What are the advantages of design review in the Central Business District?

There are a number of advantages of design review in the Central Business District, including:

Protects property investments and values.

Preserves and enhances the area's character and scale.

Encourages compatible infill construction.

Promotes a pleasant, rich and diverse pedestrian experience.

Discourages demolition of historic properties.

Additionally, income tax credits, property tax credits, and loan programs may also be available for certain types of improvements.
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What is the role of the Design and Preservation Commission?

The Design and Preservation Commission serves the public as the steward for the preservation overlay districts and as a facilitator to property owners in the districts. The DPC works with City staff to ensure that the historical integrity of a district is maintained by reviewing any proposed exterior alterations, demolition or new construction within the districts. Additionally, the DPC recommends properties for designation as new preservation overlay districts and for expansion of existing districts. The DPC and staff can provide assistance, at no charge, to owners by helping them plan alterations they may be considering and guide owners through the application process necessary to implement any changes.
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How does design review in the Central Business District affect me as a property owner?

The Greenville Design & Preservation Commission protects the rights and investments of property owners and business establishments through a design review process called a Certificate of Appropriateness. Any exterior alteration to a building located in the CBD is required to conform to design guidelines created for the district, to avoid unsympathetic changes to the building. By maintaining and enhancing the visual character of a district, the DPC ensures that future generations will enjoy the benefits of Greenville's rich architectural heritage.
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Can I still make changes to my property ?

Yes, you can still make changes to your property. However, prior to any exterior alteration, demolition or new construction, a Certificate of Appropriateness must be approved. This is to ensure that proposed alterations are in keeping with the character and scale of the district in general. Work which requires a Certificate of Appropriateness includes:

New exterior paint colors
Changing doors and windows
Changes to storefronts
Signs and awnings
Parking lots and garages
Demolition and new construction

While significant projects require review and approval by the Greenville Design & Preservation Commission, many minor projects can be approved by City Staff. Moreover, routine maintenance and repair, when materials and design remain the same, as well as interior work, do not require a Certificate of Appropriateness.
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How will the design guidelines affect functional concerns for a property?

While appearance is important, properties must also be safe, functional and easy to maintain. In general, the design guidelines take these interests into consideration and recommend practical, cost-effective alternatives that will be compatible with the context.
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Will the DPC consider cost and affordability?

In specific cases where affordability becomes an important issue, the DPC will work with the applicant to try to find an alternative that should be satisfactory to all. However, any such solution must still meet the overall intent of the design guidelines and the enabling ordinance of the DPC.

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How do I apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness?

Application forms and meeting schedules are available from the City of Greenville Zoning Office, 206 S. Main Street, (864) 467-4476. Or click below:
Application for Certificate of Appropriateness
DPC Meeting Schedule

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What kind of assistance is available to help me in the planning process?

The design guidelines for the district in which your property is located are an invaluable tool for establishing an appropriate direction for the design of a project. City Staff and the DPC are also available to review and offer comments on preliminary plans, before a design is finalized.
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What happens if I make a change without appropriate approval from the DPC?

Making unapproved changes is a violation of the City Code. When the DPC becomes aware of an unapproved change, it will, as a matter of policy, offer the owner an opportunity to correct the violation. Depending on the specifics of the project, the DPC may take remedial action which could result in a fine or an order to restore the building to its original condition. A stop work order may also be issued for work in progress.
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Is design review constitutional?

The courts have recognized the importance of preserving the character of a community. In 1978, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the legality of design review as a planning tool. It stated, "The object of preserving areas with specific historic or cultural significance is an entirely permissible government goal. States and cities may enact land use restrictions or controls to enhance the quality of life by preserving the character and desirable aesthetic features of a city."
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Can I appeal the decision of the Design & Preservation Commission?

Yes, there are several options available. If the DPC has denied your Certificate of Appropriateness, you may revise your proposal to address the Commission's reasons for denial, and resubmit your request. You may also apply for a Certificate of Unreasonable Hardship if the Commission's denial has certain affects on your property. The Commission's denial of a Certificate of Appropriateness or a Certificate of Unreasonable Hardship may be appealed to Circuit Court, if you believe the decision was illegal.
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Is financial assistance available for making improvements to properties in the Central Business District?

Yes. The City of Greenville has established a loan program with local banks, which offer loans at the prime rate. These loans may be used for facade and other improvements when retail shops or upper-story residential units are to be established. [Contact the City's Economic Development Office at (864) 467-4401 for more information.]
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Are there any incentives available for rehabilitation of historic properties in the CBD?

Yes. The City of Greenville participates in a special property tax assessment program for qualifying projects which rehabilitate residential and income-producing properties. Qualified expenditures may also be deducted from federal income taxes through the Rehabilitation Investment Income Tax Credit. Both of these programs require that the project be approved and certified by the South Carolina Department of Archives and History. [For more information on these programs contact the City of Greenville Economic Development Office at (864) 467-4401 or the South Carolina Department of Archives and History at (803) 896-6174.]
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Is there a difference between design review in the Central Business District and the West End Historic District?

Yes. Many properties in the West End area are located in a preservation overlay district. Although they may also be in the Central Business District, they are reviewed under stricter design guidelines found in Design Guidelines for Preservation Overlay Districts in Greenville, South Carolina. Many other buildings exist in the CBD which are considered to have historic significance, but have not been officially designated as such by City Council. In this case, the property owner has the option of using either set of design guidelines in planning the project, and the DPC will review the project based on the set of design guidelines used.
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