How to get HOA approval for permanent lights
A simple step-by-step guide for homeowners.
A lot of neighborhoods have HOA rules about exterior changes. Permanent lights are usually easy to explain because the track is hidden during the day, but every HOA is different, so it pays to do this the right way. Here is how.
The Shine HOA Approval Guide
An 11-page packet made for HOA boards and review committees. It shows what the lights look like by day and by night, the full specs, how they are installed, and model rules your board can adopt. Download it and attach it to your HOA request.
Step by step
- Read your HOA rulesLook in your CC&Rs and design guidelines for anything about exterior lighting, holiday lighting, colors or hours. Many HOAs have an architectural review committee that approves exterior changes.
- Download our HOA guideThe Shine HOA Approval Guide is made for HOA boards. It has day and night photos, full specs, how the lights mount and model rules. We can also give you the track color and a simple layout for your house.
- Fill out the request formMost HOAs have an architectural request form. Describe the lights, where they go, how they mount and how they are controlled. Attach the HOA guide and anything else we gave you.
- Answer the usual questions up frontSee the list below. Covering these in your request can save a round of back and forth.
- Wait for approval, then scheduleResponse times vary by HOA, so ask how long it usually takes. Once you are approved, we get you on the install calendar.
Questions HOA boards often ask
- Will it be visible during the day? The track sits under the roof edge and is color matched to your trim.
- How bright is it? The lights are dimmable, so you choose the brightness.
- Will it be on all night? You set schedules in the app, so lights can turn off at a set time every night.
- What about colors? You can keep it to warm white most of the year and save colors for holidays if your HOA asks for that.
- Are there wires or cords showing? No. Wiring runs through the soffit, not along the gutters or down the wall.
What if my HOA says no?
Ask what change would get it approved. Sometimes it is a question of color, hours or which sides of the house are lit. We can adjust the layout and help you resubmit.
Ready to send your request? Attach our HOA guide.
Download the guide (PDF)Quick answers
Do I need HOA approval for permanent lights?
Many HOAs require approval for exterior changes, including lighting. Check your CC&Rs and design guidelines, and ask whether your architectural review committee needs a request form.
What should I send my HOA for permanent lighting approval?
A short description of the lights, where they mount, how they are controlled, the track color and photos of similar homes. Shine gives homeowners a free HOA Approval Guide made for boards, plus a layout for your home.
Can an HOA limit permanent light colors and hours?
Yes, and the lights make it easy to follow. The app can keep warm white as the everyday setting, run holiday colors only on set dates and turn the lights off at a set time each night.
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