Herndon, VA HOA Rules: Architectural Review (2026)
Key Facts
- Fact
- ARC approval required for most exterior changes
- Fact
- Decisions must be reasonable and consistent (POAA)
- Fact
- Solar installations protected under VA Code 67-701
- Fact
- US and state flag display protected under POAA
- Fact
- Town building permits are separate from ARC approval
Summary
Herndon HOAs commonly operate architectural review committees (ARCs) requiring pre-approval for exterior changes including paint colors, fences, sheds, additions, landscaping, and solar installations. The Virginia POAA requires ARC decisions to be reasonable and consistent. Virginia law specifically protects solar energy installations and flagpoles from unreasonable HOA restrictions.
the board of directors shall have the power to establish, adopt, and enforce rules and regulations with respect to use of the common areas and with respect to such other areas of responsibility assigned to the association by the declaration, except where expressly reserved by the declaration to the members. Rules and regulations may be adopted by resolution and shall be reasonably published or distributed throughout the development. At a special meeting of the association convened in accordance with the provisions of the association's bylaws, a majority of votes cast at such meeting may repeal or amend any rule or regulation adopted by the board of directors.
Full Breakdown
Most Herndon HOAs, particularly in planned developments like Reston-adjacent communities and neighborhoods around Herndon's core, operate architectural review committees (ARCs) or architectural control committees with authority over exterior modifications. Common changes requiring ARC approval include: exterior paint colors; roofing material and color; fences, walls, and hedges; sheds, gazebos, and accessory structures; decks, patios, and pergolas; window replacements and storm doors; landscaping changes; and solar panel installations. The Virginia POAA requires ARC procedures to be stated in the governing documents, decisions to be made within stated timeframes (commonly 45-60 days), and applications to be treated consistently.
An ARC cannot arbitrarily deny an application that complies with stated standards. 1 protects certain types of religious displays. Homeowners who disagree with ARC decisions may appeal to the HOA board per governing documents, and ultimately to the Virginia CICB or court. Town of Herndon building permits are a separate requirement independent of ARC approval; both may be required for structural changes. Always obtain ARC approval before starting work and before applying to the Town for permits, as altering an unapproved project is more expensive than avoiding the conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Herndon HOA deny my solar panels?
How long does my Herndon HOA have to approve my ARC request?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Herndon
Compare Herndon to another location·View the Virginia hoa rules overview
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Architectural Review in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fairfax County handle architectural review.