How do I get my plan approved?

The preservation plan is approved during the public hearing by the review of the Commission. The Commission studies the report of the Historic Preservation Officer and reviews the application according to the Secretary of the Interior Standards (standards published by the U.S. Department of the Interior) and the Princeton ordinance. The body then votes on the plan and issues a written document called a Resolution which outlines the approval or disapproval and any conditions that it may have imposed.

It is important to note that the Ordinance states that the criteria and standards in the ordinance are intended to provide a framework within which the designer of the improvement is free to exercise creativity, invention, and innovation.

Approval of Plan

The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) Ordinance states that a preservation plan is approved only if the proposed action (which may be modified by conditions of the reviewing agency):

  • Is compatible with the existing structures and landscape of the historic district;
  • Is consistent with the criteria and standards of the ordinance. (10B-272.4)
  • Would not adversely affect the ambiance, character, and appearance of the historic preservation zoning district and the relationships among structures and between structures and public ways in the district;
  • Would not adversely affect the exterior architectural features and setting of the structure and its historical and architectural interest

Show All Answers

1. What is the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)?
2. What is a preservation plan?
3. When do you need preservation plan approval?
4. What is ordinary maintenance?
5. How do you file for preservation plan approval?
6. Can I have my preservation plan approved administratively?
7. What if I want to run my ideas by the HPC?
8. Do I need a zoning permit for the work I want to do?
9. What if I want to plant a tree?
10. What if I want to paint my house?
11. What if I want to demolish a structure or part of a structure?
12. Do I need to hire professionals to present my plan to the Historic Preservation Commission?
13. What is the public hearing?
14. How do I get my plan approved?
15. What do I do if I need a zoning variance for a single family house?
16. What if my plan is not approved and I disagree with the HPC’s recommendations?
17. How does Princeton designate a historic district?