| How to Apply for Building Permits Involving Historic Property
Most construction related to privately owned buildings in the District of Columbia requires a permit. Permits are required for new construction, demolition, additions, alteration and repair, retaining walls, fences, sheds, awnings, signs, and other types of work. Applications affecting the exterior appearance of historic property, or the interior of a specifically designated historic interior, are subject to historic review. Under the DC Construction Code (Sec. 111.1.2), a permit is also required for minor repair affecting historic property. Minor repairs include such items as masonry pointing, stucco repair, and in-kind replacement of windows, roofing, siding, sidewalks and driveways.
Where does one apply for construction permits involving historic property?
The Permit Processing Division of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, located at 941 North Capitol Street, NE, Room 2300. The permit office is open to the public from 8:30 am to 4:15 pm, Monday through Friday (and until 8:00 pm on Wednesdays). For information, call (202) 442-4470.
Is a separate permit application required for work on historic property?
No. The same permit application is used for all properties. Historic preservation review involves an additional step in processing the application.
What extra processing is required when historic property is involved?
By law the application must be referred to the HPRB for review. If an application involves work on a historic property, the Permit Processing staff prepares an official transmittal to HPRB. The applicant must obtain clearances on this transmittal from the Zoning and Structural Review counters at the permit office before the application is accepted for filing with HPRB. The Permit Processing staff then forwards the application to HPRB.
Are additional application materials required for historic review?
Yes. In addition to the standard permit application requirements, a submission for HPRB review must include comprehensive photographs of the property and two sets of architectural drawings sufficient to indicate the proposed exterior design. In historic districts, photographs must show the property within the context of adjacent structures or the immediate neighborhood. If necessary for review, HPO staff may request additional information.
Is there a filing fee for HPRB review?
Yes. For most homeowner services, including fences, sheds, garages, and minor alterations, the historic review fee is $20 per application. For additions, new construction, and commercial development of less than 10,000 square feet, the fee is $100. These fees are paid when the application is filed.
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