[villagetinker]

If you go to Sumter County Building department, Pinellas Plaza, the copper topped building, they can give you your house plans that will include the plot plan (or plat plan). This will have the build lines, and the easements. Once you have these, you can go to ARC and ask your questions. You will need these drawings to show your intentions to get ARC approval.
IMHO, when you decide to go forward, be sure that either you or your contractor get ARC approval, make sure YOUR email address is on the form, then you will get an email confirmation of approval (or disapproval), and tyou can download the form for your records. Do NOT get ANY permits yourself, these must be through your contractor, and be sure to a get a letter/form that ALL/ANY liens have been removed before you make final payment.
Good luck with your project, by the way neighbors across the street did exactly what you are planning.