1. How do I know whether my house is in one of the Historic Districts?
You can look on the HPC web site map, or call the City Planning Director, at 603-1117.
2. What are the responsibilities of the property owner within the Historic Districts when planning improvements to the exterior of their property?
Whenever you make exterior changes to your property, they have to be reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). Consult the HPC Guidelines on the web site, or you may purchase a copy for $10 at City Hall, Planning Department. Determine whether the changes are within the Guidelines. Submit an Application for a Certificate of Appropriateness before beginning the work.
3. What is a Certificate of Appropriateness?
It is a permit to physically alter exterior surfaces or areas within the Historic Districts. It is issued when the HPC determines that the proposed improvements are appropriate to and compatible with the historic character of the house.
4. Is a Certificate of Appropriateness required for all exterior work?
No. Ordinary maintenance does not require any review by the HPC. You can view a list of what is considered ordinary maintenance on the HPC web site under Permits and Procedures.
5. Do Minor repairs, beyond ordinary maintenance, require a Certificate of Approval?
Yes. Minor repair work is reviewed by the Minor Works Committee of the HPC. A list of minor works can be viewed on the HPC web site, Permits and Procedures.
6. How quickly can I get an approval for Minor work?
Oxford City Planning will forward your application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to the HPC Minor Works Committee. They will review it within a few days. Applicant does not need to appear before the Historic Preservation Commission.
7. What if the work planned does not require a Building Permit from the City. Do I still need to fill out an Application for a Certificate of Appropriateness?
Yes. You need to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness prior to beginning the work even if a Building Permit is not required. (Note: Building Permits in Oxford are issued by the Granville County Inspections Dept.)
8. What if I want to paint my house a different color. Do I need a Certificate of Appropriateness for this?
Yes. A change in color is considered a Major Work which requires review by the HPC. However, if you paint your home the same color, no Certificate of Appropriateness is required.
9. How soon do I apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness for Major Work?
You will need to make your application at least 15 days before the next meeting of the Commission. You will need to file your application with the City Planning Department. You will need to come to the HPC meeting at the time your application is reviewed.
10. How often does the Commission meet?
The Commission meets quarterly on the third Thursday of the months of January, April, July and October, or as required. They meet at City Hall at 6 pm.
11. What if the Commission denies my application, what can I do?
You may resubmit your application after correcting the portion that the Commission denied. Otherwise, you may appeal the action of the Commission to the City Board of Adjustment within 45 days of the action.
12. After receiving a Certificate of Appropriateness, how long is it valid?
Six months. After that if you have not commenced the work, you will need to re-apply for a Certificate.
13. Can the interior of a structure be changed without a Certificate of Appropriateness?
Yes. The Commission only reviews exterior changes.
14. I have heard I cannot put aluminum or vinyl siding on my house. Is that correct?
Yes. However, if your house already has aluminum or vinyl siding you can make repairs if you use exactly the same material and color. But no new aluminum or vinyl siding is allowed on houses that do not presently have it.
15. I have heard that I may be able to use tax credits for renovations. Where can I find out more about that?
Owners of historic properties are encouraged to investigate the federal and state rehabilitation income tax credits if they are contemplating changes. However, you need to contact the State Historic Preservation Office prior to undertaking rehabilitation. All work must adhere to the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and rehabilitation work must be approved by the State Historic Preservation Office. You can learn more by clicking on the Oxford HPC web site link, Tax Credits or by contacting the State Historic Preservation Office in Raleigh.