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Bay Village Historic District

The Bay Village Historic District was designated in 1983.

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The Bay Village Historic District Commission (BVHDC) meets the second Tuesday of each month to review proposed exterior design changes and alterations. Interested in becoming a commissioner? Please see details about nomination in the district's Study Report and check the commission information section at the bottom of this page. If you see an "apply online" button, we have an opening on the commission and you're able to apply for it.

Design Review Process

All proposed exterior work (including work at rooftops) that is, or will be visible from any public way is subject to the review of the BVHDC.  You must submit a Design Approval Application to the Commission and it must be approved by the Commission before beginning any exterior work that is subject to Commission review.

APPLY FOR DESIGN REVIEW ONLINE

  • To save time and costs, contact staff early in the  planning process to determine project compliance with guidelines.
  • Review all instructions and documentation requirements before submitting your application to ensure it is complete. Only complete applications will be added to a public hearing agenda.
  • Submit your application online well in advance of a filing deadline in case it is marked incomplete and additional or revised information needs to be submitted.
  • Staff is not available to review applications for completeness immediately upon submittal.
  • Do not begin any work, or buy materials until after you have received confirmation your project has been approved.
History

Prior to 1825 the Bay Village area consisted of mudflats created by Back Bay tides. Once construction of a dam was authorized and the land drained, construction began almost immediately. Early deeds restricted height and construction materials, as a result, the major streets tend to be visually similar; red brick was the building material of choice, often with a granite foundation. Most Bay Village buildings were constructed between 1825 and 1899 and represent a variety of architectural styles, ranging from Federal to Greek Revival to Victorian. 

For further historical background, please check out the Bay Village Historic District Study Report.

Resources

Resources
1. CHECK TO SEE IF YOU'RE IN THE DISTRICT:
2. FIND OUT WHAT WORK IS ALLOWED:
3. WHEN CAN MY APPLICATION GET ON THE AGENDA?
4. APPLY FOR WORK
5. RECEIVE DECISION LETTER
  • Once your application has been ruled on by the commission, your decision letter will be emailed to you.
  • If approved, use the decision letter to obtain your building permit with the building department. Be sure to display your approval placard on site, visible to the public, for the duration of the project. 
2020 Agendas
2019 Agendas
2018 Agendas
2020 meeting minutes
2019 meeting minutes
2018 meeting minutes
BVHD 2020 Recordings
BVHD 2019 Recordings
BVHD 2018 Recordings

Commission Info

  • Department:
    Environment Dept
  • Authority:
    City
  • Term:
    3 years
  • Stipend:
    No
  • Total Seats:
    8
Resources:
Enabling legislation
Boards and commissions information
We have openings:
Apply online

Current members

Member Appointed Expires Status
Anne Kilguss 9/23/2016 6/30/2019 Holdover
Stephen Dunwell 3/27/2024 4/1/2026 Holdover
Lora Shea 3/27/2024 4/1/2026 Active
Katherine Sikora Nelson 3/27/2024 4/1/2026 Active
Senam Kumahia 3/27/2024 4/1/2025 Active

Meet the Bay Village Planner

Bay Village Planner
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