The ability of a homeowner (condominium or townhouse) to combine two or more units or lots (i.e. join them together with doorways, stairs etc.) will be determined by: (1) the local building and planning codes and (2) the alteration provisions contained in the CC&Rs. In most cases, the homeowners will need to get the approval of the HOA and a building permit from a governmental agency. The ability of a homeowner to legally combine two or more units or lots (i.e. make them into a single unit or lot) will be determined by specific CC&R provisions relating to unit or lot combinations, or changing boundaries. However, even if the CC&R requirements can be satisfied, combining two or more units or lots will generally require a licensed surveyor to prepare and record an amendment to the recorded map or plan, and the approval by each and every homeowner and their mortgage lender.