Historic Preservation Facts

Flowery Branch Historic District Fact Sheet
Q: What is a locally designated historic district?
A: A locally designated historic district is an area with historic, architectural, and/or aesthetic
significance that is recognized and protected at a local level. Local districts are
designated by a local ordinance and are subject to a review process by an appointed
historic preservation commission. Design review protects the visual qualities that make
these districts significant to the community.
Q: Are all buildings in a historic district necessarily historic?
A: No. When the boundaries are drawn for a local historic district, the district often will
include non-historic properties as well. Changes made to non-historic properties can
often be done in a way that will enhance or be in keeping with the integrity of the district.
Q: Will inclusion in a historic district restrict the land use of my property?
A: No. Historic district designations do not affect the Zoning Code or Subdivision
Ordinance. There are no new use restrictions placed on how properties in historic
districts may be used.
Q: Does being in a historic district mean I will not be allowed to demolish my
property?
A: Not necessarily. Any property owner wishing to demolish a property in the historic district
will be required to apply to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) for a Certificate
of Appropriateness. The HPC must review reasons for the proposed demolition before a
Certificate of Appropriateness for demolition could be issued. The goal of the historic
district designation is not the cessation of development, but to assure that development
will be in keeping with the historic character of the district.
Q: Can I appeal a decision by the Historic Preservation Commission?
A: Yes. Section 6.1 of Ordinance No. 375 identifies that any person adversely affected by
any determination made by the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) relative to the
issuance or denial of a Certificate of Appropriateness, or by the Zoning Administrator in
the administration, interpretation, or enforcement of the ordinance, may appeal such
determination to the City Council.
Q: Will inclusion in a historic district prevent me from making changes to my
property?
A: No. Any property owner wishing to change their property in a way that would be
considered a “material change in appearance” will be required to apply to the Historic
Preservation Commission (HPC) for a Certificate of Appropriateness. Designation under
the Flowery Branch Historic Preservation Ordinance does not prevent owners from
making changes to their properties but ensures that changes do not detract from the
architectural, historical, and/or aesthetic qualities of the district. In addition, there are
certain exemptions that do not require an owner to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness
(see Section 5.2 of Ordinance No. 375).
Q: Does the Historic Preservation Commission regulate the color I can paint my home
or building?
A: No. Section 2.2 of Ordinance No. 375 identifies exterior paint as alterations which are
not identified as a “material change in appearance”, thus no Historic Preservation
Commission approval is necessary to paint your home or business.
Q: To apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness must I have and architect or engineer
prepare my plans?
A: No. Section 5.4 (a) of Ordinance No. 375 identifies that certain projects may require
elevation drawings by an architect. However, Section 5.4 (f) allows a waiver of this
requirement depending on the scope of the proposed project. If projects are less
complicated or minor in scope they will require less complicated plans (i.e. porches,
decks, sheds or patios). Regardless of project scope, the City will make every effort to
assist home and business owners, design professionals, and/or contractors in keeping
costs as low as possible.
It should also be noted that the adopted local and State building codes often require that
plans be prepared by an architect or engineer. Plans that are clear and concise are
easier to review for compliance with these codes. These codes exist to protect the life,
safety and welfare of the general public. Currently, the City has adopted the following
codes with certain Georgia Amendments:
• International Building Code (IBC).
• National Electric Code (NEC).
• International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC).
• International Mechanical Code (IMC.
• International Plumbing Code (IPC).
• International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings (IRC).
• International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
• International Fire Code (IFC).
Q: Is Federal or State money available for rehabilitation of historic properties?
A: Yes. To obtain information on this matter, please visit the Georgia Department of Natural
Resources – Historic Preservation Division website at www.gashpo.org or call (404) 656-
2840 and ask for Ced Dolder - Tax Incentives Coordinator.
A copy of the Flowery Branch Historic Preservation Ordinance (Ord No. 375), historic
survey, and all maps and ordinances associated with the proposed districts are available
for viewing at the City of Flowery Branch Planning Department located at 5512 Main Street,
Flowery Branch, GA and on the City’s website at www.flowerybranchga.org.