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Historic Preservation

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1. Do I have to get a permit when altering my property?

A building permit is required when any substantial alteration is proposed. If alteration is proposed for a building in the Historic District, then the Historic Preservation Commission must review the application.

2. What is the Geneva Historic Preservation Commission?

The HPC is a seven member board that is appointed by the Mayor and City Council.

3. When does the HPC meet?

The HPC meets at 7:00 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 109 James Street.

4. When was the HPC established? What is its purpose?

The HPC was established in 1982 when the City of Geneva adopted a preservation ordinance, similar to those enacted in other municipalities across the United States. The purpose of the HPC is to protect buildings and neighborhoods in the City which have special historic, architectural, and cultural character. The HPC is responsible for the review and approval of exterior projects on historic properties. When adopted in 1982 the HPC was advisory. In 1994 the preservation ordinance was updated, giving the HPC binding review authority.

5. What is a historic property/historic designation?

Article 19 of Geneva Municipal Code establishes a process for the identification, designation, and protection of historic properties that are valuable assets to the city. Historic properties are distinctive areas or sites; a place of historical significance characterized by buildings and trees, architectural design and landscape features. It may be monumental or simple, residential or commercial. Historic buildings and districts are a legacy, linking present and future generations with their heritage. Under article 19, properties that are determined to be architecturally and/or historically significant may be designated as:
• Landmarks (individual properties)
• Historic Districts (areas of distinctive historic character)

6. What are the designated historic properties in Geneva?

Geneva has one local historic district consisting of about 670 properties, the Geneva Historic District, which was designated by ordinance in 1987. It contains two historic districts – the Central Geneva Historic District and the North Geneva Historic District – that were listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and 1982 respectively. Geneva has two individual landmarks: the Henry Bond Fargo residence at 316 Elizabeth Place and Riverbank Laboratories at 1512 Batavia Avenue, designated in 2006 and 1999 respectively. Other properties listed on the National Register include the Country Day School at 1250 South Street, the Fabyan Windmill at 1500 Crissey, and Fabyan Villa at 1511 Batavia Avenue. See page three for a map illustrating the locally-designated properties.

7. What is the difference between listing in the National Register of Historic Places and local designation?

The National Register is our nation’s official list of historic places deemed worthy of preservation; it simply recognizes a site or area’s historical, architectural, cultural, or archeological significance. While the National Register provides recognition of a historic or architecturally-significant property it does not protect properties from inappropriate changes or demolition. Local designation offers protection against incompatible changes or demolition by requiring review and approval by the Historic Preservation Commission prior to receiving a building permit.

8. What does it mean when your property has historic designation?

Locally designated properties and districts are better protected from unmanaged change. This protection is similar to that provided by modern home associations. Nationally, property values stabilize and typically increase as a result of local historic designation and the added protection it brings. Additionally, neighborhood residents have an opportunity for public input during the design review process. In addition, as a Local Landmark or a contributing building within a Historic District, your property may qualify for state or federal tax benefits. These tax credits are available for rehabilitation work done on eligible historic properties.

9. What types of projects require review by the Historic Preservation Commission?

Any project affecting the exterior appearance of a historic property that requires a building permit needs approval by the HPC. Examples of projects include: window replacement, re-siding, addition to existing building, demolition, new construction – garages, outbuildings, porches, decks, fences, enclosure or removal of porches, adding dormers, removal of exterior trim and chimneys, installation of new driveways or sidewalks, etc. Before beginning your project make sure that the project does not require a building permit/HPC review and contact staff.

10. Is interior work or routine maintenance reviewed?

No. Interior work and routine outdoor maintenance such as exterior painting, replacing faulty guttering, and landscaping (except removal of mature trees) will not require review.

11. How do I apply for HPC review?

HPC approval is required for any exterior project that needs a building permit. Complete a building permit application, HPC review application and submit information that illustrates the proposal (elevation drawings, site plans, floor plans, information about materials, etc). Applications for HPC review are due no later than two weeks prior to the HPC meeting. Some applications may be administratively approved by Staff. At the HPC meeting, the Commission will review the proposal and approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application. Contact staff to ensure that you are submitting the required information.

12. What criteria does the HPC use when reviewing my project?

The HPC uses the nationwide preservation review standards that are established by the National Park Service - the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards (SOI Standards). For more information online - http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/tps/standguide/

13. Can I appeal the decision of the HPC?

Yes. If a proposal is denied by the Commission, you may opt to revise your proposal using the HPC’s recommendations. If you do not wish to revise your proposal and wish to appeal, you may do so in writing to the Building Commissioner who will recommend review by City Council.

14. How do I nominate a property for local designation?

Contact staff. Complete a landmark nomination form and provide supplemental information about the property (or properties) that indicates how it meets the criteria for landmark designation. A public hearing is required. All communication that is required for the landmark nomination process is at the nominator’s expense

15. Can I get assistance from Staff before I start designing my project?

Yes, Staff is happy to advise property owners on developing a concept for their construction. Staff may be able to provide valuable information about zoning and how to comply with the SOI Standards.

16. How can I research my property or history about Geneva?

Aside from numerous online sources, the Geneva History Museum is a great source for historical information about the City of Geneva and may have information about your property. The museum is located at 113 S. Third St. and can be reached by calling 630-232.4951. 

17. Will the Commission tell me what color to paint my house?

The answer to that often asked question is “no.” Repainting your house, in the absence of any structural changes, does not require a permit. However, if any assistance were needed in making a color decision, the Commission would be very willing to help.

18. I live in the Historic District and I want to add on to my home. Can the Commission prevent me from doing this?

The Commission may oppose an addition that is insensitive to the design of your home or inappropriate for the neighborhood. The Commission will offer advice on how to amend an inappropriate plan if it is reasonable to think some changes would bring about a positive result.

19. Does living in the Historic District prevent me from tearing down my house?

The Commission strongly discourages demolition. This act eliminates the very fabric of history that makes the District what it is. We strongly encourage innovative plans that incorporate our older structures into useful spaces for today's living needs.