Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)

Purpose

Protecting the integrity of designated historic resources by requiring a review of proposals to add to, demolish or in any way alter the exterior historic fabric of such resources. 

WHEN IS A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS REQUIRED?

  1. A certificate of appropriateness shall be required for any of the following activities on properties within designated Historic Districts and individually designated historic properties:
      • Any material change or alteration in the exterior appearance of existing buildings objects or structures.
      • The movement or relocation of any building object, or structure.
      • Any new construction of principal or accessory buildings or structures.
      • Disturbance of an archeological site.
      • Division of a tract or parcel of land into two or more lots.

If you are unsure if your property is located within a Historic District, Contact City Staff

Land Development Regulations chapter 33

Section 33-12 - Definitions (Pertaining to Historic Preservation)
  • Demolition
  • Historic Design District
  • Historic Property
  • Ordinary Maintenance
  • Original Appearance

Section 33-34 - Historic districts and landmarks.

  • 33-34.01 Generally
  • 33-34.02. Local register of historic places.
  • 33-34.03. Certificates of appropriateness.

Section 33-123 - Historic Preservation Board

  • 33-123.01. Establishment 
  • 33-123.02 Board membership, officers, etc.
  • 33-123.03 General functions, powers and duties.

Section 33-35 - Demolition

  • 33-35.01. Generally.
  • 33-35.02. Responsibility of owner.

The secretary of the interior's standards helpful information & links:

Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitation, Restoring, & Reconstructing Historic Buildings

Standards for Restoration & Guidelines for Restoring Historic Buildings

Illustrated Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings

Guidelines on Sustainability for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings

Guidelines on Flood Adaption for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings