German Village Commission
The German Village Commission and the German Village Historic District were established by Ordinance # 976-60 and 1221-60 in 1960. The Commission Guidelines were adopted in 1989. The German Village Commission consists of seven (7) mayoral appointees who serve without compensation. It is the duty of the Commission to preserve, protect and enhance the unique architectural and historical features of the German Village Historic District.
The Commission considers applications and issues Certificates of Appropriateness for exterior alterations at properties located within the German Village Historic District boundaries, pursuant to Columbus City Code chapters 3116 and 3119 and the German Village District Guidelines.
Commission Meetings
When: First Wednesday of every month @ 4:00 pm
Where: City of Columbus, 111 N. Front St., 2nd Floor in room 204 (Hearing Room)
Parking: Free parking available – Enter from Ludlow St. off W. Long St. Map here
Purpose
Any exterior changes to your home must go through the German Village Commission to receive a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA). There are two important reasons for this:
- To ensure that any changes are consistent with the German Village Guidelines
- To document the changes to these historic properties over time
This page will provide some information/resources needed for a successful application.
Process
- Determine the scope of work and whether you will be engaging an architect/contractor or performing the work yourself. It is highly recommended to engage a professional early in the process. If you need help finding a contractor with experience in historic districts, our partners at Columbus Landmarks Foundation can make recommendations.
- Refer to the German Village Guidelines for guidance and recommendations. The guidelines are not intended to be read as restrictions – they are more like a “cheat sheet” to maintaining your historic property and getting your work done as quickly and painlessly as possible! The guidelines were a joint effort between German Village residents, the City of Columbus, and specialists in architecture and historic preservation, and inside you will find hints about how to handle just about any situation you may encounter, from simple things like new paint or replacing a door to major renovations, additions, or new buildings.
- Log into your account (or create a new account) with the City of Columbus Citizens Access Portal. Once logged in, you will Create an Application under the “Planning Section.” Once you accept the terms, you will be given a choice of which Board/Commission you are looking for approval from. Select German Village Commission and begin the application by entering your address and property owner information. The portal will then walk you through the application process. You will be given the choice to add “Additional Contacts,” which can be your contractor or project manager. Then you will provide the project details and photos, drawings, or other attachments that are necessary for the application.
- You must submit your application no less than one month prior to the hearing at which you would like to be heard.
Resources
German Village Commission – general information, commissioner roster, meeting schedule, meeting agendas/minutes