portal for checklists and submittal steps.
  • See: Douglas County Building Division permits
• Solar projects require HRCA approval plus county PV permits and utility coordination. Expect equipment specs, electrical calculations, and potential engineering.
  • See: Douglas County photovoltaic permits

The HRCA approval process

Pick the right form and fee

Submit your Home Improvement Request online and choose the form that matches your project. Most submittals include a fee. HRCA notes fees typically range from about 5 to 100 dollars depending on the form and complexity. Confirm the exact fee on the correct form before you submit.

• Start here: Home Improvement Request Forms

Timelines and ARC meetings

HRCA has up to 30 days to issue a decision, so submit early. The Architectural Review Committee meets regularly, and complex applications must be in by posted deadlines. You can check meeting dates and consider a brief in-person appointment if needed.

• Process details: Home Improvement Request process
• Meeting calendar: Architectural Review Committee schedule

Site visits and final review

An ARC member may schedule a site visit before your review meeting. After work is completed, notify HRCA to arrange a final review. If you do not request final review, an ARC member may follow up later to close out the approval.

• Process details: Home Improvement Request process

Approval duration

Some approvals have explicit time limits. For example, ColoradoScape landscaping approvals are valid for one year. Check the relevant guideline section for your project’s time window.

• See: ColoradoScape program

What to prepare: a homeowner checklist

Getting approval often comes down to a complete submittal. Gather these items before you apply:

• Confirm whether your home is in a sub-association and review those rules.
• Select the correct HRCA form and review its instructions.
• Provide a site plan or plat showing property lines and where the work will go.
• Include photos of existing conditions and any proposed elevations.
• Attach product specifications for materials, equipment, and finishes.
• Provide color details or paint chips. HRCA requires a submission even if repainting the same colors.
• For structural or electrical projects, include plans and any required engineering. County PV submittals, for example, call for technical documentation.
• Pay the HRCA fee and upload all files. If files are too large, HRCA allows emailed materials with your address and project in the subject line.
  • Forms and instructions: HRCA Request Forms
  • PV requirements: Douglas County photovoltaic permits

Planning your timeline

• HRCA decision window: allow up to 30 days, and align with ARC meeting dates for complex projects.
• County permits and inspections: add plan review and inspection time based on permit type.
• Practical planning: for modest projects, plan 4 to 8 weeks from submission to completion. For larger structural, solar, or addition projects, plan for multiple months that include HRCA review, county permits, and contractor scheduling.

Common projects: quick guide

Exterior painting

• HRCA: Submission required even if using the same colors.
• County: Permit typically not required.
  • Reference: HRCA Covenants & Improvements overview

Roofing

• HRCA: Review required for materials and color.
• County: Roofing permits and inspections may apply; confirm with the county.
  • Forms: HRCA Request Forms

Windows, doors, and garage doors

• HRCA: Approval required for replacements or changes.
• County: Permits may be required if structural or safety elements are involved.

Fences and gates

• HRCA: Submission required. Fence standards are outlined in the guidelines.
• County: Rules vary; verify in your jurisdiction.
  • Forms: HRCA Request Forms

Decks, patio covers, and additions

• HRCA: Approval required.
• County: Building permits and inspections are usually required.
  • Process overview: HRCA Request process

Solar (PV)

• HRCA: Submission and placement review required.
• County: PV permit, engineering, and utility coordination are often required.
  • County checklist: Photovoltaic permits

EV chargers outside the garage

• HRCA: Submission required for exterior equipment.
• County: Electrical permit may be required depending on scope.
  • Forms: HRCA Request Forms

Accessory structures

• HRCA: Approval required for sheds, ADUs, and many play structures.
• County: Permit requirements depend on size and structure.
  • Guidelines: Residential Improvement Guidelines

Avoiding violations and fines

HRCA uses a formal enforcement process that includes investigation, photo documentation, notices, cure periods, and fines. If you receive a notice, respond quickly and document your cure. HRCA also notes that Colorado law limits HOA authority in public rights-of-way, which helps define the boundary between HOA rules and public jurisdiction.

• Review enforcement and policies: HRCA Covenants & Improvements overview

Where to start: helpful contacts

• HRCA Community Improvement Services
  • Phone: 303-471-8821
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Office: Recreation Center at Eastridge, 9568 University Blvd., Highlands Ranch
  • Process and forms: HRCA Home Improvement Request process and Request Forms
• Douglas County Building Division
  • Permit portal and contact details: Douglas County permits
  • PV submittal checklist: Photovoltaic permits

Getting approvals right can help you keep your project on schedule and protect your resale. If you are planning updates before listing or right after closing, reach out for guidance on sequencing work, budgeting, and marketing what buyers value. When you want smart strategy and clear next steps, connect with Ryan Haarer.

FAQs

Do I need HRCA approval to repaint the same color in Highlands Ranch?

• Yes, HRCA requires a submission for exterior painting even if colors remain the same; confirm requirements on the Covenants & Improvements overview.

How long does HRCA approval take and when does ARC meet?

• HRCA has up to 30 days to decide, and the ARC meets regularly with posted deadlines; check the process page and the ARC calendar.

What is the difference between HRCA approval and a Douglas County permit?

• HRCA is covenant and design review, while Douglas County issues building permits and performs inspections; many projects require both, so review the HRCA process and county permits.

What happens if I start exterior work without HRCA approval?

• HRCA may initiate a formal violations process with notices, cure periods, and fines; see enforcement details on the Covenants & Improvements overview.

For solar panels in Highlands Ranch, who must sign off?

• You need HRCA approval and Douglas County PV permits, plus any required utility interconnection paperwork; review the HRCA forms and PV checklist.

Are HRCA approvals time-limited?

• Some are; for example, ColoradoScape approvals are valid for one year, so confirm time limits in the relevant section of the ColoradoScape page.

Do sub-associations add rules I must follow?

• Yes, some neighborhoods have additional architectural requirements; the HRCA process page notes that sub-association review may apply after HRCA approval.