Certificate of Appropriateness
Historic Districts
Historic districts are groupings of buildings and structures, noteworthy for their age. architectural integrity, or aesthetic unity. Downtowns, residential neighborhoods, and rural areas that have retained their historic character often receive official historic district designation. Historic district designation is an important tool for preservation-based revitalization, including downtown and neighborhood revival, with federal and state historic preservation tax credits often used to rehabilitate income-producing properties in these districts.
There are two distinct types of historic districts: those that meet standards of the National Register of Historic Places, and local districts established by municipal ordinance, which are administered by a local review board. The City of Venus has the latter, which is the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC).
The HPC has its own rules of procedure and issue its own approvals, known as Certificates of Appropriateness, when approving construction plans. The HPC's actions do restrict what a person can do with their property, this includes exterior renovations, building demolition, and new construction. The HPC is in tasked for approving facade improvements and signage in order to protect and enhance the visual character as well as encourage economic development in commercial neighborhoods.
Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs) are required before exterior work can begin in the City of Venus landmarks or on structures within the Historic Overlay. Substantial alterations require approval of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC).
Applicability:
- Above-ground utilities
- Alterations and additions
- Doors
- Landscaping
- Lighting
- New construction
- Paving
- Restoration of buildings
- Walls and fences
- Roofing
- Siding
- Signage
- Windows
A COA is required regardless of whether the modification to the exterior or site is visible, and regardless of whether a building permit is required for the work.
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/taxincentives/secretarys-standards-rehabilitation.htm
Illustrated Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic buildings
https://www.nps.gov/crps/tps/rehab-guidelines/index.htm
Illustrated Guidelines on Sustainability for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings
https://www.nps.gov/crps/tps/sustainability-guidelines/index.htm
