Architectural Review Standards

Le Paradis Homeowners Association

The Le Paradis Subdivision is located in Coweta County along Fischer Road, Sharpsburg, Georgia, 30277

The following is the text of the Architectural Review Guide effective June 6, 2025. 

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Le Paradis Architectural Review Committee Review Standards

9.01 Purpose  In order to preserve the natural setting and beauty of the Subdivision, to establish and preserve a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing design for the Subdivision and to protect and promote the value of the Property, the Lots and all improvements located therein or therein shall be subject to the restrictions set forth in this Article IX. Every grantee of any interest in the Property, by acceptance of deed or other conveyance of such interest, agrees to be bound by the provisions of this Article I

From Article IX Architectural Standards And Use Restrictions of the "Declarations of Covenants, Conditions, Restrictions and Easements For Le Paradis" filed with the Clerk of Superior Court, Coweta County, GA. on April 29, 1992. Book 672 Page 289. Throughout this document the "Declarations of Covenants, Conditions, Restrictions and Easements For Le Paradis" will be referred to as "the Covenants".

The paragraph above is the opening point in Article IX Architectural Standards And Use Restrictions. This paragraph sets forth the reasons for and the guiding principles of the Architectural Control Committee, referred to in this document as the Architectural Review Committee. This Subdivision was created with a particular vision in mind, a beautiful rolling development with an abundance of trees and well groomed landscaping; where the houses, though not all the same, fit into the overall design and harmony of the development. Any new structures, as defined in Section 1.20 of the Covenants, that disturbs this harmony not only devalues the property where situated but also devalues every other property in the development. Thus guidelines are needed that define what structures will complement and improve the overall aesthetics of the development and what structures should be prohibited. Many of the items listed below are already in the Covenants. What is presented below is an expansion of Section IX. These Review Standards provide the necessary framework for the review and approval process. Plenty of leeway for the individual homeowner is provided while still protecting the Subdivision as a whole. These guidelines must be taken seriously by all homeowners; because when these guidelines are violated, the rights of all of the surrounding neighbors are in effect also being violated.

The following guidelines are the standards for all modifications to existing structures and to new structures within the Le Paradis development. Also addressed within this document are the maintenance standards for all structures within the Le Paradis development. These standards will be applied to all Lots, Common Area and Structures as defined in Article I of the Covenants.

This document is a guideline used by the Architectural Review Committee in the approval process. If a condition arises that is not covered in this document, the Architectural Review Committee still has the authority to rule on such condition as outlined in the Covenants and Restrictions. The absence of any standard from this document to cover a specific condition does not imply the acceptance or rejection of such condition by the Architectural Review Committee.

Requirements for All Requests

I. Notification Process:

A. Notification Lead Time: Per Section 9.06 Obligation To Act of the Covenants, the Architectural Review Committee must make a decision within thirty days of receiving proper notification of any potential change. To allow the Architectural Review Committee sufficient time to review construction plans, meet with the Property owner and resolve any architectural issues, a written request must be received at least three weeks prior to the commencement of any construction activity. The Committee will attempt to expedite all properly documented requests. However, if the request is not received three weeks prior to the start of construction activities, the Architectural Review Committee reserves the right to prohibit the commencement of any construction until it has had sufficient time to review the request in detail, pursuant to Section 9.06 Obligation To Act of the Covenants. The 30-day period specified in Section 9.06 Obligation To Act begins the day that all of the proper documentation, as defined below, has been received from the Owner. Once all of the proper documentation has been received the Architectural Review Committee will send a written response to the owner acknowledging the receipt of the request and thus the start of the review process.

B. Proper Request Documentation:

1. Written Request: All requests going before the Architectural Review Committee must have a written statement from the owner describing the request. For any construction activity, specific dimensions of any new structure of changes to any existing structure must be included along with a description of where the structure will be placed. Also the Owner must have the signatures of all surrounding neighbors on this request and the neighbor's initials on a copy of the plat acknowledging they have seen the proposed change and its anticipated location. Surrounding neighbors are defined as the neighbors to the left and the right of the subject property as well as any neighbor(s) directly in the front of or to the rear of the subject property. If any neighbor disapproves of the change they should make a notation next to their signature. The neighbor(s) must then submit a written statement expressing any concerns or objections to the Architectural Review Committee. Please note that disapproval from any one neighbor will not result in any automatic rejection of the request. Nor will the approval of all the neighbors guarantee the acceptance of the proposal. However, any request that does not have the proper signatures attached will be deemed invalid and thus delay the approval process. Requests for landscaping, such as new beds or fountains do not have to have the signatures of the surrounding neighbors unless the proposed landscaping change is outside of the side setback areas. In that case the affected neighbor must review the proposed landscaping change.

2. Copy Of Plat: Any request involving new structures or changes to existing structures must have a copy of the plat with the proposed change(s) clearly defined. And as stated above, the initials of the surrounding neighbors must also be present on the copy. The only exception to this standard is for placement of landscaping ornaments such as statues, fountains and birdbaths.

3. Elevations for Structures Not Requiring County Permits: If the request is for a new structure or for modifications to an existing structure, the following views must be submitted with the written request.

a.) Front view

b.) Side view

4. Elevations for Structures Requiring County Permits: If the request is for a new structure or for modifications to an existing structure either of which require a Coweta County Permit, the following elevations (shown with grade relationships) must be submitted with the request.

a.) Front

b.) Left and Right Side

c.) Rear

d.) Footprint (Footer and Pad) or (Footer and Foundation Wall)

e.) Copy of the Coweta County Permit

5. Start And Duration Of Construction: Along with the above documentation, a statement of when construction will commence, how many stages the construction activity is divided into and a construction timeline is required, not to exceed eight months. If an outside contractor is involved the name of the firm along with identification of any heavy equipment needed must also be included. Pursuant to Section 9.23 Construction of Improvements, any construction project extending more than 8 months from the commencement of said project is prohibited. If the project extends more than eight months, the owner must reapply to the Architectural Review Committee.

6. Notification Of Receipt: Once all of the proper documentation is received from the Owner, the Architectural Review Committee will:

a.) Send a letter to the Owner stating that the review process is underway.

b.) Establish a date and time to review the plans with the Owner.

7. Notification Of Decision: Pursuant to Section 9.05 Approval and Disapproval of Plans and Specifications, a decision to approve or disapprove the proposed project will be rendered within thirty (30) days of receipt of all the proper documentation. If approved without modifications, a date when construction activities may commence will be stated. If any project review points are needed during the construction period, they will also be noted. If modifications to the plans are required, the exact changes will be specified on the conditional approval. The owner must respond, in writing, that they acknowledge and accept the stipulations. Construction activities cannot commence until this response is received. If a written response is not received then the request will be deemed invalid and thus subject to Section 9.08 Violations. If the request is disapproved, the reasons for disapproval will be stated.

8. Modifications or Changes: Any modifications to the plans made after the Architectural Review Committee has approved the request must be submitted in writing and reviewed by the Architectural Review Committee. This would include but not be limited to: change in the dimensions of the structure, placement of the structure, type or style of construction materials. The modifications will be reviewed and either approved or disapproved by the Architectural Review Committee. If a written response is not received then the request will be deemed invalid and thus subject to Section 9.08 Violations.

9. Final Inspection: A final inspection of the construction project must be held with the Architectural Review Committee. The final structure will be compared against the original approved plans along any approved modifications. A final approval letter from the Architectural Review Committee will then be issued. Any variances from the original or modified plans will be noted along with the proper remedies. If the final structure is materially different from the approved plans it will be deemed in violation of the Covenants and thus subject to Section 9.08 Violations.

10. Violations: Any-structure that has not been approved by the Architectural Review Committee is deemed in violation of the Covenants and thus subject to Section 9.08 Violations. The Architectural Review Committee reserves the right to remedy the situation as outlined in Section 9.08. A formal letter of violation will be sent by the Architectural Review Committee specifying the violation(s) and ways to remedy the violation(s). The Owner will have fifteen (15) days to remedy the situation. At the expiration of this period the Architectural Review Committee reserves the right, as granted in Section 9.08 Violations, Section 10.01 Enforcement, Section 10.02 Self-Help, Section 3.03 Easements For Association and Section 5.02 Responsibilities of Association to:

a.) Remedy the violation to bring the structure into compliance

b.) Remove subject structure.

c.) Submit a statement to the Owner for all expenses incurred by the Association to remedy the violation.

Article I Vehicles: As specified in Section 9.16 Motor Vehicles. Trailers, Boats, Etc. the Architectural Review Committee has the right to restrict or prohibit certain types of vehicles from being kept, placed, stored, operated or maintained within the Subdivision. The following section details the regulations for any vehicle which is kept, placed, stored, maintained or operated by any owner or by any guest of any owner within the Le Paradis Development. The rules specified below do not apply to vehicles brought in for a specific purpose such as delivery or to assist in an approved improvement on an owner's property. These vehicles may enter to perform their specific function and then leave the development. Any extended use or storage of prohibited vehicles for construction activities beyond the normal work day must receive approval from the Architectural Review Committee.

Section 1.01 Prohibited Vehicles: The following vehicles are expressly prohibited from being kept, placed, stored, maintained or operated within the development

A.) Vehicles with more than 2 axles

B.) Commercial vehicles without specific approval from the Architectural Committee and the Le Paradis Board of Directors

C.) Heavy construction equipment or farm equipment

Section 1.02 Trailers: Trailers that are towed behind an approved vehicle, such as an automobile or pick-up truck may be stored and maintained on an owner's lot as long as;

A.) Trailer is stored in owner's garage

B.) Trailer is stored in an approved shed

C.) Trailer is stored in an approved shelter

Section 1.03 Recreational Vehicles RVs: As a policy, RVs are prohibited from being stored and/or maintained within the Development. However, the following exceptions are allowed as long as a written notification is received by the Architectural Review Committee or a personal conversation s held between the owner and a member Of the Architectural Review Committee. NOTE: A message left on an answering machine is not deemed a personal conversation. (A formal review process is not required.)

Preparation For Trip: The RV may be stored on the Owner's property for a period of not greater than one week to prepare for a vacation.

Outside Visitors: If the RV is brought in by a guest of an Owner, the RV may remain in the development for a period of no more than seven (7) days. The RV must be parked off of the street; however it can be visible from the street. Any exceptions to this provision must be reviewed by the Architectural Review Committee prior to the arrival of the vehicle.

Section 1.04 Condition Of Vehicles and Storage: As specified in Section 9.16 Motor Vehicles. Trailers. Boats. Etc.,  garages should not be used as a storage area to the point where vehicles cannot be stored inside. If because the number of vehicles owned by the Owner prohibits the storage of any vehicle in a garage or approved shed, then the vehicle must be in running condition ,properly licensed by the state and must be in visually good condition. Storage of any vehicle under repair on the driveway is prohibited and said vehicle must be placed in the garage or an approved shed.

Article Il Fences and Lattices: As specified in Section 9.18 Fences the Architectural Review Committee has the right to approve/disapprove all fences. The following are the guidelines that are used to evaluate new fencing and modifications to existing fencing. The evaluation of an individual fence will vary upon where the fence is erected on the property and what part of the sub-division the lot is located. There are four basic areas for fencing: a.) rear of lot lake frontage b.) Le Paradis Blvd. frontage c.) front of property . along side street frontage d) rear property which does not face the lake but is visible from any street and/or any adjacent house. Fences may be constructed in the following manner

Section 2.01 Height of Fence:

A.) Fences constructed in the front of the house may not exceed 4 feet in height

B.) Fences constructed in the rear of the house may not exceed 6 feet in height

Section 2.02 Color of Fence*:

A.) White

B.) Natural

C.) Stained and sealed

*Depending upon the fence location your choices of color may be limited.

Section 2.03 Style of Fence:

A.) Fence is constructed on a property facing the lakefront. Contact the Architectural Review Committee for example fence styles and colors.

B.) Fence is constructed on the front of a property facing Le Paradis Blvd. Contact the Architectural Review Committee for example fence styles and colors.

C.) Fence is constructed on the front of a property facing one of the side streets. .Contact the Architectural Review Committee for example fence styles and colors.

D.) Fence is constructed on the rear of a property that does not face the lake nor is visible from Le Paradis Blvd. Contact the Architectural Review Committee for example fence styles and colors.

Section 2.04 Maintenance of Fence: Fences must be maintained on an annual basis such that:

A.) All fences must be kept free from debris, mud, mold mildew and unwanted undergrowth.

B.) Any rotten or broken sections of fence are replaced with identical fencing.

C.) Any peeling or worn painted/stained surfaces are repaired.

Section 2.05 ReplacementÆxtension of Fence:

A.) If a section of fencing needs replacement it must be of the same style, height, color and composition.

B.) If the fence is extended, it must first be reviewed and approved by the Architectural Review Committee.

Section 2.06 Lattice Work: Lattice work is allowed with approval of the Architectural Review Committee.

Section 2.07 Chain Link Fencing: As a general rule chain link fencing is not acceptable. However, under certain circumstances a chain link fence with approved vine coverage may be used in certain areas of the yard such as the rear of the property where is not visible from the road. Each request for fencing where chain link is specified will be reviewed on a case by case basis.

Article Ill New Buildings: Pursuant to Section 9.01 Purpose, Section 9.04 Submission of  Plans and Specifications, Section 9.10 Building Restrictions, Section 9.23 Construction of Improvements, and Section 9.30 Structure Finish the Architectural Review Committee has approval/disapproval authority for the design and construction of any building with in the Development.

Section 3.01 Placement Of Structure: Unless otherwise specified by the Architectural Committee any new shed must be placed behind the main house in a position which provides minimal view from the street. Playgrounds must be placed in the rear of the property Section 9.26 Recreational Equipment. Unless so approved by the Architectural Review Committee and any applicable building code(s) the placement of any structure must be within the set back lines specified on the recorded plat of the property. These set back lines are 10 feet on either side, 50 feet in the front and 40 feet in the fear of the property.

Section 3.02 Foundation of Structure: All structures must be placed on a foundation per approved government code(s). New decks mayor may not be required to be placed on a permanent slab or foundation.

Section 3.03 Garage Entrance: Unless specifically approved by the Architectural Committee and the Board of Directors, all garage entrances must be placed on the side or rear of the property.

Section 3.04 Outside Appearance of Building: Unless otherwise stated the following holds true for any detached or attached structure other than a storage shed.

A.) Material(s) and Color Of Structure: The outside surface of the building must match the exterior surface of the house. If there are two surfaces, such as brick and siding, then if the new structure is attached to the main house the same surfaces must be used. If the building is detached the owner may or may not be required to use both of the surfaces or just the predominant surface depending on lot positioning of the construction.

B.) Roof Pitch: The pitch of the roof must match the flow of the house.

C.) Windows: If the structure is attached to the main house then the same style and dispersion of windows must be followed. If the structure is detached windows mayor may not be required.

D.) Color: Under all circumstances the color of the surface(s) must match that of the main house.

E.) Shingles: The shingles must be of the same color, shape, size and texture as that of the main house.

F.) Outside Accents: If the new structure is attached to the main house then outside accents, such as shutters, crowns etc. must match that of the main house. If the structure is detached then the same accents mayor may not be required.

Article IV Lawn/Garden: Pursuant to Section 9.22 Exterior Structures all fountains, statutes, bird baths etc., must have the approval of the Architectural Review Committee.

Depending upon the size and location of structure, a formal approval process may or may not be required. With the exception of satellite dishes, all exterior structures exceeding three (3) feet in height must have approval of the Architectural Review Committee. A written request must be forwarded to the Committee stating the type, size, style and placement of structure. Pursuant to Section 9.06 Obligation To Act, if a negative response is not received within thirty (30) days of receipt then the structure is deemed approved. Satellite dishes however, must have the approval of the Architectural Review Committee regarding placement of the dish on the property. NOTE: Even though structures under three (3) feet in height do not require formal approval from the Architectural Review Committee, the Committee does reserve the right to have any structure removed that violates state/local laws or is deemed offensive by the Architectural Review Committee and the Board of Directors.

Section 4.01 Garden Ornaments: All garden ornaments such as statues, fountains and birdbaths must be submitted for review to the Architectural Review Committee if they exceed three (3) feet in height. A picture and dimensions of the structure must accompany the request. Large birdhouses must also be submitted to the Committee for review. A physical inspection may or may not be required.

Section 4.02 Landscaping: Pursuant to Section 9.03 (b) Permitted Improvements; Standards, the Architectural Review Committee reserves the right to approve/disapprove any changes to the landscaping on an individual property. However, to not impose a burden on the homeowner and on the Committee, any minor change to a landscaping design will not be reviewed. This would include the addition or removal of any plants, shrubs, or small trees that are less than 6" in diameter from any existing bed. A copy of the plat with the beds marked and a general description of the plants are sufficient. A physical inspection may or may not be required. This review is necessary to ensure that the current water runoff is not disrupted and impact an adjacent neighbor.

Section 4.03 Barriers/Curbing: Any new barriers, berms, edging or raised beds/mounds must be submitted to the Committee for review. Depending upon the size and height of the structure, an environmental statement may be required prior to approval if they would affect the natural flow of any drainage.

Section 4.04 Creation/Diversion of Streams and Run-Offs: Any change to the existing streams or run-offs that were present when the house was built must be approved by the Committee. Additionally, an environmental impact statement must be obtained.

Section 4.05 Maintenance of Lawn and Gardens:

A.) Mow and trim lawns to not exceed 4” in height. Particular attention should be given to trimming grass adjacent vertical surfaces such as walls, fences, trees, borders, utility boxes, and posts.

B.) Edge lawns bordering driveways, walkways, curbs, and borders so that grass is not growing over cement areas. Grass abutting established beds and tree wells should be edged and maintained to present a clear edge and definition between the lawn and bed areas.

C.) Maintain lawns to provide a weed-free appearance.

D.) Repair and maintain barren lawn areas to prevent potential erosion.

E.) Trim shrubs and hedges seasonally to maintain a neat and healthy appearance. Prune back branches as necessary to avoid interfering with walkways.

F.) Promptly remove dead shrubs, trees, and flowers.

G.) Keep beds free of weeds and mulched to present a neat appearance.

H.) Pick-up, sweep or blow from walkways, driveways, and gutters, all clippings caused by mowing, trimming or edging.

I.) Recycle or dispose of fallen branches and litter from all areas of the property to include the yard, gutters, driveways, and walkways.

J.) Maintain lot areas visible from the street in the same manner as front yards and beds.

K.) Trash or debris may not accumulate or be stored in a visible location unless in approved bins, dumpsters or other containers.

L.) Construction materials required for ARC-approved improvements should be neatly stored in as unobtrusive a location as possible when not in use.

M.) Residents are responsible for picking up litter and preventing the origination of wind-blown debris on their own lots.

N.) Newspapers and other deliveries should be promptly picked up and disposed of from driveways, gutters, and sidewalks.

Section 4.06 Trees: The existing trees are viewed not only as an asset of the individual owner but of the whole development. Thus as specified in the Covenants, unauthorized removal of trees is specifically prohibited. Thus any removal of trees must be approved by the Architectural Committee. If trees are removed with out proper approval, the owner will be subject to a fine of $100.00 per tree and or will be required to plants replacement tree(s) of sufficient size. Trees that are dead or diseased must be removed by the owner. Any tree that endangers the common areas or streets of the neighborhood must be removed by the owner. Written notification must be sent to the Architectural Review Committee at which point a member of the Committee may review the trees to be removed with the owner.

Article V Signs: Pursuant to Section 9.19 Signs the only signs permitted within the development must conform to the Covenants. The erection of any sign must have the prior approval of the Architectural Review Committee. Any sign(s) deemed to be in violation will be removed.

Article VI Dwelling Restrictions: Pursuant to Section 9.27 Dwelling Restrictions:

Section 6.01 Window Treatments: Sheets and/or blankets may not serve as window treatments.

Section 6.02 Seasonal Decorations: All seasonal decorations must be removed from the yard or exterior of the house within one (1) month of the holiday.

Article VII Maintenance of Structures: Pursuant to V Section 5.01 of the Covenants the following guidelines apply to all existing/new structures within the Le Paradis development.

A.) Keep house exteriors reasonably free of mold and mildew.

B.) Promptly repaint areas of peeling paint or rust. Periodically repaint faded elements such as shutters and doors. Residents may freely repaint to match existing colors. Changes in color require ARC review and approval.

C.) Replace or repaint rotted wood or fence and keep maintained.

D.) Promptly repair or replace broken or missing building components such as windows, siding, decorative elements, gutters, shutters, and roofing materials.

E.) Place basketball goals behind the front dwelling line. Basketball goal backboards and nets shall be neat in appearance at all times.

F.) Mailboxes: shall be black on white posts, clearly marked with house number associated with the residence. Numbers must be at least 1” tall, contrasting in color to the mailbox background, and easily readable from the street. Mailboxes must be kept in good working condition, straight, and reasonably free from mold and mildew. Paint when faded or rusty to maintain a fresh appearance.

G.) Repair or remove any outside furniture, umbrellas, banners or decorative elements which are broken or otherwise in a state of disrepair.

Section 7.01 Exterior Surfaces: All exterior surfaces of dwellings, sheds, detached garages or any other detached structure must be periodically cleaned. This includes the removal of all dirt, mold or fungus from the siding or coating of the house. Any siding or covering that has become damaged must be repaired promptly. If there is a stucco covering that has become marred or discolored it will need to be repainted with an approved color. Damage to any gutters or overhangs must be repaired promptly.

Section 7.02 Exterior Shutters: All shutters must be cleaned and if needed painted on a periodic basis. Damaged shutters must be repaired or replaced promptly.

Section 7.03 Exterior Doors: All exterior doors must be periodically cleaned to remove any dirt, mold or fungus. Bleached or marred surfaces must be repainted promptly. Damaged screens must be repaired promptly.

Section 7.04 Exterior Windows: Exterior windows must be periodically cleaned to remove any dirt, mold or fungus. Damaged windows and screens must be repaired or replaced promptly.

Section 7.05 Interior Blinds: Any interior blind that has become damaged must be repaired or replaced.

Section 7.06 Sidewalks and Driveways: All sidewalks and driveways must be kept clean and free from debris of any type.

Section 7.07 Front/rear decks. railings and stairs: The front porch railings must be periodically cleaned and repainted. The decking of front and rear decks must be periodically cleaned.