A: Not necessarily, says Bellingham attorney Philip Buri of Buri Funston Mumford. But that's not because your HOA is overstepping its authority. In buying into HOA-governed communities, homeowners agree to abide by the HOA rules. A very common one, Buri says, involves exterior uniformity. Having an architectural committee weigh in on all proposed changes is the usual way to ensure and protect that.

"The idea is everyone's property values increase if the homes look compatible, although they don't have to be identical," he explains.

While HOA boards are elected, committees usually are board-appointed. So your board is the ultimate arbiter.
"You want to see if there's a way to appeal to the full board," Buri says.