Properly exercised architectural control can create and preserve an attractive, livable community, and protect property values. You as a homeowner are most directly affected; therefore, a properly designed and operated system of design review and architectural control will yield substantial benefits to all.

The purpose of design review and architectural control is twofold: (1) to establish and preserve a harmonious design for the community, and (2) to protect the value of property in the community. The basic purpose of design review and architectural control is to keep the community looking like a nice place to live.

The basic authority for architectural control is established in the Sumter Landing Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions. This covenant is basically a contractual agreement to take or refrain from taking some action without prior approval of some authority. The covenants contain the design review authority and broad, general objectives; also through the covenants a committee is formed to review the proposed plans and to enforce the design standards as stated in the covenants.

Plan Review

This process begins with the submission of a written application for approval of the proposed project or change.

Please note that Columbia County does require a building permit for certain additions, changes and alterations of your property. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to contact Columbia County Building Department as to their specific requirements.

The Committee will approve or disapprove the plans and specifications submitted within thirty (30) days. Written notification of the decision of the Architectural Control Committee will be returned to the homeowner.

A request should always be transmitted in person or by mail, never by a third party, and never left at committee members’ homes when no one is there. If this procedure is not followed, the burden of proof of receipt shall be on the person making the submission.

Here are some forms you may find useful:

                 Request for Architectural Review

                Sumter Landing Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions**** 

****Disclaimer:  The attached Sumter Landing Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions is for informational purposes ONLY.  You can find the actual, true, and current document on file at the Columbia County Courthouse.****