Steps for completing major modifications of structures located in Historic Districts

1. Prepare Application

Major modifications.
Most of the major modifications to the exterior of your structure must be reviewed by the Landmark Commission. The Landmark Commission has delegated the power to the Secretary of the Landmark Commission to approve a few of the major modifications. Call 333-3670 for assistance.

Major modifications reviewed by the Landmark Commission.
Proposed major modifications that must be reviewed by the Landmark Commission are as follows:

• Construction or removal of a building, addition, accessory structure, porch, deck, or patio
• Construction or removal of decorative details such as chimneys, latticework, gables, gingerbread, soffits and shutters
• Construction or removal of door and window openings
• Major repairs of exterior surfaces such as abrasive cleaning, siding or painting of unpainted surfaces
• Signage
• Changes to interior spaces of significant structures which are open to the public

Major modifications reviewed by the Secretary to the Landmark Commission.
Major modifications that the Landmarks Commission has given the Secretary of the Landmarks Commission the power to review are:

• Fences, glass blocks in basement windows, decks and patios, replacement windows, and siding.

2. File Application

Application.
In order to file an application for major modification you must provide site plans, floor plans, building elevations, detailed sections, streetscape elevation, and specifications. Completed application and plans must be submitted to the Department of Planning and Community Development on the sixth floor of City Hall.

3. Review By The Landmark Commission

Review by the Landmark Commission.
The application is scheduled and presented at the Landmark Commission hearing within 30 days after the application is received. Hearings are held on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month at 3:00 P.M. The Landmark Commission can approve the proposal, deny the proposal, or approve the proposal subject to modifications agreed upon by the applicant. The Landmark Commission shall render its decision in writing not more than seven days after the decision. If the proposal is approved by the Landmark Commission, a Major Certificate of Appropriateness is sent to the applicant.

Approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness.
A copy of the approved drawings, along with a copy of the Certificate of Appropriateness, is sent to the Division of Zoning Administration in the Department of Building Services. If the Board’s decision is favorable, the Zoning Plan Examiner will continue to process the permit application. Remember, all construction and demolitions require building and zoning permits.

4. Inspection

Inspection for compliance with the Landmark Decision.
The placard that accompanies the Certificate of Appropriateness must be displayed in the front window of the structure when work is performed. An inspector from the Division of Housing Inspection checks to see if the placard is displayed and that the work described in the Certificate is being performed correctly.