3.24.260 Permit application--Review standards and criteria.
A. The commission shall be guided by the standards in this section in its review of permit applications for work on a landmark site, in an historic district or on a structure of merit site. In appraising the effects and relationships mentioned herein, the commission shall in all cases consider the architectural style, appearance, arrangement, height, design, texture, materials, color and appurtenances and such other facts as may be relevant.
B. In all instances, the proposed work shall be as appropriate for and as consistent with the purposes of this chapter as is possible within the peculiar circumstances of the owner of the property and preservation or enhancement of the characteristics and particular features specified in the designation.
C. Approval of permit applications pursuant to this section may be granted only upon determination that the proposal conforms to the criteria set forth in paragraphs 1. and 2. below:
1. For permit applications for construction, alteration or repair:
(a) For applications relating to landmark sites, the proposed work shall not adversely affect the exterior architectural features of the landmark and, where specified in the designation for a publicly owned landmark, its major interior architectural features; nor shall the proposed work adversely affect the special character or special historical, architectural or aesthetic interest or value of the landmark and its site, as viewed both in themselves and in their setting.
(b) For applications relating to property in historic districts, the proposed work shall not adversely affect the exterior architectural features of the subject property or the relationship and congruity between the subject structure or feature and its neighboring structures and surroundings, including facade, setback and height; nor shall the proposed work adversely affect the special character or special historical, architectural or aesthetic interest or value of the district. The proposed work shall also conform to such further standards as may be embodied in the designation of the historic district.
(c) For applications relating to structure of merit sites, the proposed work shall not adversely affect the architectural features if architectural merit is the basis for designation; nor shall the proposed work adversely affect the special cultural, educational or historical interest or value if that is the basis for designation.
2. For permit applications for demolition: the commission shall find that the designated landmark, historic district or structure of merit or portion thereof is in such condition that it is not feasible to preserve or restore it, taking into consideration the economic feasibility of alternatives to the proposal, and balancing the interest of the public in preserving the designated landmark, historic district or structure of merit or portion thereof and the interest of the owner of the landmark site, historic district, or structure of merit site in its utilization. (Ord. 5686-NS § 1 (part), 1985: Ord. 4694-NS § 6.2, 1974)