About
Architecture Committee
The SMPOA Architectural Committee (AC) are volunteers, appointed by the SMPOA board annually to carry out the responsibility of reviewing plans and specifications for any proposed building, garage, fence or balcony to determine compliance with the CC&R’s ocean view protection clause and the conformity and harmony of external designs with existing structures. Subject plans and specifications must be approved by the AC before construction.
Download the “What to know before building” document HERE
for important information to inform any construction or renovation plans so they are compliant with the CC&Rs and can gain fast approval from the AC.
The following categories of projects require AC review and approval of relevant plans
prior to construction:
Fire-related rebuild plans, which should conform to the CC&Rs, while avoiding incremental Ocean View Impact (OVI)
Any changes that may impact ocean views (OVI) in the community
New building or garage construction, major remodels, exterior changes
Visible landscaping and hardscaping
Pools, decks, balconies, rooftop features, and accessory structures
Requesting the AC to approve your project
Prospective Property Owners: Please submit your questions or proposed plans to the Architectural Committee via email: ac@sunsetmesa.org
Current Property Owners: Submit your requests to the AC via the AC Rebuild Request Review form on the PayHOA portal. https://app.payhoa.com/app/forms. Upon completion, your Letter Of Determination (LOD) will also be sent through this portal.
What to expect:
The AC will promptly review all requests with priority given to fire rebuilds, which can be approved in a week or less.
You may submit questions or request a meeting with the AC to discuss your project. We encourage early engagement to facilitate a smooth and timely process.
When the evaluation process is complete, the AC will issue a letter of determination (LOD) to clarify if the request is Approved or Denied.
If plans are not approved, the AC will reach out with feedback and work with the Owner(s) to clarify and resolve any issues prior to denying a request.
Rebuild plans that match the previous structure’s dimensions are easiest to approve quickly.
Design changes are welcome, but may require more time to compare the proposed plans with the previous dimensions and evaluate impacts to OVI or the CC&Rs. Site visits may be required.
When planning for a rebuild, be advised that height increases contribute to OVI and are discouraged. Roofline changes can create OVI. Pitched rooflines create less OVI than flat roofs of the same peak height.
Rebuild approval progress and any status changes are published to the SMPOA monthly.
Reporting a problem
The CC&Rs exist to protect property owners. If you believe a project is proceeding in violation of the CC&Rs, causing Ocean View Impact or your property rights are being negatively impacted, please raise this to the SMPOA Board by submitting a General Request on the PayHOA portal. https://app.payhoa.com/app/forms.