Covenants & Standards

Most properties in The Woodlands are governed by specific rules, known as "Covenants," which help maintain the community’s appearance and standards. These covenants were originally established by The Woodlands Community Association (WCA), The Woodlands Association (TWA) and The Woodlands Commercial Owners Association (WCOA). In 2010, responsibility for managing these covenants was transferred to The Woodlands Township as part of a governance transition, and they continue to apply to properties throughout the area today.

Deed restrictions and covenants are essentially the same thing. Both terms refer to the rules and standards set for property maintenance and improvements, helping preserve our community's look and value. These terms are often used interchangeably.

The Covenants and Standards in The Woodlands are designed to achieve several key goals, including:

  • Encouraging environmental excellence

  • Preserving the design integrity and architectural quality of homes

  • Preventing neighborhood deterioration that can result from unregulated construction and property use

  • Upholding property values

All properties in The Woodlands are subject to the Covenants and Standards; therefore, you may need to apply for a permit for any construction, placement, alteration, or repair of any temporary or permanent structure or improvement on a lot with an existing single-family dwelling. Please contact the office to discuss the repairs needed and whether or not an application is required.

Neighborhood Criteria establish more specific regulations that vary from one neighborhood to another. All improvements must also comply with the Neighborhood Criteria applicable to that lot. Owners and contractors will be required to mark the outline of the improvement(s) on-site before The Woodlands Township staff visits.

Need a quick look at what’s allowed and what’s not? Our At-a-Glance summary highlights key Covenant provisions and Standards to help guide you.

Covenants & Standards At-a-Glance

Covenants

The Woodlands Covenants

Information about Covenant Lien

Standards

Residential and Commercial Standards

   
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