Architecture Control Commitee (ACC)
The Architectural Control Committee (ACC) reviews and approves homeowner construction applications to ensure proposed work complies with, and is consistent with, the Covenants and Restrictions (C&R) and Architectural Design Guidelines (ADGs). The ACC’s role is to protect the rights of all Placitas Homesteads residents and help preserve the community’s high-quality properties, property values, neighborhood integrity, and natural beauty. Homeowners shall NOT begin any construction, installation, improvement, or related project unless and until the plans and specifications have been formally approved in writing by the ACC.
ACC Governing Documents: Read before submitting any Design Approval Request Forms.
- Placitas Homesteads Covenants and Restrictions (C&Rs). Take particular note of sections 3-26.
- The ADGs was written as an interpretation of the C&R and describes what the ACC requires for project approval. Please refer to the ADGs and C&R before starting construction of any new building (Principal Residence, outbuilding, etc.), exterior improvement (remodel, addition, etc.), or exterior project (solar, gazebo, pergola, walls and fence, etc.).
ACC Design Approval Request Forms:
- New construction of the primary residence (single-family dwelling) must precede the construction of any permanent outbuildings or other structures. All buildings are to be finished as to exterior within one (1) year from the start of construction. If an owner needs more time, s/he must request an extension from the ACC.
- Outbuildings are detached structures located on the same property as the principal residence, including but not limited to guest houses, sheds, well houses, barns, and garages. Outbuildings, additions, and remodels must conform to the principal residence in style, design, exterior finish, and color. All buildings are to be finished as to exterior within six (6) months from the start of construction.
- Projects may include, but are not limited to, gazebos, pergolas, courtyard or garden walls, retaining walls, fences, gates, screening structures, patios and exterior lighting.
NOTE: If the ACC determines that the project qualifies as maintenance—such as fence repair or replacement using approved materials, a stucco color change, or replacement of an existing structure such as windows or gates—the deposit and $25.00 filing fee will be refunded after the completed project passes inspection. The project must be completed within six (6) months from the start of construction.
- Used for installation of roof-mounted and/or ground-mounted solar systems. The project must be completed within six (6) months from the start of construction.
Information and Helpful Guides and Forms:
- Provides step-by-step guidance on the written application requirements and the ACC review and approval process.
- Lists the Association’s fee and fine schedules, including annual assessments, penalty and lien costs, and ACC variance, appeal, deposit, and fee amounts.
- Lot owners seeking design approval for a project may request a variance from covenant requirements by submitting a completed ACC Variance Form to the ACC. The ACC promotes effective design that preserves property values, enhances safety and appearance, and minimizes the visibility of undesirable uses or activities. Variances will not be granted for minimum lot size requirements. For more information, including key factors the ACC considers during review and approval, please read the “ACC Review and Approval Process.”
- Use this form to submit a formal written complaint regarding another homeowner’s alleged violation of the C&R. The ACC must respond to all formal written complaints within 30 days, as provided in C&R 30b.
Adopted ‘Resolutions of Interpretations’ of the Governing Documents of Placitas Homesteads Home and Property Owners Association. (ARI)
- When the Placitas Homesteads Home and Property Owners Association (PHH&POA or the Association) applies its governing documents, including the Covenants and Restrictions (C&R), the Board of Directors (Board or BOD) and/or the Architectural Control Committee (ACC) may interpret specific language to ensure consistent application of those documents.