There’s something for everyone at Rayburn Country!
RCA owners, potential buyers, and builders – This page is for all y’all!
Please read the overview, then scroll down for frequently asked questions.
Buyers should also read the page about the different sections in RCA.
There are also some special notes for builders here. Lot owners can use any builder of their choice.
Overview
Neither Jasper County nor Brookeland have a permitting process. Therefore, RCA does more than most HOA’s relative to the architectural approval process. The Environmental Control Committee (ECC) is made up of homeowner volunteers appointed by the board to review permits and ensure compliance with deed restrictions.
In an effort to get more information out to potential buyers, builders, and existing homeowners, the RCA adopted the Building Permit Process Guidelines to work on clarifying the application process and guidelines for building in RCA.
The ECC will review your permit application, and if a permit is granted, they will continue to track your building progress to make sure it is consistent with the plans you submitted and on track for completion within 12 months. Due to supply chain and labor issues, the ECC has extended the six-month completion requirement stated in the deed restrictions to 12 months for all projects. Please understand that extensions beyond 12 months are only granted in extreme circumstances; plan your project accordingly.
Please allow at least 30 days for the processing of your permit application and note that a professional survey is required for all standard permit applications; pin marking is not sufficient.
Request a Meeting with the Environmental Control Committee:
Have a project or property improvement in mind? Our Environmental Control Committee is here to help. HOA members can easily request a meeting by completing our simple form—then email it to us or drop it off at the HOA office. Share a few details about your plans, and we’ll follow up to schedule a time that works for you. We look forward to supporting your vision for your home!
Need ECC assistance? Check the official guidelines here.
Do I need a permit? YES.
A permit is required for nearly all exterior changes or additions to your property including:
- Land Clearing
- New Builds
- Mobile Homes*
- Shop or Garage
- Carports
- Sheds/Other Buildings
- Patios & Decks
- Driveways
- Fences or Retaining Walls
- Reroofing / Repainting
- Propane Tanks and Generators
- Pools
- Anything involving pouring cement
*only allowed in some sections
Click the titles for more details:
BUILDING FAQs and other tips about building in RCA.
SECTION COMPARISON CHART includes the minimum square feet required for new builds, water & sewer information, which sections include lots on the lake or golf course.
ABOUT THE PERMIT APPLICATION gives you details about how to ensure your application is complete.
10 EASY STEPS – This page gives you an overview of the process you can print as a guide
STANDARD PERMIT APPLICATION for new builds and any project requiring cement, including fences, patios, etc.
Before You Submit
Make sure your permit application is complete by reviewing our quick, RCA ECC CHECKLIST.
If your project plans have changed, simply submit a PERMIT CHANGE REQUEST. The ECC will review the revisions and help keep your project moving smoothly.
LIMITED PERMIT APPLICATION
for repainting, reroofing, or other small projects that do not require cement to be poured
LAND CLEARING PERMIT for clearing underbrush and trees
IN KIND/SAME AS PERMIT APPLICATION for work or repairs that is “replacement in kind” or “same as” materials
Some important notes:
If you will be installing a septic system, you will also need to get a permit from the Angelina and Neches River Authority.
If you are adjacent to the lake, be sure you understand where the 179 line is on your lot and the restrictions related to what you can build below the line. If you have questions about this, please contact the US Army Corps of Engineers.