Historic Districts

Historic District Design Review

The City of Hopewell has adopted two Historic Districts to preserve and protect the unique historical, architectural, cultural, and archaeological heritage of the City. Any exterior change within these Historic Districts requires architectural design review and approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness:

• B-1 Downtown Central Business District – applies in and around Downtown Hopewell
• TH-1 Tourist/Historic District – applies in and around City Point

Check your zoning district.

When a Certificate of Appropriateness is needed

No exterior change, subject to view from a public street or alley, to any property within a Historic District may be made unless and until a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) has been approved. Such changes include, but are not limited to:

• Alterations to any building or structure, such as building additions, replacement roofing or siding, alterations to or replacement of doors or windows, changes to any exterior paint colors
• Construction or erection of new buildings, structures or features, such as primary structures, sheds, FENCES, SIGNS, detached garages, gazebos, decks, etc.
• Demolition of any building or structure, in whole or in part

Exact, in-kind repairs or replacement are excluded from needing a COA. However, please keep in mind that ANY change in form, material or color requires a COA.

Applying for a COA

To apply for a COA:

• Submit a complete COA application along with all accompanying materials no later than ten (10) days before the next scheduled meeting.
• Required accompanying materials are based on the type of change requested and are listed on the application. Examples include building renderings, mock-ups, site plan drawings, color swatches, pain samples, manufacturer’s product sheets, etc.
• The City uses the adopted Historic District Design Guidelines when reviewing applications for a COA. Applicants should carefully consult the Guidelines when preparing their proposals.
• Do not complete any work prior to submitting a COA. Any work conducted without COA approval may not be required to be removed and will be subject to additional fees.

There is no application fee for a COA.

Additional Information

• B-1 Downtown Central Business District Meeting Information & Resources (see tab at top of page)
• TH-1 Tourist/Historic (City Point) District Meeting Information & Resources (see tab at top of page)

Please contact Kelly Davis, Senior Planner, email or call 804-541-2269, if you have any questions about the application process or whether or not you need a COA.