Architectural Review Committee
What is the Architectural Review Committee (ARC)?
The Architectural Review Committee is charged with the responsibility of maintaining the architectural integrity and aesthetic value of the Villas at Cross Creek neighborhood, as defined in our Covenants. Homeowners desiring to make any exterior modification, improvement or addition to their home or any other structure or improvement on your lot, or to add significantly to, or remove from the permanent landscape must obtain approval for the change. The Architectural Review Committee consists of members who review and evaluate each application.
Why do we have architectural standards?
Most likely, your largest investment is your home. When making exterior improvements, changes that are acceptable to one person may not be in the best interest of the community. Architectural standards help guarantee our community will continue to look good for many years to come, thus protecting your investment.
Why must I have my exterior projects approved?
When purchasing your home, you signed a document agreeing to abide by the Villas at Cross Creek HOA covenants and by-laws. The covenants require that before any changes are made to the exterior of the home or landscaping, written approval must be given by the ARC. This is not meant to suppress creativity or individual taste, but to ensure a harmonious transition between existing and new construction, landscaping and all other exterior changes as outlined in our covenants. Having your projects approved beforehand will eliminate issues such as conflicts with neighbors, changes that could negatively affect home prices in our community and even monetary fines.
How do I apply for approval for a project?
Step 1: Review the Architectural Guidelines as they pertain to the intended project.
Step 2: Complete the Residential Improvement Request and provide detailed drawings or photos of the proposed project. Include the type of materials to be used and sample colors if applicable. A copy of most recent certified lot survey showing location of proposed improvement/project. All information will need to be emailed to Elim Services.
If submitting a form for a fence, please note that the fence must be unfinished or stained wood, or white or tan vinyl and must confirm to the covenant guidelines regarding fences on Article 5, section 3 and Article 6, section 20.
If repainting, you must supply exact color samples. Websites and names/numbers will not be accepted. You can scan those colors via a color pdf if you prefer.
If installing hardy panel, brick, stucco or new roof, submit a color sample of all colors including colors of roof and any masonry on your home.
If having an in-ground pool installed, you must indicate what type of access you plan to use for trucks, equipment, etc. in order to reach your backyard. No above-ground pools are permitted in the neighborhood.
Any damage to sidewalks, curbs, roads, grasses, and common grounds of Villas at Cross Creek Owners Association will have to be restored to its current condition and will be the responsibility of the homeowner making this request.
Step 3: The ARC will review the Application to ensure that it is complete. If further information is needed, the homeowner will be notified of the necessary documents to complete the application. The process of review does not officially begin until the application process is complete.
NOTE: THIS APPROVAL IS FOR ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW PURPOSES ONLY. IT DOES NOT OVERRULE ANY LOCAL, STATE, OR FEDERAL GUILDELINES OR PERMITS REQUIRED FOR THE DESIRED CONSTRUCTION. It is the responsibility of the Homeowner/Contractor to secure all necessary permits from the City of Jacksonville and to comply with the Local Building Codes for setbacks from property lines, retention ponds, existing structures, easements, and safety requirements.. Only the homeowner of record may request architectural approval. Approved projects must be substantially completed within 6 MONTHS or you must resubmit once commenced. The approved construction must proceed diligently.
Step 4: If you have not received a decision within 30 days, your request should be considered to be denied. If you wish to appeal the results of the ARC decision, please contact Elim Services within 30 days from the date of the decision at (904) 241-8886.