A buyer-friendly guide to exterior modifications, landscaping, patios, pergolas, fencing, fire features, garage changes, lighting and other home improvements at Lincoln Prairie.
Lincoln Prairie's Design Guidelines establish standards for the exterior appearance, landscaping and improvements throughout the community.
The guidelines address the design, location, materials, colors and construction of exterior improvements so changes remain consistent with the community's overall architectural character.
For buyers, these rules are important because many seemingly simple projects — such as enlarging landscaping, installing a patio, adding lighting or changing a door color — may require advance approval.
This guide is based on the Lincoln Prairie Community Association Design Guidelines revised February 27, 2026. Design standards and approval procedures can change, so homeowners should always verify the latest requirements before beginning a project.
Exterior modifications generally need to be reviewed before work begins. Approval from the association and approval from the City of Aurora are separate requirements.
Clearly describe the proposed work and gather drawings, photographs, product information and a Plat of Survey when required.
Use the current Lincoln Prairie architectural application and submit the requested project documentation.
The Modifications Committee reviews the request and may approve it, approve it with conditions or deny the request.
Some projects also require City of Aurora permits. Association approval does not guarantee municipal approval.
Lincoln Prairie landscaping standards are designed to protect view corridors, drainage and the appearance of the community.
Rear and side yard plantings added by homeowners are generally the homeowner's responsibility to maintain.
The guidelines regulate the depth and placement of rear foundation and side-yard planting beds and may require a modification application.
Homeowner-added trees must be located within permitted areas and positioned with future growth, foundations, patios and decks in mind.
Landscaping and hardscape changes may not interfere with established drainage patterns, swales or neighboring property.
Patios and decks are addressed in the Design Guidelines and should be reviewed before construction or alteration.
Visible homeowner-installed fencing is listed among prohibited structures unless the fencing was installed by the developer.
Invisible pet fencing may be installed in the backyard subject to the community's location, burial and maintenance requirements.
The Design Guidelines prohibit dog runs and do not allow temporary or permanent pet confinement on patios or decks.
Homeowners remain responsible for supervising and controlling their pets even when invisible fencing is installed.
Lincoln Prairie allows certain outdoor structures, but their size, location, materials and appearance are controlled.
Pergolas are specifically addressed in the Design Guidelines and must comply with community construction, location and shade requirements.
Trellises used near patios or decks must remain open in design and are intended to support plant growth rather than act as solid privacy fencing.
Arbors may be permitted in the rear private area subject to size, materials, structural and planting requirements.
Seasonal gazebos are temporary structures and may only remain in place during the seasonal period permitted by the guidelines.
Fire tables are limited to approved fuels such as propane, natural gas or gel fuel.
Wood-burning fire pits, fireplaces, chimineas and similar open-flame devices are prohibited.
Approved fire tables must be located in the rear private area on an approved patio or deck and comply with required separation distances.
Fire tables must also comply with applicable City of Aurora fire and permitting requirements.
Outdoor fixtures are generally expected to use approved coach-style designs in black or dark bronze, with specific exceptions for security lighting.
Landscape lighting may be permitted but requires appropriate placement and shielding so it does not create a nuisance for neighboring homes.
A lighting layout identifying fixtures and locations may need to be submitted to the Modifications Committee.
The guidelines restrict themed or flashing exterior lighting outside of permitted seasonal or holiday uses.
Changes to landscaping, patios and hardscaping must preserve the community's drainage patterns and cannot create drainage problems for neighboring homes or common areas.
The Design Guidelines specifically prohibit a number of exterior items. This is not an exhaustive list, and homeowners should verify the current rules before purchasing or beginning a project.
One of the biggest reasons to review Lincoln Prairie's Design Guidelines before purchasing is that they may affect how you intend to use the property after closing.
A buyer who wants a traditional backyard fence, permanent swimming pool, storage shed or wood-burning fire pit should understand that those items are restricted under the current guidelines.
On the other hand, many projects — including landscaping changes, patios, pergolas, lighting, invisible pet fencing and certain outdoor living improvements — may be possible when designed in accordance with community standards and approved in advance.
When I work with a buyer in Lincoln Prairie, I recommend evaluating not only the home's floor plan and condition, but also the lot, drainage, existing landscaping and whether the buyer's future plans are compatible with the association guidelines.
Lincoln Prairie Buyer GuideReturn to the community hub for homes, amenities, lifestyle and real estate information.
Community guide →Review age requirements, guests, pools, pets, parking and everyday community rules.
Rules guide →Understand association services, assessments and homeowner responsibilities.
HOA guide →Compare the ranch-style floor plans available within Lincoln Prairie.
Floor plans →View available resale and new-construction homes in Lincoln Prairie.
View homes →Explore The Lincoln Club, pools, fitness center, pickleball, tennis and bocce.
Amenities guide →If you're considering a home in Lincoln Prairie, I can help you look beyond the floor plan and evaluate lot location, exterior options, resale considerations and how the community guidelines may affect your plans for the property.
View Homes for Sale Lincoln Prairie Buyer GuideThis page is an independent real estate summary provided for general informational purposes and is not the official Lincoln Prairie Design Guidelines. Design standards, application requirements, fees and interpretations may change. Homeowners and buyers should review the current governing documents and obtain required approvals from the Lincoln Prairie Community Association and applicable governmental authorities before beginning any project. Colleen Dahlstrom and HomeSmart Realty Group are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Del Webb, PulteGroup or the Lincoln Prairie Community Association.