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.

Getting Approval

All exterior work in the locally-designated historic districts or properties listed on the Salt Lake City Register of Cultural Resources, with the exception of painting and minor repair, requires a Certificate of Appropriateness before a building permit is obtained. Obtaining a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historic Landmark Commission requires a process consisting of three possible steps:

Administrative Review Architectural Subcommittee Review Historic Landmark Commission Review Administrative Review The Planning staff conducts the administrative review. They review smaller projects, such as window replacement, garages and additions that are smaller than 50 percent of the square footage of the footprint of a house. Although the Planning staff is often available to assist drop-in requests, it is best to schedule an appointment. They can usually meet with you the day that you call. They are located in Room 406 of the City and County Building at 451 S. State. When you meet with staff, it is very helpful if you are prepared with building plans, including elevations, and photographs. Most requests for smaller projects are administratively approved by the staff the day they are received. Architectural Subcommittee The Architectural Subcommittee (ASC) consists of HLC members who are architects. They provide technical assistance to property owners and applicants, review projects already considered by the full commission that need further refinement, and projects that the staff feel are too complex for administrative approval.  They meet when needed. Historic Landmark Commission The full Historic Landmark Commission reviews all demolitions of contributing structures and new construction of primary structures in local historic districts. In addition, the HLC reviews projects that the Architectural Subcommittee and the staff determine too complex for their review. The HLC meets the first Wednesday of every month