What needs a COA
| Project | Contributing building | Noncontributing building |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior alterations | COA required | COA required |
| Additions | COA required | COA required |
| Demolition or relocation | COA required | No COA |
| Ordinary maintenance and repair | No COA | No COA |
How to get through review
- Use the free pre-application design review with city preservation staff.
- Follow your district’s design guidelines for additions, height and materials.
- Submit complete drawings and photos at least 22 days before the HAHC meeting.
- Plan the COA into your schedule before the building permit.
If you skip it
Work done without a required COA can lead to stop-work orders, fines and orders to restore or remove the work.
Common questions
Do I need a COA to replace windows in a historic district?
Window replacement often changes exterior appearance, so check with city preservation staff; the city provides window worksheets for these applications.
How do I know if my house is in a historic district?
Check the City of Houston’s historic preservation maps or call the Office of Preservation at 832-393-6556.
Sources
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules change; confirm details with the agency named in the sources or a licensed professional.