An Exterior Alteration Application is required for all alterations to the dwelling or property.  Building Alterations include, but are not limited to, paint and siding, storm doors and windows, construction or enlargement of porches, rooms or other additions to the home; repainting requires approval only if the color is changed.  Alterations also include grading, excavations and landscaping.

The original architectural character or theme of any unit, should remain congruous within itself and to others around it.  Once the character is established, whether it is traditional, contemporary, etc., no portion should be changed or added to, which would conflict with or change that character.  The unit of measure should be the building within the surrounding area in order to maintain the original continuity.  For example, the addition of elements around the door (such as lighting and decorative fixtures) should be considered in the context of the original architecture, as well as the proposed changes on the adjacent structures.  Changes to the panel materials on the door should be considered on their own merit.  The following information is required on all Exterior Alteration Applications:

• A site plan showing the location of the proposed structure, distances from neighboring dwellings, property lines and other identifiable landmarks.

• Detailed drawings and plans including exterior elevations, floor plans, foundation plans, changes in grade and the relationship of the proposed structure to the existing dwelling and other buildings.

• Specifications for exterior materials including type of siding on dwelling and proposed structure, color of existing dwelling and trim, color samples or proposed structures and trim, and exterior lighting arrangements.

If Baltimore County authorities make any changes to the plans as approved by the Architectural Committee, the homeowner is responsible for notifying the Committee of the changes prior to construction for approval of the changes.

Signatures and lot numbers of all property owners surrounding the applicant's property should be obtained so that the Architectural Committee will have a sense of the neighbors reactions and knowledge of the proposed alteration.  For more information on the application process, please visit our Lot Alteration Application FAQ page.