Architectural Approvals and Denials

We are in a new HOA community and I am now on the board. Recently we put in for approval to replace our front door (painted same color - just had glass inserts). We received an approval that it was approved by the architectural committee, then 10 days later we received a denial that they changed their mind. Is this legal? We paid almost $1000 for this door and do not want to take it down! Any suggestions? I'm in Arizona if that helps.

Record the original approval letter with the county recorder. That way it will never get lost.

First, I hope all of this (the request and the approval) was in writing. If it was verbal, then there is the issue of you and they misunderstanding what was said.

Although I agree with what Mark is saying, using that approach will likely put everyone on the defensive.

I would recommend that you approach the Board and tell them that you are not sure of the procedures that may have been violated that is causing this reaction. You had properly requested approval and, after the work is done, being told that the approval is withdrawn. Explain that you are certainly willing to comply with the Assocaitions request once the issue of how you will be recovering the damages you incurred due to the actions of the Association. Then wait for their response.

While waiting, start interviewing attorneys as this issue may still end up before a court or in mediation/arbitration.

The question is: "What happened between the approval and the reversal?"
If you went out and bought the door and had it installed, then you had every right to rely on the approval.
However, if you didn't buy til after they reversed, then it's on you because you knew of the reversal before you bought.