New Village Code Streamlines Adding Outdoor Structures

The village recently made changes to sections of Village Code pertaining to the Architectural Review Committee (ARC) that are intended to simplify and streamline this entire process. Any village resident in the past who installed a fence, constructed a shed or other accessory structure, or replaced windows on their home knows how the process used to work. 

The following is a brief overview of changes that you should be aware of as you plan your next project.

• ARC approval is no longer necessary for any window replacement project that does not affect the size of the window opening.
• Demolition or razing projects will not require ARC approval.
• New accessory structures shall substantially match the main structure on the property in architectural and color, but it does not need to exactly match the main structure in terms of finish materials and grade of finish to substantially match.  For example, if your house is primarily made of brick and you wish to construct a shed, your shed doesn’t need to be constructed of brick.
• Play equipment like  play structures and swing sets larger than 10 foot by 10 foot by 15 foot in dimension requires ARC approval; play equipment smaller than that does not require ARC approval.
• All new fences and fence replacement projects that replace 50 percent or more of an existing fence will require 4 foot footings.

The four-foot footing requirement for new fences and certain fence replacement projects is intended to help prevent property maintenance issues with fences and to ensure the structural integrity of the fence. Fences constructed in the past without these footings were prone to damage and deterioration, which frequently resulted in fences falling over or being knocked down. Residents who wish to maintain their fences by replacing boards or sections that account for less than 50 percent of the fence can continue to do so without ARC approval.

Any village resident who is unsure of whether or not their project needs ARC approval is encourage to Permits and Applications on the village website or call Village Hall at 414-351-8811.