Here’s a detailed guide on where to go for approval, what information you need, and the steps involved in the process. If you have purchased a property in a historic district in Phoenix, Arizona, you will need to obtain approval before making any changes to the property.
Location and Contact Information
Office Address:
City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Office
200 W. Washington St., 3rd Floor
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone Number: (602) 262-4720
Website: Historic Preservation
Office Hours
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (check for holiday hours).
A. Types of Changes Requiring Approval
• Before initiating any changes, familiarize yourself with the types of alterations that typically require approval, which include:
o Exterior renovations (painting, siding, windows, roofing)
o New construction (decks, fences, outbuildings)
o Landscape modifications (plantings, hardscaping)
o Significant interior changes that may affect structural elements or historical features.
B. Submitting an Application
1. Application Form: Obtain the appropriate application form for exterior changes from the Historic Preservation Office’s website or in person.
2. Documentation Required: Gather and submit the following information along with your application:
• Detailed Project Description: Describe the nature of the work you plan to undertake.
• Site Plans: Provide scaled drawings or plans showing the existing conditions and the proposed changes.
• Photographs: Include current photographs of the property and the specific areas where changes are planned.
• Materials List: Specify materials to be used in the project, including paint colors, roofing materials, and any other relevant products.
• Historical Context: If necessary, explain how the proposed changes relate to the property’s historical context.
3. Application Fee: Be aware that there may be an application fee. Check the current fee schedule on the Historic Preservation Office website.
A. Review Process
Review Timeframe: Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the Historic Preservation Officer. The review time can vary, so be sure to ask about the expected timeline when you submit your application.
Public Hearing: For significant changes, your application may be scheduled for a public hearing with the Historic Preservation Commission. This is an opportunity for community members to voice their opinions.
B. Approval Notification
After the review process, you will receive a written notification of the decision. If approved, you may proceed with your project. If denied, the notification will outline the reasons for the denial and may provide suggestions for making the proposal acceptable.
A. Additional Permits
After receiving approval from the Historic Preservation Office, you may need to obtain a building permit from the City of Phoenix Planning and Development Department for construction-related work.
Building Permit Office: You can access building permits online or visit:
Office Address:
200 W. Washington St., 2nd Floor
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Website: Phoenix Building Permits
A. Historic Preservation Guidelines
Familiarize yourself with the Phoenix Historic Preservation Guidelines, which provide standards for rehabilitation and new construction in historic districts. This document is available on the Historic Preservation Office’s website.
B. Community Involvement
Engage with local historic preservation organizations or neighborhood associations that may provide additional support, resources, or insight into the approval process and community expectations.
Welcome to Connie Ramirez Phoenix Homes Real Estate, where we are dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional real estate services. We are a team of experienced and knowledgeable agents who are committed to helping you buy, sell, or rent a property.
Purchasing a property in a historic district in Phoenix requires careful consideration of the approval process for any changes. By contacting the City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Office, gathering the necessary documentation, and following the guidelines, you can ensure that your renovations respect the historical character of your property while complying with local regulations. Always stay informed about the latest updates from the Historic Preservation Office to ensure a smooth renovation process.
Are you ready to Buy or Sell?
Connie Ramirez, Realtor MBA
DRE# SA685069000
602-615-4166
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