Lexington, KY HOA Rules: Architectural Review (2026)

Architectural review in Lexington HOA communities is governed by each association's Declaration of Covenants, which typically establishes an Architectural Review Committee or Board with authority to approve or deny exterior modifications. Kentucky law (KRS 381.9101+ for condos and general contract law for planned communities) enforces these provisions as covenants running with the land. Typical ARC jurisdiction covers: paint colors, roofing materials and color, fence materials and height, decks and patios, room additions, garages and accessory buildings, landscaping changes, mailboxes, exterior lighting, satellite dishes (subject to FCC OTARD rule limits), solar panels (Kentucky has no statewide solar access law protecting HOA installations), basketball goals, play structures, flagpoles, and signage. Applications typically require site plans, elevations, material samples, color chips, and contractor information. Response windows vary by community, commonly 30-60 days, with deemed approval in some CC&Rs if no response. Denials must generally be based on stated architectural guidelines, not arbitrary reasons, and owners can appeal internally or file suit in Fayette Circuit Court. In Hamburg and Beaumont, aggressive enforcement is common, with fines of 25-100 dollars per day for unapproved modifications plus required removal. The LFUCG Division of Building Inspection does not coordinate with HOAs — a building permit from the city does not satisfy HOA approval, and vice versa. Owners must obtain both separately for projects requiring each. Federal fair housing law limits HOA restrictions on accessibility modifications and certain religious displays.