Most minor work in Georgetown that is not visible from public space is reviewed by the Historic Preservation Office (HPO) under authority delegated by the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB). The Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) does not review work that is not visible from a street or alley.
What is considered minor or routine work?
Permit applications for minor repairs and temporary work in Georgetown can be reviewed or cleared by HPO. Such work includes:
- replacement of roofs that are not visible from the ground;
- minor rear alterations not visible from an alley;
- underground work, including utility lines, waterproofing, and removal or repair of storage tanks;
- masonry repointing;
- repair or partial replacement in kind of compatible fences (a new fence or substantial replacement of a fence requires CFA review; replacement of small portions can be considered a minor repair not requiring a permit);
- other minor repairs as cited in the DC Construction Code;
- temporary construction barriers and scaffolding;
- temporary primary business signs to be displayed 60 days or less while review for a permanent sign is pending;
- public space permits for dumpsters and parking; and
- applications for change of use.