RESOURCES HOME  ●  ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD  ●  OLD SOUTHWEST BUSINESS DIRECTORY

RESOURCES FOR RESIDENTS - Architectural Review Board

Mission of the ARB

The mission of the Architectural Review Board is to preserve, protect and enhance the character of significant historic, architectural or cultural properties located in historic districts by ensuring the design compatibility and appropriateness of new construction and alterations therein. The Board also identifies historic properties and recommends historic designation for such properties.

The Architectural Review Board’s primary duty is to administer the historic district regulations adopted by City Council, particularly as pertains to the city’s historic districts (H-1, Historic District and H-2, Neighborhood Preservation District). In doing so, the Board reviews new construction, alterations and demolition of structures located within historic districts in accordance with zoning regulations and adopted architectural design guidelines, and provides architectural and design expertise to City Council, City Administration, and other City Boards.

The Board also recommends historic landmark status and historic district protection for properties of significant historic, architectural or cultural value in the city, while assisting applicants in maintaining and enhancing the contributing architectural features of historic buildings through informal workshops and individual work sessions.

Working with the Architectural Review Board

To guide rehabilitation and ensure compatible new construction, the City of Roanoke Architectural Review Board must review all exterior changes within the H2 district, and approve a Certificate of Appropriateness before a building permit will be issued. The ARB has jurisdiction over exterior alterations, new construction, and demolition. Jurisdiction covers all structures including garages, outbuildings, fences, exterior stairs, pools, decks and porches, signs, exterior lighting and changes to such elements as windows, roofs, and doors. The ARB encourages rehabilitation of existing buildings and proper maintenance and repair of existing materials, as opposed to replacement with new and dissimilar materials. 

In order to make any exterior changes, build something new, or demolish any exterior structure; property owners must first submit an application to the ARB. If an application is approved, then the ARB will issue a Certificate of Appropriateness. Please note that for some projects, a building permit and zoning approval are also needed.

Real estate tax abatements are also available for major rehabilitations of buildings in very poor states of repair. Arrangements must be made prior to the beginning of rehab.

Residents wishing to obtain an ARB approval are encouraged to enlist the support of Old Southwest. OSW members and residents are well aware of the processes involved in obtaining the appropriate documents and can offer assistance and suggestions about your application. Please feel free to contact our offices at 540-343-8794 and we will be happy to offer any help that we can!

For additional information about the Architectural Review process, contact:

 

Erica Taylor
Agent to the ARB

Roanoke City Department of Planning, Building, and Development
Phone: 540.853.1522
Fax: 540-853-1230
erica.taylor@roanokeva.gov