Covenant Administration

Covenant Administration helps maintain community standards by assisting residents with exterior home improvement projects and ensuring compliance with The Woodlands Covenants and Standards. Staff review applications, issue permits, and address potential code violations. They work closely with the Residential Design Review Committees (RDRCs), elected resident volunteers who help preserve the character of each village, and also support the Development Standards Committee (DSC), which oversees commercial projects and complex requests.

Covenant Administration provides the following services: 

  • Deed restriction administration and enforcement. This includes the monitoring and enforcement of Residential & Commercial Covenants on properties for violations.
  • Staff support for nine village Residential Design Review Committees (RDRC’s). Our supervisors and team Specialists prepare applications for improvements to present to the RDRC Committees.
  • Staff support for Development Standards Committee, which hears requests for variances or appeals to RDRC decisions and review of Commercial applications.
  • Staff support for all incoming applications and technical review.
  • Maintenance of all property records.

Please note: All residential and commercial permit applications must be submitted online through our Civic Access Portal. Certain permits that require additional processing may have fees. Fees must be paid by credit card or e-check; cash is no longer accepted.

Permitting Portal (Civic Access)

Residents and contractors can use our Civic Access Portal, The Woodlands Township’s online permitting system, to submit permit applications, search public records, pay invoices and explore activity in their neighborhood. You must first register for an account through the Civic Access Portal before applying for a permit.

Open Civic Access Portal

Need assistance? Read or print our step-by-step guide on how to register and apply through our Civic Access Portal. 

Contractor note: If a contractor is submitting an application on behalf of a property owner, the owner must first register for an account before the application can be completed.

Permitting Process

The Covenants and Standards, which apply to all properties in The Woodlands, require that the placement, construction, alteration or repair of any temporary or permanent structure or improvement on a lot with an existing single family dwelling must have the prior written approval of the Residential Design Review Committee or their designated staff.

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Covenants & Standards

Most properties in The Woodlands are governed by Covenants and Standards that preserve the community’s character, design integrity and property values. These rules guide improvements and may require permits. Explore more or contact us before starting a project.

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Residential Design Review Committees

Each village in The Woodlands has a Residential Design Review Committee (RDRC) made up of at least three resident volunteers elected annually by their village. These committees meet monthly to review and approve applications for exterior home modifications, providing a valuable resident perspective in maintaining neighborhood standards.

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Development Standards Committee

The Development Standards Committee (DSC) adopts and enforces standards for property use and maintenance in The Woodlands. Made up of four Township-appointed residents and three appointees from The Woodlands Development Company, the DSC reviews improvements for existing commercial properties and is the only committee authorized to grant variances. Initial construction on undeveloped land is reviewed by the property developer, not the DSC or the Township Board.

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Compliance & Violations

The Township’s Covenant Administration Department oversees property compliance based on community Covenants and Standards. While The Woodlands does not enforce ordinances, concerns about potential violations can be reported through the 311 portal.

Report a Violation

Short Term Rentals

Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are allowed in The Woodlands with prior approval. Property owners must apply through the Township and follow all Covenants and Standards.

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Commercial Standards

Commercial properties in The Woodlands must follow established planning and design standards that ensure quality development and preserve community character. All exterior improvements require prior review and approval.

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Community Revitalization Program

The Community Revitalization Program supports vibrant neighborhoods through property maintenance, assistance for qualifying residents, and local events that connect the community with Township services and public safety partners.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about The Woodlands Township Covenant Administration Department, including the permitting process, property standards, compliance, and how to get help with your home improvement projects.

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Department Director

Kimberly McKenna 2025c.jpg

Kim McKenna

Kim McKenna serves as the Director of Covenant Administration, overseeing permitting and compliance for roughly 120,000 residents and 2,100 commercial businesses. She leads a team that ensures a balance between deed restriction enforcement and property improvement. With over 30 years’ experience, she has an unwavering commitment to preserving the vision and standards that define The Woodlands.

Apply for a Permit

Civic Access is The Woodlands Township’s online permitting portal where you can apply for permits. You must register for an account before submitting an application.

Open Civic Access

Contact Us

The Woodlands Township
Town Hall

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.  
The Woodlands, TX 77381
281-210-3800

 

Kimberly McKenna
Director of Covenant Administration
281-210-3856
Email Kimberly McKenna


Devon Jorden
Covenant Administration Manager
281-210-3871
Email Devon Jorden

Contact Devon Jorden for All Residential Planning and Permitting Matters

 

Neslihan Tesno
Covenant Administration Manager
281-210-3875
Email Neslihan Tesno

Contact Neslihan Tesno for All Residential Compliance and Revitalization Matters

 

Kathleen Eaton
Covenant Administration Supervisor 
281-210-3915
Email Kathleen Eaton

Contact Kathleen Eaton for All Commercial Matters

 

General inquiries are handled during normal business hours, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

Resources

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