Greensboro’s Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) adopted new Historic District Program Manual and Design Standards at its September 24 meeting. The updated standards define rules and guidelines for exterior work, and aim to protect the special character of homes and other structures located in Greensboro’s three locally designated historic districts (College Hill, Dunleath, Fisher Park).  

A revamped Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) application required for all exterior and site work on properties in the local historic districts, accompanies the new standards. The HPC will accept the previous COA application form through the end of the year, and will review applications with the new standards immediately.  

This marks the first time since 2003 that the standards have been substantively updated. The changes ensure the manual remains clear and user-friendly, and aligned with current best practices in historic preservation, energy efficiency, and sustainability. Key highlights include: 

• A new document designed for online use with links to additional resources, an index, and a sidebar with document chapters 

• Clarification of intent on standards to minimize misinterpretations 

• A prioritized focus on older trees that contribute to the area’s tree canopy and updated standards on which trees require a COA for removal 

• New requirements for demolition and relocation applications, including photographic documentation for archival purposes 

• More flexibility in alterations to buildings constructed after the district’s major development period 

Visit www.greensboro-nc.gov/HPC to access the new Historic District Program Manual and Design Standards and COA application. For more information or to request a physical copy of the documents, call the City’s Planning Department at 336-373-2144 or email HDProgram@greensboro-nc.gov.