John D. Rockefeller, Jr. instituted protective covenants that are included in the deeds of all Forest Hill homes. FHHO is empowered to enforce these deed provisions to honor the original intent of the Rockefeller family's plan for Forest Hill to be a residential community whose high standards are guarded by well-chosen restrictions designed to preserve and enhance property values.  The covenants govern architectural standards, maintenance and use of Forest Hill homes and other important considerations.  Every Forest Hill homeowner is both bound and protected by the covenants. [View a .PDF of the deed restrictions.]

In accordance with our code of regulations, our board of trustees maintains a standards committee to review all new construction and proposed exterior alterations or additions to properties in Forest Hill that require approval of the association.   In addition, drawing on the expertise of qualified individuals in housing construction, property maintenance and historic preservation, the committee assists Forest Hill residents in making informed choices that will maintain the architectural integrity and value of their homes.  The committee identifies products, manufacturers and suppliers that best match the type of housing in our neighborhood.  Committee members collaborate with homeowners or their contractors so that new construction and exterior alterations or additions appropriately suit our community of distinctive homes.

Because the deed restrictions are more general in nature, the standards committee has developed a set of "preservation guidelines and policy bulletins" that regulate new construction and alterations or additions with greater specificity.  [View a .PDF of the guidelines and bulletins.]  Copies of the bulletins are also available by calling our office at 216-932-8952.  There are bulletins for:

• Storage Sheds/Unattached Structures
• Roofing/Gutters/Downspouts
• Fences
• Exterior Alterations/Additions/Decks/Colors
• Satellite Dishes
• Windows
• Siding
• Entry Doors/Garage Doors

The criteria listed in each bulletin will serve as guidelines for the homeowner or contractor and the standards committee when either planning or reviewing an application for new construction and exterior alterations or additions.

You must obtain the standard committee's approval if you plan to make exterior alterations or additions that will alter the original architectural design of your home or lot plan or when the use of materials and installations will depart from those originally used for the home.  Specifically, approval is required for:

• Fence replacement or installation
• Window replacement
• Roof replacement
• Siding replacement or installation
• Deck additions and patio enclosures
• Room additions and shed installation
• Other exterior alterations and embellishments

Generally, free-standing satellite dishes and sheds are not permitted.

All exterior alterations to "Rockefeller homes" listed on the National Register of Historic Places require the written approval of the standards committee, other than repairs and maintenance that are consistent with the original design, materials and workmanship of the home.

You may obtain an application for exterior additions and alterations by calling us at 216-932-8952.  If we don't answer, please leave a message and we will get back to you.  You should obtain FHHO approval before beginning work on a project to avoid delays and complications.  Please keep in mind that our review and approval is in addition to and independent of a city permit.

We will take into account the intent of your proposal and will also consider the counsel of our resident architect, building contractor, roofing consultant, preservationist, or landscape consultant.  We will review your application as quickly as possible and notify you once a decision has been made.