Historic Alteration Review - Colorado Springs Guide

Land Use and Zoning Colorado 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of Colorado
Colorado Springs, Colorado homeowners in locally designated historic districts must follow the city's historic alteration review process before altering character-defining features. The Historic Preservation Office explains designation, review triggers, and the design standards used by staff and the Historic Preservation Commission; apply early to avoid delays and to confirm whether a Certificate of Appropriateness is required. City Historic Preservation Office[1]

What is historic alteration review?

Historic alteration review evaluates proposed changes to exterior materials, windows, doors, porches, rooflines, and site elements on properties within local historic districts or for individually designated landmarks. The review ensures changes are compatible with the district's or property's historic character and with the city's preservation design standards. Typical review types include administrative staff review, review by the Historic Preservation Commission, and exemption determinations for minor repairs.

Start by contacting the Historic Preservation Office early in your project.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of historic preservation requirements is carried out by the city's Planning and Development Services and the Historic Preservation Office; penalties and enforcement procedures are set by municipal code and associated regulations. Specific fines, escalation amounts, and some non-monetary sanctions are not specified on the cited page and require reference to the controlling code or enforcement notices for exact figures.[1]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code or enforcement notice for amounts and per-day calculations.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences — ranges not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, restoration orders, or court action may be used where unauthorised alterations are found.
  • Enforcer and inspections: Planning and Development Services and the Historic Preservation Office conduct reviews and respond to complaints; contact information is on city pages.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes to the Historic Preservation Commission or city boards are used; specific time limits for filing appeals are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

The common application is a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) or equivalent design review application; the city publishes application details and submittal requirements through the Historic Preservation Office and Planning & Development Services. Exact form names, numbers, fees, and electronic submission portals are not specified on the cited page; call or visit the office to obtain current forms and fee schedules.[1]

If in doubt, submit drawings and photos with any application to speed review.

How the review process typically works

  • Pre-application consultation: discuss scope, materials, and whether review is required.
  • Submit application: include plans, photos, and narratives describing the work and materials.
  • Staff review or commission hearing: staff may approve administratively; significant changes may require a public hearing.
  • Permit issuance: after design approval, obtain building permits if the work requires them.

FAQ

Do I need approval to replace windows on a historic house?
Often yes: replacing character-defining elements such as windows usually triggers review; contact the Historic Preservation Office to confirm whether your work qualifies for an exemption or requires a Certificate of Appropriateness.[1]
How long does review take?
Timing varies by project complexity and whether the case goes to the Historic Preservation Commission; specific typical timelines are not specified on the cited page, so ask staff for estimates when you submit.[1]
What happens if I alter my property without approval?
Unapproved alterations may result in enforcement actions, stop-work orders, required restoration, and fines; exact penalties are set in municipal rules and are not specified on the cited page.[1]

How-To

  1. Confirm designation: check whether your property is in a local historic district or listed as a landmark.
  2. Contact the Historic Preservation Office for a pre-application review and guidance.
  3. Prepare application materials: site photos, elevations, material specs, and a written justification referencing design standards.
  4. Submit the COA or design review application and pay any applicable fees as instructed by staff.
  5. Attend the public hearing if required and respond to conditions; obtain building permits after approval.

Key Takeaways

  • Early contact with the Historic Preservation Office reduces delays and clarifies required documentation.
  • Many exterior changes require a Certificate of Appropriateness or administrative review.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Colorado Springs Historic Preservation Office

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