Commission of Architectural Review

In keeping with Sec. 30-930.6 of the Zoning Ordinance, the Secretary of the Commission of Architectural Review may approve certain types of projects.  Examples of project types the Secretary can approve include: painting, replacement doors and porch decking, new handrails and porch rails, porch roof replacements, and exterior storm windows and doors. All staff approvals require an application and specifications about the project including: materials, colors, and photographs of the existing conditions and proposed plans (depending on the project types). The Secretary cannot approve projects that require public notice under the same section.  Below are the Guidelines for administrative approvals:

• ADA Site and Building Enhancements
• Doors
• Exterior Storm Windows and Doors
• Fences and Gates
• Fiber Cement Siding
• Gutters
• Hand and Porch Rails
• Hardscaping
• HVAC
• Light Fixtures
• Porch Decking
• Porch Roof Replacement
• Reconstruction of Missing Historic Elements
• Removal of Non-Contributing Materials Features
• Signage
• Tax Credit Projects
• Windows

The CAR is composed of nine members appointed by City Council. Six of the members are citizens-at-large while the remaining three are appointed from a list of nominees from The American Institute of Architects Richmond (Virginia) Chapter, the Historic Richmond Foundation, and the Richmond Association of Realtors. At least one member of the Commission must reside within a City Old and Historic District.

The current members are as follows.

The CAR meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, except in December when it meets on the third Tuesday. Special meetings are held as necessary.

• Certificate of Appropriateness Application
• Submittal Checklist and Instructions for Building Alterations and Additions
• Submittal Checklist and Instructions for New Construction
• Submittal Checklist and Instructions for Demolitions
• Commission of Architectural Review Color Palette

For a Certificate of Appropriateness, the Commission of Architectural Review requires one signed copy of the application and plans to be submitted to alex.dandridge@rva.gov (with project address in the subject line) or sent to OneDrive.

 A printable version of CAR's Homeowner's Manual can be found under the "Quick Links" section on this page.

Why are fees being charged now?

Planning and Preservation has been the only division within the Department of Planning and Development Review that has not charged for applications. The fees established by City Council will help to cover costs associated with reviewing and processing applications, including public notification requirements and staff time.

Are there fees for all projects?

No. Applications that can be administratively approved by staff and conceptual reviews will not be charged a fee. In general applications that require fees include new construction including additions and accessory buildings, changes to approved plans, extensions to Certificates of Appropriateness, and full demolitions.

Does my application require a fee?

The fee schedule for applications for Certificates of Appropriateness can be found below. For questions regarding fees for specific applications please contact Planning and Preservation staff.

How do I pay the fee?

Applicants will receive an invoice through the City's Online Permitting Portal (OPP). Invoices can be paid with a credit card. Visa, Master Card, or Discover are accepted. For more information please see the OPP User Guide, available on the City's website. Use this link to register for the OPP: https://energov.richmondgov.com/EnerGov_Prod/selfservice#/register.

When are fees due?

Once a complete application has been received, applicants who have pre-registered for the OPP will receive an email directing them to an invoice in the OPP. Invoices must be paid before an application can be scheduled for a Commission meeting. Incomplete applications will not be invoiced and will be returned to the applicant.

How can I prevent a delay in scheduling my application for Commission review?

Billing contacts must be registered for the OPP prior to receiving an invoice. We recommend registering for the OPP prior to submitting an application. Applicants that have not pre-registered for OPP will be contacted by staff. Incomplete applications cannot be invoiced or scheduled for review. Staff is happy to informally review applications for completeness prior to the submittal deadline. Invoices should be paid as soon as they are received. If payment is not received, the application cannot be placed on the agenda.

What is the fee for the extension of a COA? Is this an on-going fee?

No. This fee is generally for projects that have approval from the Commission but have not yet received permits and require additional review and coordination by staff.

Commission of Architectural Review Fees Brochure