Cincinnati HOA architectural review follows each community declaration under ORC 5311 and 5312. Committees may approve or deny exterior changes. Solar panels cannot be prohibited under 2022 S.B. 61.
Most planned communities and condominium associations in Cincinnati establish architectural review committees or design review boards through their recorded declarations and bylaws. Under ORC 5312, the declaration may contain restrictions on the use, occupancy, and alteration of units and common areas, and the owners association has authority to enforce these restrictions. Typical architectural review provisions require owners to submit written applications before making exterior changes including paint colors, roofing materials, fencing, decks, patios, landscaping, satellite dishes, solar panels, and additions. The committee reviews submissions against published design guidelines or the standards in the declaration. Approval or denial must be communicated in writing within a reasonable time, typically 30 to 60 days as specified in the governing documents. Under the 2022 S.B. 61 amendments to ORC 5311 and 5312, associations cannot prohibit the installation of solar panels and solar energy collection devices, though they may adopt reasonable aesthetic standards for placement and appearance. The committee cannot apply standards inconsistently or make decisions based on personal preference that deviates from the written guidelines. Owners who disagree with a denial may appeal to the full board of directors or seek dispute resolution. Unapproved modifications may result in fines, mandatory removal, or lien filing.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Cincinnati's architectural review rules stack up against other locations.
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