The Urban Design Commission nominates and regulates buildings and districts that are designated as historic buildings or sites, landmark buildings or sites, conservation districts, historic districts, or landmark districts.

Economic Incentives –

There are local, state, and national economic incentive programs for properties in designated districts. A summary of the incentive programs is available on the Department of City Planning, Office of Design – Historic Preservation webpage (link below).

New Home Construction – 

Allowances for different architectural styles are based on the specific regulations for each historic or landmark district and general regulations for historic or landmark buildings. All conservation districts have general design requirements.

Demolition –

The review process for a proposed demolition is based on the specific regulations for each historic or landmark district and general regulations for historic or landmark buildings. Conservation districts only require that the demolition be reviewed and commented on by the Urban Design Commission.

Changes to Property –

Changes can be made; however, the changes must meet the requirements for that district as determined by the Urban Design Commission or the Office of Design staff.

Fence Installation –

If a property is located in a historic or landmark district, a Certificate of Appropriateness is required from the Urban Design Commission or the Office of Design staff. A building permit from the Office of Buildings is also required.

To determine if a property is located in a landmark, historic or conservation district, utilize the Department of City Planning GIS website (link below).

For more information, contact the Office of Design – Historic Preservation at 404-546-0134.

Office of Design - Historic Preservation

Department of City Planning GIS