Compliance Corner: Additional Residential Design Guideline Updates Approved by the Board

The Stonebridge Ranch Community Association Board of Directors has approved another phase of updates to the Residential Design Guidelines as recommended by the Modifications Committee. These updates continue the Association’s ongoing effort to make the architectural review process more consistent, transparent, and easier for homeowners to navigate.

See updated guidelines HERE.

The most recently approved guideline sections include:

• Lighting
• Outdoor Fireplaces, Fire Pits, Outdoor Kitchen Areas & Water Features
• Temporary Outdoor Shade Structures & Sail Shades
• Pools, Pool Equipment, Ponds & Inground Swim Spas
• Screened Porch Enclosures
• Screening
• Security
• Signs
• Solar Energy Devices (Solar Panels & Solar Roof Tiles)
• Storage Structures & Sheds
• Windows

These updated guidelines provide additional clarity on design standards, placement requirements, materials, screening expectations, setbacks, drainage considerations, and application requirements for a variety of common exterior improvements. While each improvement type has its own specific criteria, many projects continue to require a Residential Modification Application before work begins.

Examples of the updated guidance include:

• Exterior lighting standards that help reduce glare and light spillover while accommodating modern lighting technologies.
• Design requirements for outdoor fireplaces, kitchens, water features, and temporary shade structures.
• Updated standards for pools, spas, and related equipment, including screening and drainage requirements.
• Requirements for screened porch enclosures that complement the home’s existing architecture.
• Screening standards for mechanical equipment, trash tote enclosures, and other visible service items.
• Guidelines for security cameras and related equipment that balance homeowner security with neighborhood aesthetics.
• Clarification of permitted residential signs, including security, school, political, and real estate signs.
• Design standards for solar panels and solar roof tiles that comply with Texas law while preserving community appearance.
• Requirements for storage sheds, including materials, placement, roof design, and size limitations.

These updates apply only to the Residential Design Guidelines. They are not amendments to the Declaration (CC&Rs) and do not require a vote of the membership. The Board has the authority to adopt and update these guidelines as part of the Association’s architectural review process.

If you’re planning an exterior improvement, review the applicable guideline before starting your project. Taking a few minutes to understand the requirements and submitting a complete application when needed can help avoid delays during the review process.

The approved guideline sections are available for homeowner review and will be incorporated into the Association’s complete Residential Design Guidelines. Additional sections will continue to be reviewed and updated in future phases as the Association works toward a more comprehensive and user-friendly set of design standards for Stonebridge Ranch.

In case you missed it, see the previous communication with the last set of updated guidelines HERE.