Architectural Review Board

A Ghent Square ARB Request Application form has been developed to assist the Homeowner in requesting an ARB review. This form allows the Homeowner to describe the nature of each proposed alteration. Download and print form so that you and neighbors can sign it before submitting it to the ARB. Although repairs or replacements that do not alter the existing appearance do not require review or approval, all neighbors are encouraged to contact management to inquire if the project proposal requires ARB approval. The following is required for an ARB review:

1. 1. A full description of the project that includes relevant information such as: height, width, length, shape, color, size, product literature, material samples, and location of the proposed improvement. The ARB may require a copy of the estimate or contract that describes the project scope and material. The cost may be redacted. Photographs or sketches of similar completed projects, while not required, aid the ARB’s consideration. A request to the ARB to approve a change in the shape or appearance of the exterior building structure shall include architecturally accurate drawings with plan and elevation views drawn to scale prior to consideration of the proposal. Requests for changes to fences or sheds may require a copy of the survey (plot). If the proposed improvements will have an impact on an existing drainage pattern, the proposed new drainage pattern must also be included. Homeowners may seek preliminary input from the ARB as an interim step prior to the submission to the ARB of additional information or more detailed drawings supporting their application for approval.
   2. In order for the ARB form to be complete, it must be initialed by each adjoining and/or facing property owner. Neighbors’ signatures indicate they acknowledge being notified of the Homeowner’s proposed work, not that they approve of the project. The completed form is then sent to Ghent Square management along with the supporting documentation. It can be scanned/emailed to management or dropped off at the Ghent Square clubhouse located at 852 Mowbray Arch, Norfolk VA 23507. There is a mail slot at the clubhouse through which the form may be deposited if no one is available at the time of drop off. Management will submit the form to the ARB.
   3. Any non-applicant Homeowner who wishes to provide input about a proposed project should contact the Management Office. The information should be submitted prior to the next ARB meeting. The information may be submitted in writing or by email. In addition, the non-applicant Homeowner may attend the ARB meeting.
   4. To be placed on the monthly meeting agenda, the completed ARB form and any supporting documents (photos, redacted contracts, etc.) must be received by the GSCA clubhouse fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the next ARB meeting.

The ARB will meet once a month, or as required. ARB meetings are open to all Ghent Homeowners. The meeting may be conducted virtually and/or meeting location may change, so homeowners wishing to attend should confirm the location and/or link to the meeting prior to the meeting day.

Homeowners may not commence with any construction/landscaping work until written ARB approval is received. The project must be completed as approved by the ARB. No deviation from the ARB’s approved plans is allowed. Once approved, construction/landscaping must be completed within twelve (12) months of ARB approval.

If a proposal is denied by the ARB, the applicant Homeowner may, within thirty (30) days after the denial, request in writing that the ARB reconsider its decision. In such cases, the applicant Homeowner is encouraged to present new or additional information which might clarify the request or demonstrate its acceptability.

If an applicant or non-applicant homeowner has previously appealed to the ARB that it reconsider its decision (item 4, above) and has again been denied by the ARB, the Homeowner may subsequently appeal to the BOD by written notice within fifteen (15) days after the date of the final decision by the ARB. Copies of this notice of appeal shall be mailed to the applicant homeowner, to the ARB, and to any non-applicant homeowner who made a presentation or submitted evidence at the ARB proceedings. The Chair of the ARB or a designated member of the ARB will join the BOD, ad hoc, at the time of the appeals hearing.

ARB approval is not a substitute for compliance with the City of Norfolk’s zoning ordinances and building codes. (See page 17 of this document for the relevant City of Norfolk codes.)

There is no fee if a Homeowner submits a project within ARB jurisdiction prior to the commencement of work. When a homeowner has initiated a project within ARB jurisdiction without prior approval, there shall be a $50 “after the fact” application fee. If the project is not approved, removal, correction or modification of the project may be required. A waiver of the $50.00 fee may be approved by the ARB only in the most limited circumstances. Potential grounds to be cited for a waiver should address the following circumstances insofar as they are applicable to the application: shortness of applicant’s residency period; applicant’s lack of previous interaction with the ARB; the marginal visual impact of the project; and the clarity or lack thereof the ARB’s jurisdiction. ARB approval or rejection of a request for a fee waiver shall be accompanied by the ARB’s rationale supporting its decision.