Page last updated on August 27, 2020 at 10:59 am
A Conservation District is intended to slow radical change in a neighborhood by reviewing only major events like demolition and new construction. In comparison, a historic district regulates all exterior changes and best serves districts with high architectural integrity. Often a Conservation District is appropriate when there is significant development pressure or when the inventory of buildings to be protected is historic but not individually of high or unique architectural value.
Design Guidelines
A Conservation District has less regulation than a full historic district, affecting only moving, demolition or new construction of a principal or accessory building. After three years, the owners of property within the district are provided an opportunity to object to its elevation to a full historic district. If a majority of owners object in writing, then the district continues as a Conservation District.
How to Make Changes
In a Conservation District, if you need to move, demolish or build a new building, you are required to go before the Bloomington Historic Preservation Commission to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness. By law, this process can take no more than 30 days after a complete application is received.
A Conservation District does not require the review of changes such as paint color, porch enclosure, window replacement or additions. Small-scale changes to the exterior of structures do not require review by the Bloomington Historic Preservation Commission, however major alterations may require review if they destroy or obscure a significant amount of original fabric. Check with the historic preservation program manager if you believe your project will have a significant impact on the architectural character of the structure.
Bloomington's Conservation Districts
The Near West Side
Maple Heights