Georgetown D.C. Historic Preservation

Georgetown, the oldest historic district in the District of Columbia, is a world-renowned neighborhood - a living, bricks-and-mortar reflection of the early years of the American Republic - and one of the most unique residential neighborhoods in the United States.

Congress passed the Old Georgetown Act in 1950 (Public Law 81-808), which set forth and designated the Georgetown Historic District.

The Act defined the boundaries of historic Georgetown as we know it today and gave the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) the authority to appoint a committee, the Old Georgetown Board (OBG), to conduct design reviews of semi-public and private structures within Georgetown's boundaries.

Generations of Georgetowners have been protected by legislation, regulation, and private action to maintain the celebrated character of our historic neighborhood.

This law and the substantial volunteer activity by citizens over the years provides a concrete reminder that living in Georgetown is both a privilege and a responsibility.

Only by working together can the ambience of Georgetown, enjoyed today by residents, business owners, and visitors, be preserved.

Anyone considering construction or remodeling in Georgetown should be aware of their responsibilities.

This brochure gives an overview of the permit review process and lists sources for more complete information.

It briefly describes when you need a permit, how you apply for a permit, who reviews your application, and details the main steps in the process.

It also provides some practical guidance designed to help you avoid common mistakes, and thereby expedite your review process.

What every Georgetowner wants and needs to know about historic preservation is now summarized in a helpful brochure available free from CAG.

The Guide explains the evolution and boundaries of Old Georgetown and presents suggestions about evaluating and respecting historic property, practical information on applying for permits, tips on working with neighbors, and guidance on applicable standards and zoning regulations.

The new Guide to Historic Preservation Work in Georgetown (in PDF format)outlines the process of project design approval and the roles of the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB), the US Commission of Fines Arts (CFA) and the Old Georgetown Board (OGB) and the Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC). What for many Georgetowners is an alphabet soup is concisely explained and useful links to more detailed information is provided.

Every Georgetown resident – and prospective resident – will find this a handy and useful booklet. Copies are readily available from the CAG office (202-337-7313) or you can print the pages from this website.

For more information or to join CAG's efforts, contact:

Citizens Association of Georgetown
1365 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 200
Washington DC 20007
Phone: 202.337.7313 | FAX: 202.333.1088
cagmail@cagtown.org
www.cagtown.org