Architectural and Design Review Boards

Architectural Reviews are employed by many communities across the country in order to provide some continuity of design standards for the built environment. Historic districts particularly are able to benefit from Architectural and Design Reviews, which can ensure the protection of districts’ history and character. Review boards will generally look over proposals to exterior changes and additions to property and make a determination on their appropriateness. While these boards do mean property owners have lost some amount of freedom, they also have contributed to an enhanced sense of place, neighborhood revitalization, and economic benefits to communities.

Below you will find information regarding Review Boards in each participating community. This page is meant to be a guide, however, it is important to always check with your building department before foregoing application review!

Not needing approval from an Architectural Review Board, does not mean your project does not need a permit. For information on permits, please see Permit Information.