What are the alternatives to historic districts, if a neighborhood wants to manage changes and new construction?

Local historic districts are the most commonly used tool to protect historic structures and neighborhoods from incompatible changes, but there are other options that have become popular. One of those options is a Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District. Both a Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District and a historic district are overlay districts; however, a conservation district will typically regulate fewer features and focus more on significant character defining features, such as lot size, building height, setbacks, streetscapes and tree protection. Unlike historic districts, conservation districts rarely consider specific elements, such as windows, buildings materials, colors and decorative details. In addition, most conservation districts do not include demolition delays, a tool utilized in historic districts.

Show All Answers

1. What is historic preservation and why is it needed?
2. What does NOT go into a historic preservation plan?
3. What is a Heritage and Historic Preservation Plan?
4. What are different types of historic designations and which ones include regulations/oversight?
5. What types of information are typically included in a historic preservation ordinance? How can communities shape an ordinance to meet their needs?
6. What are the benefits and responsibilities of owning a property with a local historic designation?
7. What is a typical process for making changes to a property with a local historic designation?
8. What are the alternatives to historic districts, if a neighborhood wants to manage changes and new construction?