Architectural Review Committee

Building & ARC

Planning a project? Here's what you need to know. BSOA's Architectural Review Committee ensures all construction reflects Big Sky's community standards.

Do I need approval?

Five steps to approval

Read your covenants & design guidelines

Requirements vary by subdivision. Start with your neighborhood's covenants and BSOA's current Design Guidelines before drawing a single line.

Schedule a pre-application meeting

A short conversation with our Architectural Review Coordinator can save weeks. Bring your concept — we'll flag issues early.

Submit your application & fees

Plans, site survey, materials, colors, and landscape design — submitted with the applicable review fee and compliance deposit.

ARC review

The committee reviews submissions at its regular meetings, typically twice monthly. You'll receive written findings.

Build — then final inspection

Construct per the approved plans. A final inspection releases your compliance deposit once the work matches the approval.

Schedule a pre-application meeting

Applications & Forms

What you'll need

Next ARC Meetings

Contact the office to confirm your application is complete before the submission deadline.

Full BSAC calendar & minutes →
Common Questions

Do I need ARC approval?

When in doubt, contact the office before you start. It's faster to get a quick answer upfront than to undo work after the fact.

Do I need approval to paint my house a new color?

Yes. Any change to exterior paint color requires ARC approval before work begins. Submit your proposed color samples and the paint manufacturer's name with your application.

I want to build a deck or add a patio. Do I need approval?

Yes. Any new structure, addition, or exterior change — including decks, patios, fences, sheds, and gazebos — requires ARC approval. Submit your plans, materials, and site location before breaking ground.

What about a fence?

Yes, fences require ARC approval. Requirements vary by subdivision — some covenants prohibit certain fence styles entirely. Check your covenants and contact the office before purchasing materials.

Can I install a propane fire feature?

Propane fire pits and fire features are allowed with ARC approval. Note: new wood-burning fire pits are prohibited throughout the BSOA jurisdiction.

I'm just replacing my roof with the same material. Do I still need approval?

If you're using the exact same material, color, and profile, a simple notice to the office is typically sufficient. If you're changing materials or color, a full ARC application is required. Contact us to confirm before you schedule your contractor.

What's the typical timeline for ARC review?

The BSAC meets approximately twice a month. Complete applications submitted before the deadline are typically reviewed at the next meeting. After approval, you have a set period to complete construction — timeframes are specified in your approval letter.

Fees, deposits & review procedures →
What happens if I build without approval?

BSOA's enforcement resolution provides for fines and compliance action for unpermitted construction. More importantly, you may be required to remove or modify the work at your own expense. It's always faster and less expensive to get approval first.

Read the Enforcement Procedures resolution →