The Historic Preservation Office (HPO) signs off on all applications to subdivide property in the District of Columbia. HPO reviews routine and minor subdivisions of historic property, while the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) considers those that may affect the character of a historic property. Review by the Mayor's Agent is required for proposals to separate land from a historic landmark.
Why does HPO review all subdivision applications?
HPO clearance ensures that any subdivision of historic property is reviewed for compatibility with its historic character. HPO clears without review all subdivisions that do not involve historic property.
What kinds of subdivisions are subject to historic preservation review?
Preservation review is required for any subdivision of historic property involving either the division or assembly of land into one or more lots of record. It is also required for the division of any lot of record into theoretical building lots under Section 2516 of the DC Zoning Regulations.
Some properties in the District were historically assigned only an assessment and taxation (A&T) lot, usually a number in the 800s. If you want to alter or build an addition on one of these properties, the DC Surveyor must assign a new record lot number before you can obtain a permit. HPO clears these subdivisions routinely when it is clear they will not affect historic character. Conversion of recently created A&T lots may require a substantive review to evaluate possible effects on historic character.