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1. How do I know if my property is within the Historic District?

You may refer to the list of properties within the district and the map of the district provided on this website, contact the Commission (through its Secretary or the Chair of the Commission), or view Historical District maps at Town Hall.

2. What activities are within the jurisdiction of the Historical Commission?

The activities within the jurisdiction of the Commission include without limitation the alteration (such as rebuilding, reconstruction, restoration, removal, or demolition) or construction (such as building, erection, installation, enlargement, or moving) of any building or structure within the Historic District which in anyway that affects an exterior architectural feature of the building or structure. Hardscape changes to the lot are subject to Commission approval. Interior fixtures and features visible from a public way are also within Commission jurisdiction.

3. What are the three different types of certificates?

Certificate of Appropriateness, Certificate of Non-Applicability, and Certificate of Hardship. For more specifics please see MGL, Chapter 40C, Section 10. 

A Certificate of Appropriateness is issued if the Commission determines that the construction or alteration in an application will be appropriate for or compatible with the preservation or protection of the historic district.

A Certificate of Non-Applicability is issued if the Commission determines that the construction or alteration in an application does not involve any exterior architectural feature or interior fixtures and
features visible from a public way.

A Certificate of Hardship is issued if the Commission determines that failure to approve an application will involve a substantial hardship, financial or otherwise, to the applicant and that the application may be approved without substantial detriment to the public welfare and without substantial derogation from the intent and purposes of MGL, Ch 40C.

4. What activities don’t require an application to the Historical Commission?

No application need be made for routine maintenance that does not involve a change in design, color, or material. Modifications that will not be permanent (fewer than 30 days), such as a sign giving notice of a special event, or the flying of a flag during a holiday celebration, are exempt from Commission jurisdiction. No application need be made to change a paint color to white, to repaint using the same color, or to replace an existing mailbox in the same location with a USPS standard mailbox, unpainted or painted black and supported by an unpainted wooden post. However, it is advisable to inform the Commission of any upcoming “like for like” work that will take place on your property.

Inquiries concerning whether an activity is within the Commission’s jurisdiction should be directed to the Chair of the Commission or via the Commission’s Administrative Assistant. If in doubt about applicability, parties are encouraged to file an application for a Certificate of Non-Applicability.

5. Do I need to hire an architect or engineer as part of my application?

The Commission does not require unnecessary involvement of professional architects or engineers; however, submissions should be presented with sufficient clarity, accuracy and detail (size, dimensions) to permit the Commission to judge the effect that the proposed activity would have on the building or structure at issue and on the Historic District as a whole.