The ALC Permit Process
The ALC Permit Request process is an integral part of assuring that any and all improvements a Homeowner makes to the exterior of the property conform to ALC Guidelines. It also has a positive effect on keeping our community well maintained. Our Department is interested in helping you get these improvements or maintenance accomplished, before you spend those hard-earned dollars. You may not remember, but when you purchases of your home, you signed a document to agree to be governed by the Association’s Documents.
The most relevant document is the ALC Guidelines., This is reviewed and updated by the Architectural Landscape Committee (ALC). The ALC is responsible to the Board of Directors for the approval or disapproval of all modifications made to the exterior of your property, from re-painting your house to room additions, landscaping and swimming pools. The basis of this system is to assure our community maintains its esthetic charm and style.
Every project for the exterior of your home must have an approved ALC Permit Request before any work is started. Homeowners have the responsibility of obtaining the permit. In most instances, approval is the same day submitted. Exceptions are the more complicated construction projects, such as room additions, pools, solar installations, etc., which generally require a Maricopa County (or for Ironwood Estates, a City of Chandler) Building Permit.
When your Contractor says you don’t need a Permit. City and county building codes are based on a set of rules or standards that specify the minimum level of safety of various construction or installations. These are enacted to protect you and your property. Building code are laws and subject to remedial requirements and fines. Typically the fine is a multiple of the original permit fee.
Occasionally, a contractor will state that his project doesn’t require a city or county permit and claim no permit was issued for many of his customers. Please note: If a municipal building permit is required, final approval of the ALC Permit will not be issued until a copy of the approved city or county permit is submitted with the ALC Permit Request. Failure to obtain a Permit is subject to issuance of a violation and possible fines.
Maricopa County has stated that with few exceptions, everything attached to your house or constructed on your property will require a permit. The City of Chandler’s list is somewhat different; they offer a “Homeowner Building Permit Manual.” If you have a question, please give our office a call at 480-802-2776. We have found that both agencies are very helpful. The contact information for both is below:
Maricopa County, Planning & Development:
Website: http://www.maricopa.gov/planning/Default.aspx
Address: 501 N. 44th Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85008 (602) 506-3301
City of Chandler, Planning & Development:
Website: http://www.chandleraz.gov/default.aspx?pageid=148
Address: 215 E. Buffalo Street, Suite 104, Chandler, AZ 85248 (480) 782-3000
David Erwin
Director, ALC