The HPDS apply to all properties located within the Historic District. Most exterior changes to properties located within the Historic District will require review for conformance with the HPDS. Many projects can be reviewed and approved by staff through a Minor Design Review (MDR) process. Projects that propose a substantial change are reviewed by the Design Review Committee (DRC).

Although some projects such as landscaping are exempt from a review process, they must still conform to the Design Standards. Contact Historic Preservation Planning staff in the early stages of planning your project for guidance.

• Additions
• Roofline alterations
• New structures over 120SF (ADUs exempt)
• Demolition
• Relocation

Did you know that vinyl windows are prohibited in the Historic District? Vinyl has a limited life span, therefore the windows require much more frequent replacement, and additional cost, over the life of a building.

Windows and doors are important character-defining features of a historic building and shall be repaired and restored. Maintaining historic windows and doors are often the most cost-effective method of preserving the character of the home and can outlast modern replacements because the old-growth lumber used is more stable, dense, and rot resistant than any wood available now.

Here are some tips to improve the efficiency of historic windows may include:

• Removing built-up layers of paint that cause windows to stick.
• Disassembling window components to repair, patch and stabilize wood. Avoid removing deteriorated wood that can be repaired.
• Repairing original hardware, including hinges, and latches or locks.
• Replacing the putty holding glass in place.
• Replacing broken sash cords.
• Installing new weather-stripping.

Setting, or streetscape, is critical to the sense of place to historic districts. Here are some simple ways you can preserve the historic streetscape of Old Towne:

• Preserve the prevailing pattern of open space in front and side yards by maintaining front yard landscaping. Minimize paving and non-porous surfaces.
• Preserve historic walkways, driveways, and other hardscape. Replacement hardscape should conform to the color, texture, and finish standard the Historic District.
• Maintain front yards which are typically characterized by low-growing foundation plantings or cottage gardens.
• Artificial turf is prohibited in parkways, front yards, and side yards visible from the street.
• Mulch, gravel, decomposed granite and unplanted soil are not compatible.
• Compatible drought tolerant alternatives may be appropriate if they are compatible with the character of historic front yards and parkways.
• Front yard fencing may be appropriate if they are low and transparent
  • Wood picket fences are appropriate for Craftsman and Folk Victorian Homes
  • Wrought iron fences are appropriate for Spanish Colonial Revival or Tudor Revival homes
  • Front yard fencing is strongly encouraged to have an 18-24 inch planting strip between the fence and sidewalk.
  • Vinyl, chain link, and plastic fences are prohibited.

Accessory Structures:

• Many historic properties in Old Towne contain small utilitarian accessory structures such as carriage houses, garages, or sheds constructed to store vehicles and equipment.
• If the property:

1. was constructed during the Historic District’s period of significance (1880-1940) and;
2. Retains substantial physical features from that time period,

then the structure is likely a character defining feature and should be preserved.

• Most historic accessory structures can be preserved and rehabilitated. In limited cases where a historic accessory structure is too deteriorated to be repaired, the property owner may submit a report to the Historic Preservation Planning department requesting demolition and reconstruction of the structure.