The new LPC guidebook, designed to assist with permit applications. Image Credit: LPC
The guidebook is designed to guide applicants through the Commission’s rules and processes to assist in the permit application process. On December 5, 2019, the Landmarks Preservation Commission released a new permit guidebook designed to assist applicants who need permit approvals by the Commission. Landmarks have also released new application forms to make the permit application process easier for applicants.
Property owners and tenants who want to do work on landmark properties need to seek approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission first. The guidebook will provide applicants with explanations of Landmarks rules and processes with outlines and simple steps to break down criteria for approval.
The new guidebook reflects new rules and amendments that were adopted in January 2019. The guidebook includes information about materials that need to be included with the initial application. Guidelines for barrier-free access, sustainability, resiliency and flood protection measures are also included.
The new guidebook can be downloaded as a whole or by chapter. The design and revision for the guidebook were supported with a grant from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.
In addition to the new guidebook, there are now four application forms available:
- The Standard Application form for interior or exterior work and to correct or legalize landmark violations.
- The FasTrack Application Form for interior work and select exterior work.
- The Expedited Certificate of No Effect Application Form, for select interior work only.
- The Post-Approval Application Form, used to amend previously approved work or submit filing drawing for a Certificate of Appropriateness.
Landmarks designed the new forms to be more user-friendly. In the next few months, Landmarks will hold outreach events to present the guidebook and forms to the public.
Landmarks Preservation Commission Chair Sarah Carroll stated, “As Chair, my goal is to make the agency’s processes clear and fair, and ensure that appropriate work is approved as quickly as possible, which is why we updated the LPC Permit Guidebook and application forms. Preservation is a partnership between owners, their agents, and LPC, and by making this information more accessible and the process easier, we can make the preservation of New York City’s rich historic and architectural heritage a success.”
Daniel Mackay, Deputy Commissioner for Historic Preservation at the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation stated, “The completion of the new Landmarks Preservation Commission’s updated permit guidebook sets a model for preservation commissions statewide. Many municipalities in Long Island and upstate draw influence from LPC’s administration of historic resources. By partnering on this new resource, the New York State Historic Preservation Office hopes to share the guidebook with other commissions looking to adopt these best practice procedures for working with the public.”
To view the new guidebook, click here.
By: Veronica Rose (Veronica is the CityLaw fellow and a New York Law School graduate, Class of 2018.)