What is the process used by historic preservation commissions to preserve the historic integrity of landmarks and properties in historic districts?
When a property owner wishes to alter the exterior of a building, demolish a building, or engage in new construction or relocation of structures, the property owner must make an application for a permit (also referred to as a Certificate of Appropriateness or COA). Some “normal maintenance” or “routine repairs” that do not involve a change in design, material, or appearance may be excluded by an ordinance or involve only routine approval by a commission. Check with your local historic preservation commission to see how they handle routine maintenance and repairs. Work performed without a COA can result in fines and/or removal or reversal of unauthorized alterations. There are provisions for appeal from an unfavorable decision and provisions regarding hardship cases. However, experienced preservation commissions generally seek to provide suggestions or give alternatives whenever possible to avoid an outright denial of a COA.
Related Questions
- What is the process used by historic preservation commissions to preserve the historic integrity of landmarks and properties in historic districts?
- Is the National Register of Historic Places different from local Landmarks or Districts?
- Does the process require the preservation of all historic properties?
