What Homeowners Need to Know Before Starting Their Next Outdoor Project
Living in a Texas HOA community comes with plenty of perks—clean streets, maintained green spaces, and a cohesive neighborhood feel. But with those benefits come rules, especially when it comes to what you can build or install outside your home. If you’re thinking about upgrading your outdoor space with a new fence or deck, understanding your HOA’s guidelines is the first step to avoiding costly delays or having to tear down a completed project.
Here are 5 common HOA requirements in Texas that homeowners should know—especially before working with a fence or deck contractor:
1) Fence Style, Height, and Material Restrictions
Before you set your heart on a cedar privacy fence or a sleek horizontal design, check in with your HOA. Most Texas HOAs have specific requirements for fence height, materials, and even color. For example, some neighborhoods only allow wrought iron fencing in front yards or limit wood fencing to specific styles or finishes. Chain link fences? Often a hard no. At Sagamore Fence & Deck, we’re familiar with a wide range of local HOA guidelines and can help you select a design that looks amazing and gets the green light.
2) Fence Placement and Setback Rules
Just because a space is technically on your property doesn’t mean you can build there. HOAs often have rules about where a fence can be placed—how close it can be to sidewalks, neighboring homes, or public easements. Some communities even require “good neighbor” fencing, meaning both sides of the fence must look finished. Knowing these placement rules early on can save you from surprises during permitting or inspections.
3) Deck Visibility and Railing Requirements
If you’re adding a deck—especially a second-story or elevated one—there may be additional rules to follow. HOAs might restrict the height of the deck, require specific railing materials for safety and aesthetic consistency, or even dictate where a deck can be placed based on visibility from the street or neighboring yards. Whether you’re building a cozy patio space or a large entertaining deck, make sure it’s up to code and HOA-compliant.
4) Maintenance Standards
It’s not just about building the fence or deck—it’s about keeping it in great shape, too. HOAs usually require homeowners to maintain their fencing and decking to avoid an unkempt look in the neighborhood. That means repairing damaged boards, repainting or staining when needed, and avoiding signs of wear or rot. Sagamore uses high-quality materials that are built to last, but regular upkeep is key to staying on your HOA’s good side.
5) Approval Process and Paperwork
Almost every HOA in Texas will require you to submit a formal request—often including drawings, materials, contractor info, and project timelines—before any work begins. Some even have specific forms or approval boards that only meet once a month, so timing your submission is crucial. We work directly with homeowners to make this part easier, helping you gather the details you need for a smooth approval process.
Need HOA-Friendly Fence or Deck Options? We’ve Got You Covered.
Before you break ground on your next outdoor project, take a moment to review your HOA’s covenants and restrictions—or better yet, reach out to a team who knows the ins and outs. At Sagamore Fence & Deck, we’ve helped hundreds of Texas homeowners bring their vision to life without running into red tape. Whether you’re upgrading your fence, adding a deck, or both—we’ll make sure it’s built right, planned well, priced fair, and HOA-compliant. Contact us today to get started!
