What is the Wilde Lake Village Covenants?
The Covenants is a legal, binding contract between Wilde Lake property owners and Wilde Lake Community Association. The purpose of the Covenants is to ensure minimum property maintenance and design standards. Owners agree to maintain their property on a regular basis and to seek Architectural Committee approval for any changes to the exterior of the property.

What are the Wilde Lake Architectural Guidelines?
The guidelines, based on the covenants, are written by the Architectural Committee to assist residents in preparing an Application for Exterior Alteration. Copies are available at the Slayton House or click here to view.

What do I need to do to get Architectural Committee approval for changes to my property?
You should complete an Application for Exterior Alteration. The application can be picked up at the front desk at Slayton House or click here to download it. Completed applications should be delivered or mailed to Slayton House. Incomplete applications will be returned.

What information do I need to submit with the application?
Specific requirements vary by project, but generally applications should include a site plan, description of materials, color samples and drawings (including dimensions). Please refer to the Architectural Guidelines for the type of project you are proposing.

When are application deadlines? and When are RAC meetings?
Application deadlines coincide with RAC meeting dates. Generally, applications are due two weeks before the RAC meeting review date. The Resident Architectural Committee meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 7:30pm at Slayton House and meetings are open to the public. Click here to view a complete application deadline and meeting schedule. Check the Resident Architectural Committee (RAC) page for the agenda for the next meeting. The agenda is also posted at Slayton House, on the Wilde Lake e-newsletter and published in the Columbia Flier.

How long does it take to get Architectural Committee approval? and What is the process?
For most applications, the time from submission to approval is 3-4 weeks. All applications are reviewed by the Resident Architectural Committee (RAC) which acts as an advisory committee to the Wilde Lake Architectural Committee. At the RAC meeting, a recommendation is made on each application to approve as submitted, approve as modified, disapprove or table. The recommendation is sent to the AC Liaison who makes the final determination.

How will I know if my application is approved?
It is recommended that residents attend the RAC meeting at which their application will be reviewed. Attendance helps prevent delays if the committee has questions. Also, by attending the meeting, you will know what the RAC will recommend to the AC. The AC Liaison is required to make a final determination within five (5) business days of the RAC recommendation. The Covenant Advisor will mail you a letter stating the final decision along with a copy of the application for your records.

What happens if I proceed with my project before getting Architectural Committee approval?
The Covenants require that applications are submitted to and approved by the Architectural Committee prior to begin any project. Projects started before obtaining AC approval are in violation of the covenants and done at residents’ own risk.

Can I appeal if my application is disapproved?
Any applicant may, within ten (10) days of receipt of notice of adverse decision (disapproval or approval with modification), file a written request to have the matter reviewed by the entire Architectural Committee. A hearing will be set during a regularly scheduled AC meeting. The decision of the majority of the AC will be final and binding.

Do I need to submit an application for repairs/replacement?
Simple repairs don't usually need Architectural Committee approval. However, if repair projects will involve a change in color, materials, style or then you must apply for Architectural Committee approval.

Do I need approval to remove a tree from my property?
Removal of trees with a diameter of six (6) inches or more requires approval from Columbia Association. Contact Tom Taylor, CA Open Space, at 410/381-0511.

Do I need approval to run a business from my home?
Architectural Committee approval is required if you plan to conduct a business from your home. Please refer to the In-Home Businesses section of the Wilde Lake Architectural Guidelines for applications requirements. The Application for In-Home Business can be obtained at Slayton House or click here to download.

What is a Letter of Compliance?
A Letter of Compliance is a letter from the Covenant Advisor stating that the property has been inspected and the exterior of the property is free from any maintenance issues and all exterior alterations have been approved by the Architectural Committee. It is strongly recommended that buyers request that the seller provide them with a Letter of Compliance prior to settlement. Click here for a Request for Letter of Compliance form.

How do I report a possible covenant violation?
You may contact the Village Covenant Advisor by phone, by e-mail at wlcovenantadvisor@columbiavillages.org or in person. All covenant inquiries will be handled anonymously.

Who should I contact if have questions about the covenants, guidelines and application process?
The Village Covenant Advisor can be reached by phone at 410/730-3987 (ext. 18) or by e-mail at wlcovenantadvisor@columbiavillages.org. If you wish to speak with the Covenant Advisor in person, please call ahead to ensure her availability.