How to Get Your Shed Approved by Brandermill & Woodlake HOAs
Your step-by-step guide to navigating Architectural Review Boards in two of Richmond’s premier planned communities.
HOAs like Brandermill and Woodlake require sheds to match your home’s exterior materials and colors. Approval typically takes about 30 days and requires a complete submission package including plot plans, color swatches, and material specifications.
- Match siding, roof, and trim to your home.
- Submit a full ARB package (plot plan, specs, colors, photos).
- Expect up to 30 days for review and response.
Why HOA Approval Matters
If you live in a planned community with a Homeowners Association, installing a shed without proper approval can result in:
- Removal requirements – You may be forced to remove an unapproved structure.
- Fines – Daily penalties until you achieve compliance.
- Legal action – HOAs have legal mechanisms to enforce the rules.
- Resale issues – Unapproved structures can complicate future home sales.
“Ask for forgiveness, not permission” is a failed strategy with HOAs. Richmond-area communities like Brandermill and Woodlake routinely enforce design standards and can require complete removal of non-compliant sheds.
Brandermill Community Requirements
Architectural Review Board (ARB) Process
Brandermill, one of Richmond’s largest planned communities in Midlothian, has rigorous design standards to maintain property values and neighborhood aesthetics.
Key Requirements
- Material Matching: Sheds must match the existing house in exterior finish materials and colors.
- Siding: Must be the same material profile and color as your home (vinyl, board & batten, etc.).
- Roofing: Shingles must match or complement your home’s roof color.
- Location: Typically required in the rear yard; confirm specific setbacks.
- Size: Must be proportional to lot size and the main dwelling.
Brandermill Submission Process
- Obtain Application: Download from Brandermill.com or contact the community office.
- Complete Documentation: Include all required items (see checklist below).
- Submit for Review: The ARB meets regularly to review applications.
- Administrative Approval: Simple, clearly compliant sheds may receive staff approval.
- Full Board Review: Larger or unique structures go to a full ARB meeting.
- Timeline: Plan for up to 30 days for review and response.
Required Documents:
- ✓ Completed ARB Application Form
- ✓ Plot Plan showing:
- Property boundaries.
- Existing structures (house, driveway, fences).
- Proposed shed location with setbacks measured.
- Dimensions clearly marked.
- ✓ Shed Specifications:
- Exact dimensions (e.g., 10×12, 12×20).
- Height measurements.
- Series/model information (Presidential, All-American, etc.).
- ✓ Material Specification Sheets:
- Siding type and manufacturer.
- Roofing material specifications.
- Window and door details.
- ✓ Color Swatches:
- Vinyl siding color (Almond, Clay, Sage Green, etc.).
- Shingle color (Weathered Wood, Charcoal, etc.).
- Trim color.
- ✓ Photos of Your Home:
- Front and sides showing siding and roof.
- View of the proposed shed location.
Woodlake Community Requirements
Architectural Guidelines
Woodlake, another prestigious Chesterfield County community, has requirements similar to Brandermill, but with its own specific standards and submission process.
Key Requirements
- Pre-Approval Mandatory: No structure can be erected without written ARB approval.
- Rear Yard Placement: Accessory structures must be located in the rear yard.
- Color Coordination: Colors must complement the home and surrounding properties.
- Natural Materials Preferred: Wood or materials that blend with natural surroundings.
- Setbacks: Specific distance requirements from property lines and neighboring structures.
Woodlake Submission Process
- Access the Woodlake resident portal online.
- Navigate to the ARB submission section.
- Upload all required documentation (plot plan, colors, specifications).
- Submit digitally for review.
- ARB reviews and responds within approximately 30 days.
- Address any feedback or modification requests.
- Receive written approval before installation.
Common HOA Shed Requirements Across Richmond Communities
Material & Color Matching
Nearly all Richmond-area HOAs require sheds to match or complement the home. Here’s how to stay compliant:
Vinyl Siding Homes
- Match exactly: If your home has Almond vinyl, choose Almond vinyl for your shed.
- Popular Sheds Direct colors in Richmond:
- Almond – Most popular, matches many newer homes.
- Clay – Warm tan, common in Midlothian.
- Sage Green – Trending in 2025, natural look.
- White – Classic, versatile.
- Gray – Clean, modern aesthetic.
Brick or Stone Homes
- Shed should complement the home, not match the brick/stone exactly.
- Neutral colors like Clay, Almond, or White typically work best.
- Avoid stark contrasts unless specifically justified architecturally.
Roofing
- Architectural shingles are typically preferred over metal for HOA lots.
- Match shingle color to the home: Weathered Wood, Charcoal, Pewter Gray, etc.
- Ensure the shingle brand meets HOA wind rating expectations.
Size & Placement Restrictions
| Restriction Type | Typical Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yard Placement | Rear yard only | Never in front yard; side yard rarely allowed. |
| Size Limit | 50% of main dwelling or 2,000 sq. ft. max | Varies by community; check guidelines. |
| Height | 12–15 feet maximum | Measured to ridgeline, not eave. |
| Setback from Home | 10+ feet | Often related to fire safety codes. |
| Property Line Setback | 5–10 feet | Check your specific HOA and county rules. |
We’re Your HOA Approval Partner
As Richmond’s local shed experts, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners navigate HOA approvals in Brandermill, Woodlake, Wyndham, Twin Hickory, and beyond.
- ✓ Free Color Matching Consultation – We help you select shed colors and materials that match your home exactly.
- ✓ HOA Submission Package – We provide manufacturer spec sheets, color swatches, and elevation drawings for your application.
- ✓ Plot Plan Assistance – Guidance on measuring setbacks and creating compliant plot plans.
- ✓ Pre-Approved Configurations – Library of previously approved shed configurations for major Richmond HOAs.
- ✓ ARB Communication Support – We supply technical documentation if the board has material or construction questions.
Share your address and HOA, and we’ll help you build a compliant shed plan.
Get our comprehensive HOA Approval Kit, designed specifically for Richmond-area HOAs:
- • Sheds Direct material specification sheets.
- • All available vinyl siding color swatches.
- • Architectural shingle color options.
- • Sample plot plan template.
- • Presidential & All-American series elevation drawings.
- • Warranty and construction quality documentation.
Request Your Free HOA Kit before you submit your application to the ARB.
Step-by-Step: Submitting Your HOA Application
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Review Guidelines
Obtain your community’s architectural guidelines from the HOA website, resident portal, or management office. Pay special attention to sections titled Accessory Structures, Outbuildings, or Sheds.
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Select Your Shed & Materials
Choose a Sheds Direct model that fits your needs and lot size. Work with Evergreen Sheds to select siding and roofing that match your home. Order physical color samples if needed to compare against your house in natural light.
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Create Plot Plan
Measure your property and create a scaled plot plan showing:
- • Property lines.
- • Existing structures (house, garage, fence, deck).
- • Proposed shed location.
- • Setback measurements from all sides.
- • North arrow and scale (e.g., 1″ = 10′).
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Gather Supporting Documents
Collect all required items:
- • Shed manufacturer specifications (Evergreen provides these).
- • Material samples or photos.
- • Color swatches for siding, shingles, and trim.
- • Photos of your home showing siding and roof.
- • Elevation drawings or 3D renderings, if available.
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Submit Application
Submit your complete application package to the ARB (via portal or paper, depending on community). Keep copies of everything and note the submission date to track the 30-day review period.
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Respond to Feedback
If the ARB requests modifications or additional information, respond promptly. Common requests include:
- • Different color selection.
- • Adjusted placement due to setback issues.
- • Additional landscaping buffer.
- • Slight size reduction.
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Receive Approval
Once approved, you’ll receive written confirmation. Do not install the shed before receiving written approval. Keep your approval letter permanently with your property records for future resale or refinancing.
Common HOA Rejection Reasons (and How to Avoid Them)
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1. Color Mismatch – Shed colors don’t match or complement the home.
Solution: Use exact color swatches from your home’s siding and shingles. Evergreen can help you color-match. -
2. Incomplete Application – Missing required documents or unclear drawings.
Solution: Use a full submission checklist (like the Brandermill list above) to ensure nothing is missed. -
3. Setback Violations – Shed too close to property lines or the home.
Solution: Measure carefully and add extra buffer beyond minimum requirements. -
4. Size Too Large – Shed exceeds proportion or community size limits.
Solution: Review size restrictions before selecting dimensions; consider scaling down if needed. -
5. Wrong Material – For example, T1-11 siding when vinyl is required.
Solution: Confirm allowed siding and roofing materials in HOA guidelines before ordering.
Other Richmond-Area HOA Communities
While this guide focuses on Brandermill and Woodlake, similar approval processes apply to other Richmond-area communities, including:
- Wyndham (Henrico): Prohibits visible equipment storage; strict play structure rules.
- Twin Hickory (Glen Allen): Size caps often at 50% of main dwelling floor area.
- Magnolia Green (Moseley): Distinguishes between play structures and accessory buildings.
- Kings Charter (Hanover): Fencing integration requirements for lake properties.
Contact Evergreen Sheds for community-specific guidance on your HOA’s requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still unsure how your HOA will handle your shed? Start here.
How long does HOA approval take?
Most Richmond-area HOAs review applications within 30 days of submission. Brandermill and Woodlake both follow this general timeline. If you need your shed by a specific date, submit your application as early as possible.
Can I install the shed before getting approval?
Absolutely not. Installing a shed before approval almost guarantees problems:
- Removal requirements.
- Daily fines until the violation is corrected.
- Potential legal action for non-compliance.
Always wait for written approval before installation.
What if my application is denied?
In most cases, you can revise and resubmit after addressing the ARB’s concerns. Common fixes include:
- Changing colors to better match the home.
- Relocating the shed to meet setback rules.
- Reducing the size or height of the building.
Evergreen Sheds can help you interpret the feedback and adjust your design.
Do I need county permits in addition to HOA approval?
Yes. HOA approval does not replace county permits. Your shed must meet both:
- HOA architectural standards, and
- County building and zoning requirements.
The good news: sheds under 256 sq. ft. usually don’t require building permits in most local counties, but setbacks and electrical permits still apply. See the Evergreen Permit Guide for Henrico and Chesterfield details.
Will Evergreen Sheds attend my ARB meeting?
ARB meetings are typically for homeowners only. While we don’t attend in person, we will:
- Provide all technical documentation needed for your submission.
- Be available by phone or email if the board has manufacturer-specific questions.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes based on common HOA requirements as of November 2025. Individual HOA rules vary. Always consult your specific community’s architectural guidelines and governing documents. Evergreen Sheds provides assistance but cannot guarantee HOA approval; final decisions rest with each community’s Architectural Review Board.