Whether you’re a new resident or have called Daniel Island home for years, planning ahead is the first step to a successful home improvement project. Before making any changes to the exterior of your home or property, remember that approval from the Daniel Island Architectural Review Board (ARB) is required by the applicable Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs) governing your property.
Obtaining ARB approval before work begins helps ensure your project complies with the community’s design standards and protects the character that makes Daniel Island such a desirable place to live. These standards not only help preserve property values throughout the community, but they also provide consistency in architectural design and help homeowners avoid costly changes later. Please note that exterior modifications completed without prior ARB approval may result in fines and/or the requirement to remove or modify the unapproved work.
Common Projects That Require ARB Approval
Many exterior improvements require approval before construction or installation begins, including:
- Exterior paint color changes
- Siding or roofing replacements
- Window and door replacements
- Hurricane protection systems
- Solar panel installations
- Porches, sunrooms, decks, sheds, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), finished room over garage (FROGs), generators, and HVAC equipment
- Tree removals
- Landscaping, grading, drainage, and hardscape modifications
- Outdoor kitchens, pools, and spas
- Fence or wall additions, replacements, or modifications
- Docks and bulkheads
- Exterior signage (DITA properties only)
If you’re unsure whether your project requires approval, it’s always best to ask before getting started.
Thinking About Hiring a Contractor?
Before selecting a contractor, consider asking your neighbors about companies they’ve had positive experiences with. Local community Facebook groups and neighborhood forums can also be excellent resources for recommendations, project photos, and helpful insights from fellow residents.
Regardless of who you hire, remember that all required ARB approvals must be obtained before work begins. Contractors may be unfamiliar with Daniel Island’s specific design guidelines, so checking with the ARB early in the planning process can help prevent delays, unexpected expenses, or the need to revise completed work.
We’re Here to Help
The ARB staff is available to answer questions, explain applicable guidelines, and help you navigate the approval process before you invest time and money into your project.
Please contact:
- Carson Gruber, ARB Administrator
Carson.Gruber@dicommunity.org - Marla Chalfie, Resident Services & ARB Associate
Marla.Chalfie@dicommunity.org
You may also contact the POA office at (843) 971-9200 with general questions.
ARB applications, forms, and Design Guidelines are available on the POA website at: https://dicommunity.org/resources/arb/
Thank you for helping preserve the quality, beauty, and value of the Daniel Island community by following the Architectural Review Board process before beginning your next exterior home improvement project.
