SALT LAKE CITY HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION

The Historic Landmark Commission (HLC) reviews all applications for landmark sites, demolition and new construction within locally-designated historic districts. They do not review interior work or exterior paint color, only exterior alterations. The majority of the projects presented to the HLC are either approved as submitted or with modifications.

Additions

Download design guidelines for additions (as Adobe Acrobat PDF file). This file is approximately 2016 KB.

Policy: If a new addition to a historic building is to be constructed, it should be designed such that the early character is maintained. Older additions that have taken on significance also should be considered for preservation. Additions to historic buildings are appropriate in many cases. It is important, however, that new additions be designed in such a manner that they preserve the historic character of the primary structure.

Take care to ensure that the addition would not have a negative effect on the historic character of the building and surrounding district. Removal of character-defining architectural features should be avoided. Additions should be subordinate in scale and character to the main building. Consider locating an addition to the side or rear of the building, and reducing the height of the addition, so that the historic structure remains predominate. Adding dormers to the roof of a one-story house will usually have less impact than constructing an entire additional story. Use materials that were similar to those in use historically. Clapboard siding , brick and narrow vertical bead boards were commonly used on additions in the past. Vinyl and aluminum siding, soffit and fascia are not allowed for use on additions to contributing structures. Many small additions are administratively reviewed and approved by staff or the Architectural Subcommittee. Additions that change the roofline of a structure, or that increase the square footage of a building by more than 50% are required to go to the full Historic Landmark Commission for review. Consult the Design Guidelines and Section 21A.34.020.G of the Salt Lake City Zoning Ordinance for the standards the Historic Landmark Commission uses in evaluating additions, or contact the Planning staff for further information.