Understanding Historic Overlay Zoning
When considering any rehab project that would affect the exterior (only) of your property, please remember the process established by Historic Overlay Zoning:
Requirements:
1. Any project requiring a building or sign permit will first be reviewed by the Landmarks Commission through an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness. (ordinary repair or maintenance including in-kind replacement of materials does not require a review)
2. Any project requiring a demolition permit will first be reviewed by the Landmarks Commission. If a permit is denied by the Commission, the demolition could be delayed for one year from the time of the request.
3. The Landmarks Commission reviews the following miscellaneous exterior alterations that do not otherwise require a building permit. Please see the ordinance for the specific requirements; Zoning Ordinance, Section 23-365.5. Listed below are examples of alterations reviewed by the Commission:
* a shade of the same color & choosing the color from a historical colors paint chart is recommended and would not require a review from the Landmarks Commission
Benefits:
1. The property owner receives an automatic tax reduction for having the zoning, either $200.00 or 20% per year, whichever is greater. (This amount could be different if your property is in the Tax Increment Financing District in downtown.) This tax reduction can be increased for a period of ten years by submitting a project tax proposal to the Commission and completing the project. Only City property taxes are reduced.
2. A plaque can be placed on the exterior front elevation to identify the property's historic significance.
3. The property is protected from major change or demolition as long as the City Council maintains the present ordinance, leaving a legacy for your home, your family and Abilene.