Living in a Historic District:

What Does It Mean for You?

Can I remodel the interior of my home without a Historic Resource Review?

Yes. Interior alterations are not subject to Historic Resource Review. Historic resource review would be required if the interior changes resulted in an exterior alteration such as relocation, introduction, or removal of a window or door, for instance.

Will I be limited in the colors I can paint my house?

No. Paint color selection is not a part of the design guidelines and colors are not regulated through Historic Resource Review. Routine repair and maintenance are also exempt from Historic Resource Review.

Do I need Historic Resource Review to re-roof my house?

Not for typical asphalt composition shingle or other original roofing replacement, which is considered repair under City Code. This includes replacement of the plywood sheathing under the roofing materials. However, a change from one roofing material to another (from ceramic tile to composition shingles, for example) or damage to or replacement of surrounding architectural elements may require a Historic Resource Review.

Are there limits on what plants and landscaping I can add to the grounds around my home?

No. Fences, street walls, patios, plant selection, and low-level decks (18 inches and below) are not subject to Historic Resource Review.

Will I be able to add an addition or expansion to my house?

Yes. Any expansion to a house in a historic district (and any brand new construction) should be scaled and sized to fit the immediate character of surrounding homes and buildings. Beyond that, for non-contributing structures the basic requirement is that the materials and detailing should be consistent with that of the rest of the property and fit the overall character of the district. Much more attention is paid to expansions of contributing, secondary, and primary structures, and alterations that compromise the historic look and feel of the street-facing elevations should be avoided. On the other hand, historic preservation principles support additions at the back and/or sides that do not visually overwhelm the historic part of the building or create an overall out-of-scale structure relationship to their immediate surroundings. All such additions to contributing, secondary, and primary houses should be compatible with the architectural style, materials, and details of the historic part of the property. That said, ultimately remodeling and renovation decisions are up to the homeowner as long as they comply with local zoning codes.

Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) allowed in a historic district?

Yes. An accessory dwelling is allowed. Property owners are strongly encourage to align the design with the architectural character of the existing house and whatever design guidelines there are for the district. If the ADU is an interior remodel with no exterior impacts, it would not require a Historic Resource Review.

Are solar panels or skylights allowed in historic districts?

Yes. This depends on the siting of the house and the design of the solar array. The purpose is to ensure that solar panels are minimally visible from the street. In most cases, front street elevation skylights are discouraged, although ultimately the decision is up to the homeowner, although such changes must meet local zoning codes.

Are there any “open house” requirements for houses in historic districts?

No.

Where can I get more information about historic preservation and historic districts in Oregon?

Restore Oregon is an excellent first stop in learning more about historic preservation in the state. For information specific to Eugene, go to the city Planning Department's site on Historic Preservation.