Understanding HOA Rules in Oakville: Fencing, Sheds & Parking

Thinking about adding a fence, setting a backyard shed, or parking an RV at your Oakville home? These simple upgrades can run into roadblocks if you miss a rule. You want to improve your property without fines or delays, and you want clear answers. This guide explains how your HOA and St. Louis County work together on fences, sheds, and parking, plus the exact steps to stay compliant. Let’s dive in.

HOA vs. county rules in Oakville

Your HOA and St. Louis County both have authority, and you must satisfy both. HOA covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) are private rules that attach to the property and are usually enforceable in court if they do not conflict with the law. For a plain‑English overview of how CC&Rs work and are enforced, see this resource on HOA covenants and enforcement from Nolo: how CC&Rs and HOA enforcement work.

St. Louis County separately enforces building, zoning and property‑maintenance codes. County approval does not override your HOA, and HOA approval does not replace county permits. Review the county’s summary of when permits are needed for fences and accessory structures here: St. Louis County building and permitting guidance.

Two approvals, two tracks

• HOA approval: Your CC&Rs often require written architectural review committee (ARC) approval before exterior changes. Many associations spell out application requirements like surveys, drawings and material samples. See a typical ARC submission example to understand what to expect: typical ARC application requirements.
• County permits: If your project meets a county threshold, you may also need a permit. Many HOAs will ask you to submit copies of your county permit with your ARC request. A good example of this “both approvals” approach is here: ARC approval is in addition to government permits.

Fence basics in Oakville HOAs

HOAs commonly regulate fence height, style, material and location. Many require rear‑yard placement and limit front‑yard fences. Chain link is often restricted. Expect color or stain standards in some communities.

St. Louis County generally exempts residential fences 6 feet or less from a building permit. Pool fences and fences over 6 feet typically require a permit, and corner lots must maintain visibility in the sight triangle. The county also requires fences be kept safe and in good repair. Review the county’s ordinance guidebook summary: fence height, visibility and maintenance basics.

Quick takeaways: get ARC approval first, confirm whether a permit is needed for height or pool safety, and keep the fence on your property and out of sight triangles.

Sheds and accessory structures

County guidance often exempts small storage sheds under about 120 square feet from a building permit. Larger sheds, or sheds with utilities or foundations, usually need permits and plans. Start with the county’s thresholds here: county accessory structure and shed thresholds.

HOAs tend to be stricter than the county. Common rules include rear‑yard placement, size limits, finished materials, and matching the home’s appearance. Many ARCs want a lot survey and drawings with your application, which you can see in this example of typical ARC submission items. If a shed sits on a utility easement, utilities may have the right to remove it later. Communities often call this out, as seen in examples of ARC guidance on easements and visibility.

Parking, RVs and visible storage

Most HOAs restrict overnight street parking and visible storage of RVs, boats, and trailers. Many also limit commercial vehicles or vehicles with exposed equipment. For a feel of how such rules are commonly written, see this example of HOA parking and vehicle restrictions.

St. Louis County and local municipalities also regulate vehicles. Property‑maintenance codes commonly prohibit inoperable or unlicensed vehicles and may restrict parking on lawns. Driveway and street rules can vary by municipality. The county’s guidance explains these public‑law basics: county property maintenance and vehicle rules.

Step‑by‑step checklist for Oakville homeowners

1. Gather your plat and survey. Know property lines and any easements. Many ARCs require a lot plan with your application. See a typical request list here: what ARCs ask you to submit.

2. Read your HOA documents. Highlight sections on fences, outbuildings, vehicles and ARC procedures. For an overview of what is in CC&Rs, see how CC&Rs and HOA enforcement work.

3. Apply to the ARC. Include drawings, materials, color samples, survey and timeline. Wait for written approval before starting work.

4. Confirm county requirements. Check if your fence or shed needs a permit, and verify any setback or height limits. Start with the county’s permit thresholds for fences and sheds and the fence visibility and maintenance guidance.

5. Provide permit copies to your HOA. Many ARCs require permit numbers or approved plans, as shown in this example: ARC approval plus permits.

6. Keep records. Save applications, approvals, permits, inspections and receipts in one folder. Documentation can help if questions arise later.

7. Talk to neighbors. A quick conversation before you place a fence along a shared line can prevent disputes and delays.

Hot‑button scenarios to plan for

• Replacing a fence in the same spot: County rules may treat a like‑for‑like replacement differently from a new fence, but your HOA may still require ARC notice. Check the county’s permit basics and your ARC rules first.
• Sheds visible from the street: Many HOAs limit front‑yard placement or require screening. Review ARC guidance and easement notes such as this architecture review example.
• RVs and short‑term parking: HOAs often allow brief loading or cleaning but restrict overnight storage. See sample HOA parking limits.
• Trees and sightlines: If vegetation affects fence placement or sight triangles, county maintenance and safety rules apply. Review the county ordinance guidebook.

If a dispute comes up

Start with your HOA’s process. Most CC&Rs outline notices, cure periods, hearings and appeals. For a plain explanation of typical HOA enforcement tools and owner rights, review Nolo’s overview of CC&Rs and enforcement.

If the county cites a violation, follow the appeal instructions on the notice. The county guidebook summarizes what inspectors look for and how appeals work: county ordinance and code compliance basics. For a deeper dive into practical enforcement pitfalls and legal options, this resource outlines common HOA enforcement processes and risks.

Buying or selling a home in an HOA

If you are buying, ask for CC&Rs, ARC guidelines, and recent ARC decisions so you know what is allowed for fences, sheds and vehicle storage. If you are selling, gather documentation for any past approvals and permits. Clear, organized records help buyers feel confident and can prevent last‑minute issues with appraisals or inspections.

If you want a local guide who will help you review HOA documents, spot red flags, and coordinate next steps with county offices, reach out to Lexi Engelbach for low‑stress, responsive support.

FAQs

Can an Oakville HOA block my fence even if the county would allow it?

• Yes. You usually need both ARC approval and any required county permits. A county permit does not override valid HOA CC&Rs. See this overview of how CC&Rs and HOA enforcement work.

Do I need a permit for a 10-by-8 shed in Oakville?

• County guidance often exempts detached sheds under about 120 square feet, but larger sheds or those with utilities or foundations usually need permits. Confirm with the county, then submit to your ARC. See the county’s shed thresholds.

What can an HOA do if I build without ARC approval?

• HOAs commonly use notices, fines, suspension of privileges and, in some cases, legal action to compel compliance. Learn the basics in this CC&R enforcement overview.

Are RVs or boats allowed in my Oakville driveway?

• Many HOAs restrict visible storage of RVs and boats or limit overnight parking. County and municipal rules may also apply to on‑street parking. See sample HOA parking restrictions.