How do I apply for a permit?

1. The first step in applying for a permit is normally to contact the CZDC staff to talk about your proposed use or design. The staff can help you determine whether a permit is available for your project and what kind of permit is needed. You may be able to determine this information on your own by reviewing the materials available on this site.

2. After you determine what kind of permit you need, you should contact the CZDC staff to find out what information needs to be submitted as a part of your application. This information is also available on our application form.

3. Submit the application form and supporting materials to the CZDC staff. The staff will review your materials and determine whether a permit may be issued at staff level. If your permit will require the approval of the Commission, your application will be scheduled for the next Commission hearing. The Commission hears applications once a month, and permits which require Commission review are due on the first of the month in which they will appear on the Commission's public hearing agenda.

4. If an application must be reviewed by the Commission at a public hearing, it will first be presented to one or more of the Commission's advisory boards. All design-related permits will be reviewed by the Design Review Committee and the Area Advisory Committee of the area in which the proposed project is located. All other permits will be reviewed by the applicable Area Advisory Committee. You are encouraged to attend these committee meetings to present your proposal. You or your designated representative are required to attend the Commission's hearing on your proposal.

What criteria will the Commission use to evaluate my application?

The criteria used by the Commission are laid out in the Ordinance, General Standards, Framework Master Plans, and Rehabilitation and Design Standards. If your proposal is use-related, the General Standards and Framework Master Plan for the area in which the proposed use are located will be most helpful. If you are proposing design-related work, the Rehabilitation and Design Standards will be most helpful. The CZDC staff is also happy to answer any questions you have about what factors the Commission will take into account when your application is reviewed.

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Please note: While we try our very best to keep this web site up to date, we cannot guarantee that the materials presented on this site are the latest available. Please check with the staff to determine current requirements and forms.