Hearthstone Village Community Association

Architectural Guidelines

Access PDF

Below is an unofficial copy of the Architectural Guidelines for convenience.

Approval Process for Construction Projects

Before beginning any construction, the following steps must be completed:

  1. Submit Plans for Approval
    • All plans, permits, sketches, drawings, and building material details must be submitted with the ACC Submission Form.
    • Submissions can be made in writing or via the Hearthstone Village website.
    • Email submissions to: admin@hvca-fortwayne.org
  2. Review and Confirmation
    • The Hearthstone ACC will confirm receipt of the submission.
    • Additional documentation or project details may be requested.
  3. Final Decision
    • The HVCA Board of Directors and ACC will issue a written approval or denial within 30 days.

Guidelines for Specific Projects

Fences

  • Materials Allowed: Vinyl, powder-coated aluminum (wrought iron style), or traditional wood in a natural stained or painted finish.
  • Maximum Height: 6 feet
  • Placement:
    • Fences must not extend beyond the back line of the house, except to enclose a garage utility access door (up to 4 feet high, set back 3 feet from the property line).
    • Front yard fences are permitted only on corner lots, must be open construction (split rail or picket style), and cannot exceed 3 feet in height.
    • All fence posts must be inside the fence; the finished side must face outward.
  • Maintenance: Property owners must ensure fences are well-maintained through regular painting, staining, and power washing.

Note: Property owners are responsible for compliance with City of Fort Wayne easement regulations.

Swimming Pools & Spas

  • Permitted:
    • In-ground pools and spas.
    • Above-ground, inflatable pools up to 48” in height (non-rigid).
  • Requirements:
    • Any pool over 24” in height must be enclosed within a 6-foot privacy fence (approved by the HVCA ACC).
    • Inflatable pools must be stored out of sight from October 1 to May 1.
    • All pools and spas must be properly maintained and comply with municipal zoning and building codes.

Structures

  • Prohibited:
    • Tool sheds, yard sheds, barns, trailers, mobile homes, boats, campers, tents, treehouses, dog houses, work equipment, burn barrels, or any other unattached structures.
  • Exceptions:
    • Gazebos and pergolas may be approved by the HVCA ACC.

House Exterior Modifications

  • Prior approval required for:
    • Exterior additions, decks, concrete work, sidewalks, paths, high-intensity lighting, or any other structural changes.
    • Metal roofs are permitted but must be approved by the HVCA ACC.

Children’s Playsets

  • Height Limit: 12 feet
  • Materials: Must be heavy-duty and maintained regularly (painting, staining, and power washing recommended).
  • Approval Required: All playsets must be approved according to HVCA ACC guidelines.

Basketball Hoops

  • Placement:
    • Must be free-standing unless placed next to the driveway, on the side away from the front of the house, and at least 15 feet from the curb.
  • Maintenance: Must be commercial-grade and properly maintained (painting/staining recommended).

Vacant Homes

  • Homeowners are responsible for lawn care and snow removal until the property is occupied.

Compliance & Enforcement

  • These guidelines are enforced per the Hearthstone Village Community Covenants, recorded within Allen County.
  • The HVCA ACC has full authority and responsibility for architectural control in the community.

For further information, find the Architecture Approval section on the Contact page.