Certificate of Appropriateness Application
Overview
The purpose of the Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) application is to provide sufficient detailed information for the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) and the Chesterfield Township Planning Board to understand and review the work you intend to undertake. This Commission is advisory to the Planning Board and its responsibilities include protecting and preserving the Township’s historic resources and sites, and creating community awareness and support for historic preservation.
Who needs to fill out the COA?
Any property owner in the Historic Districts of Chesterfield or any property deemed an “Historic Landmark” must fill out this application. If you are unsure whether your property is within the Historic Districts, see the Historic Districts Map and Parcels
Projects that need COA approval affect the exteriors of your building(s) that are visible from public rights-of-way. Though not a complete list, the most common projects which do require a COA are:
- Window and door replacement
- Siding removal and replacement
- Roofing and gutter removal and replacement
- Porch and railing replacement
- Additions to existing buildings
- Demolition of structures
- Fencing
- New construction
- Any facade changes
However, not every project requires a COA. Projects that do NOT need COA approval:
- Painting your building(s)
- Work on the interior of your building
- Work that is not visible from a public right-of-way
Before You Begin
- You (and your architect, if you’re working with one) should be familiar with the “Adopted Historic Guidelines” document.
- Review the checklist in the COA application and plan to provide sufficient materials at least 2 weeks before the HPC meeting. A lack of sufficient materials can delay your application.
Process
- Complete and submit the COA application [link to application] to the municipal office at least two weeks prior to the monthly meetings, which are held on the first Tuesday of every month at the municipal office and online. Submission of a complete and timely application DOES NOT GUARANTEE being placed on the agenda for the next meeting.
- If you are unsure about the completeness of your application, please consult with the Commission by contacting the HPC Secretary Hailey Simmons E-mail: Hailey [at] chesterfieldtwp.com (Hailey[at]chesterfieldtwp[dot]com)
- The Commission reviews the application during the monthly meeting and makes a recommendation for either: a) approval, b) approval with conditions, or c) denial. You and/or a representative are encouraged to attend the meeting in-person or virtually so that you can respond to any questions from the HPC members.
- A copy of the Commission’s review is provided to you, the applicant, within 10 days of the Commission’s decision as well as distributed to the Board Secretary of the Planning Board and to the Construction Code Official.
- The municipal Planning Board meets to take determinative action on your application while considering the HPC recommendations. This occurs during the municipal Planning Board’s regular business meetings.