Dallas, TX HOA Rules: Architectural Review (2026)
Key Facts
- Auto-Approval
- If no response within 60 days (Section 209.00505)
- Written Guidelines
- Must be documented and applied consistently
- Protected Items
- Flags, religious door items cannot be prohibited
- Appeal Process
- ADR available under Section 209.0071
Summary
HOAs in Dallas may enforce architectural standards through their declarations and CC&Rs, governed by the Texas Property Code. Under Section 209.00505, if a property owner's application for architectural review is not denied within 60 days, it is automatically approved. Associations must follow documented guidelines and apply them consistently. The City of Dallas does not regulate HOA architectural committees but enforces its own building and zoning codes separately.
Sec. 209.00505. ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW AUTHORITY. (d) A decision by the architectural review authority denying an application or request by an owner for the construction of improvements in the subdivision may be appealed to the board. A written notice of the denial must be provided to the owner by certified mail, hand delivery, or electronic delivery. The notice must: (1) describe the basis for the denial in reasonable detail and changes, if any, to the application or improvements required as a condition to approval; and (2) inform the owner that the owner may request a hearing under Subsection (e) on or before the 30th day after the date the notice was mailed to the owner.
Full Breakdown
Most Dallas HOAs include an Architectural Control Committee (ACC) or Architectural Review Board (ARB) established through the association's declaration of covenants (CC&Rs). These committees review exterior modifications including paint colors, roofing materials, fencing, landscaping changes, and additions. Texas Property Code Section 209.00505 provides an important safeguard: if an HOA does not issue a decision on an architectural application within 60 days of receiving a completed application, the request is deemed approved by operation of law. Associations must maintain written architectural guidelines and apply standards consistently across all owners to avoid selective enforcement claims. Under Section 202.004, property owners' associations may not include or enforce provisions that prohibit displaying religious items on entry doors or door frames, the Texas flag, the U.S. flag, or a military branch flag. Architectural decisions can be appealed through the association's internal appeals process and, if unresolved, through the alternative dispute resolution process under Section 209.0071.
Violations & Fines
If an HOA denies an architectural request, it must provide written notice stating the specific provisions violated and the basis for the decision. If the HOA fails to respond within 60 days, the application is automatically approved. Homeowners who believe an architectural decision was arbitrary or inconsistent may pursue alternative dispute resolution under Texas Property Code Section 209.0071.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my Dallas HOA doesn't respond to my architectural request?
Can my Dallas HOA ban flagpoles or flags?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas
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Architectural Review in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle architectural review.