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1. Are you planning to build a structure in Old Town?

Please note that all new construction (buildings, accessory buildings, fences, other structures) visible from the public street requires a Certificate of Appropriateness (PDF) prior to permits being issued. A Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) is issued by the Historic Preservation Commission based on the proposed structure's compatibility with the historic district. 

A Certificate of Appropriateness is also required for exterior modifications and additions to contributing structures. Review external modifications frequently asked questions for more information.

2. Do I need a Certificate of Appropriateness?

All new visible construction within Old Town requires a Certificate of Appropriateness (PDF) from the Historic Preservation Commission. New construction is subject to the architectural guidelines in the Old Town Master Plan and the standards of the SmartCode. Fences are considered new construction and therefore require a Certificate of Appropriateness, with the exception of certain fence types in the OT-3 district. Exterior changes to contributing structures, including new doors, window shutters, awnings, and railings, also require HPC approval.

Paint colors should be chosen from the approved list of Historically Appropriate Paint Colors (PDF). This list is provided by Benjamin Moore, but other brands may be used provided they match the approved list.

Changes That Do Not Require Historic Preservation Commission Approval

• Exterior changes to non-contributing structures
• Small, minor building or construction not visible to the public eye
• Fences meeting pre-approved material and height specifications on properties within the OT-3 district
• Temporary construction trailers for the use of on-site material storage during construction
• Changes in paint color
  • Paint colors should be chosen from the approved list of Historically Appropriate Paint Colors (PDF)
    • This list is provided by Benjamin Moore, but other brands may be used provided they match the approved list
• Ordinary maintenance and repair that does not involve changes in dimension, material, configuration, or outward appearance
• Work that is required for a property to come into compliance with federal and state laws pertaining to persons with disabilities

3. How do I obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness?

All applications and fees can be found on the planning applications page. Please contact the Planning Division with any questions, or when you are ready to submit. Meetings occur monthly, and complete applications are due no later than one week prior to the meeting. Projects are subject to both the SmartCode and the Architectural Design Standards.

4. What if I make changes to the plans during construction, after the Certificate of Appropriateness has been granted?

It is imperative that new construction matches approved plans precisely. Any desired changes or modifications to the approved plans require Historic Preservation Commission re-review prior to the change being made. Any changes made without an amended Certificate of Appropriateness are considered violations of City code. Structures that do not match the approved plans will not pass final inspections and therefore no Certificate of Occupancy shall be granted.

If unforeseen circumstances require that your approved plans be modified in any way, contact Planning staff immediately to be placed on an upcoming agenda. Do not proceed without an amended Certificate of Appropriateness.