You can use the City's Historic District Map or our GIS. 

There are three different levels of review for projects located within one of the City’s historic districts. Some projects, like routine maintenance require no review, other minor changes may only require staff review but substantive changes will likely require review by the HARB. In general, if you are considering alterations, including design, material, pattern or arrangement, visible from the street HARB review will be required. For specific information please review the Historic District Guidelines.

In general cost is not a factor the HARB considers. However, the HARB has developed a list of alternate materials for certain types of projects that can save on costs.

Any building or structure that is in any of the three Historic Districts that proposes an erection, reconstruction, alteration, restoration, demolition, or razing which will affect the exterior historic or architectural features that are visible from a public right-of-way will be required to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness. Contact the Planning Office prior to beginning your project. You can also consult our Design Guidelines (Directrices Para Distritos Historicos), pages 8-9.

Depending on the project scope, the level of review required, and how complete the application is, timing can vary. However, a decision is required to be issued within 75 days.

You can use the Certificate of Appropriateness Review Flowchart to see how your application will be reviewed.

The purpose of the HARB is to make recommendations to City Council. City Council will make their decision based on HARB recommendations. When making recommendations to City Council, the HARB wants to make sure that any alterations do not permanently alter or detrimentally impact the historic fabric of the property. When reviewing a case, HARB considers the goals the property owner is trying to accomplish and the unique circumstances of each case.

Staff will provide the HARB with all your application materials including drawings, material samples and photos.

While this isn’t required, we highly recommend it. Having a professional available means any design questions or concerns can be addressed at the meeting and prevent unnecessary delays.

The HARB only regulates color when it is integral to the product such as shingles or siding. If your building is already painted, paint color is not regulated but the HARB is happy to provide appropriate suggestions.

Painting is a critical part of routine maintenance and is often a cost-effective way to enhance your property value. If your property is already painted, there is no need for an approval. However, painting brick or other masonry may not be appropriate and can often cause damage so a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) will need to be submitted. Remember lead-based paint may be present and can cause severe health problems if not properly abated. Always contact a professional prior to disturbing paint.

The HARB does not maintain a list. We recommend checking in with preservation organizations, some of which are listed below. 

Emergencies will be case-by-case determinations made by HARB and/or the Bureau of Building Standards.