Approval Process

An application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (CoA) must be received in the Planning Office of the Planning and Neighborhood Department, 316 N. Capitol Avenue, Suite D-1, Lansing, MI 48933-1236, a minimum of 21 days before the Historic District Commission meeting at which the application will be on the agenda for review. The commission generally meets monthly. (see schedule) 

You are encouraged to schedule a preliminary meeting with staff and/or the Historic District Commission prior to the formal consideration of the application. The commission reviews proposed alterations or additions to the exterior of a structure, new construction and demolition of any structure within the Historic District. 

The following information shall be attached to the application for a CoA. Additional information is encouraged:

  • A copy of plans drawn to a legible scale depicting the proposed alteration including size, a detailed description of materials and finishing work to be completed. Plans should be easily reproduced on 8 1/2"x 11" or 8 1/2" x 14" format.
  • Site plans (where applicable) should show existing property lines, setbacks, access points, structures, parking, and any prominent features on the site.
  • A minimum of the following photographs labeled to indicate the direction of the view:
    • Current photograph of the structure as seen from the street;
    • Photograph of existing architectural detail or feature prior to proposed alteration.
  • Examples of actual replacement materials and/or catalog descriptions should be included where appropriate.