[CaptJohn]

As a former Chairman of an Architectural Review Committee of an island community, I can tell you the most important thing to remember is that the homeowner is always responsible for the actions on the property. I would suggest that if you're a new owner to be sure and obtain your subdivision restrictions at the closing and then BE SURE TO READ THEM. If you're a long time owner, read them!
In most cases, they will list things you can and cannot do but the part many miss is that just because something specific is not named does not mean you can avoid the permitting process. There is always a catch-all phrase included. If you have any questions, call the ARC for clarification. They will usually try to help if you approach them before a project rather than trying to fix a problem after.
Another thing is to NOT trust your contractor if he says he's obtained a permit as part of the particular project you've hired him to do. If he says it's included and he will obtain the permit, insist you see the APPROVED permit BEFORE you let him start work. ARC are usually hard working and under appreciated and catch a lot of flack from novices who are not familiar with the process. Just do your due diligence. That committee is the reason TV is such a nice place.