What does it mean to own property in a local historic district?
Property owners in local historic districts need to contact the Commission staff (336-727-2087) before beginning any exterior changes to existing structures, or prior to beginning any project involving new construction or demolition. The Commission and its staff will review the project. If it meets the terms of the ordinance and district’s guidelines, a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) will be issued. A building permit cannot be issued in an historic district without a COA.