Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission was established September 1, 1975 to protect and preserve, for the benefit of the community as a whole, the significant historic and architectural elements that contribute to the visual character of the Historic District of the Borough.

Certificate of Appropriateness

A permit, called a Certificate of Appropriateness, is required for demolition of existing structures, construction of new buildings or structures, or remodeling or alterations of exterior features of buildings and structures. The Commission acts for the purpose of controlling the erection or alteration of buildings or structures which are incongruous with the historic or architectural characteristics of the Borough of Fenwick Historic District. The Commission will consider the following factors, among others, when it reviews applications:

  • detailing and workmanship, texture
  • exterior windows, doors, light fixtures, signs, above-ground utility structures and mechanical appurtenances
  • exterior building materials – new, replacement, reconstruction or renovation
  • historic value and significance, architectural style
  • proportion, massing and shape, scale, height or number of stories, roof forms.
  • placement on the lot, orientation and directional expression.
  • relationship of the exterior architectural features involved to the buildings and structures in the general area
  • continuity of walls and fences
  • style, material, size and location of signs
  • size of parking areas, visibility of cars therein and their relationship to adjacent buildings
  • placement of any structures, fountains and the like of a permanent nature

A Certificate of Appropriateness is required whether or not the proposed activity requires a building permit or demolition permit. If such permits are required, State Statute prohibits their issuance until a Certificate of Appropriateness has been issued by the Historic District Commission. A Certificate of Appropriateness is required for all repairs or replacements on the exterior of a structure. 

Enforcement

State Statute (CGS§ 7-147) empowers the municipal Historic District Commission to enforce its regulations through court proceedings, if necessary.

Public Hearings

A Public Hearing must be held on each application. Before a public hearing on the application can proceed the application must be complete, including any and all necessary documents and the applicant must email a copy of the legal notice to adjoining property owners.

The applicant or his/her designated agent or attorney must attend the hearing. It is strongly advised the applicant be present. Applications without presenters may be denied at the Commission’s option.

Hearings are generally scheduled for Commission regular meetings which are held every other month with an extra meeting in June. Special meetings may be scheduled as needed.

Meeting recordings are available for 45 days.
January 7, 2023
March 4, 2023
May 6, 2023 canceled
June 3, 2023
July 8, 2023
September 6, 2023
November 4, 2023
January 6, 2024
March 2, 2024