The BHAR supports and furtherance of its findings and determination that the historical, cultural, and aesthetic heritage of the City of Columbus is among its most valued and important assets. The preservation of this heritage is essential to the promotion of the health, prosperity and general welfare of the people. Its functions include:

• To stimulate revitalization of the business districts and historic neighborhoods and to protect and enhance local historical and aesthetic attractions to tourists and thereby promote and stimulate business;
• To enhance the opportunities for federal and/or state tax benefits under relevant provisions of federal or state law;
• To provide for the designation, protection, preservation and rehabilitation of historic properties and historic districts and to participate in federal or state programs to do the same.

The board shall consist of eleven members appointed by the Council of Columbus. All members shall be residents of the City of Columbus and shall be persons who have demonstrated special interest, experience or education in history, architecture or the preservation of historic resources.

What process is involved in the historic review of any property?

A Certificate of Appropriateness is required for any change in materials or appearance to the exterior of a designated historic property prior to beginning construction.  Common alterations that must be approved include but are not limited to:  addition of fences, construction of decks, porches and ramps, and demolition of any structure in the historic districts. Additional information is available by clicking the "Design Guidelines" link below.  The Board of Historic and Architectural Review meets the second Monday of every month at 3:30 pm in the Government Center Annex Conference Room.  Complete applications and all supporting documents must be received in the Planning Division office by 5 pm fourteen days prior, on the last Monday of the previous month.  Click on the "Dates & Deadlines" tab below to view current meeting and deadline dates.  If your case has been approved by the Board, the Certificate of Approval can be picked up from the Planning Division on the Monday following the meeting. Please call for more information.

To view the complete Board of Historic and Architectural Review Ordinance click here

Design Guidelines	Members	Application	Meeting Schedule & Deadlines
Reference for property owners in historic districts. Contains policies and procedures, examples of appropriate designs and guidelines for changes to the exterior of such structures.	BHAR Member List	Application for a Certificate of Appropriateness.	Meeting dates and application deadlines.