Preservation Review Guide
Navigate the historic preservation review process for your Cleveland Park property
If you're planning to make changes to a property in Cleveland Park's historic district, this guide will help you understand the what, who, and how of the process.
First Things First: Are You in the Historic District?
Check if your property is within the Cleveland Park Historic District using this map.
Do You Need Preservation Review?
Only projects that require a DC building permit also require historic preservation review.
No Preservation Review Needed for:
- Regular maintenance or repairs
- Painting (except on certain landmark masonry)
- Gutters, storm windows, screens
- Interior-only renovations
Preservation Review Required for:
- Replacing windows, doors, roofs, or any architectural feature
- Additions or major renovations
Who Reviews Your Project?
Preservation review happens at both the city and neighborhood levels:
City-Level (DC Government)
HPRB (Historic Preservation Review Board):
Reviews big projects.
HPO (Historic Preservation Office):
Handles most cases at the staff level. Each historic district has an assigned staff member.
Contact HPO: (202) 442-7600
Neighborhood-Level
The ARC (Architectural Review Committee):
Part of the Cleveland Park Historical Society. Offers expert input.
ANCs (Advisory Neighborhood Commissions):
- 3A & 3C: Most of Cleveland Park
- 3F: Small eastern portion; does not typically review preservation cases
All these groups give advisory feedback, but their input carries weight with HPO and HPRB.
What's the Process?
Here's the general flow:
- Start with HPO: Describe your project. They'll guide you on next steps.
- If Full Review Is Needed:
- Contact the ARC and your local ANC (3A or 3C).
- Schedule your presentation for review meetings.
- Attend Reviews:
- ARC: 2nd Monday of each month (via Zoom)
- ANC 3C: 1st Monday of the month
- ANC 3A: 2nd Tuesday of the month
Presenting to the ARC
Architects typically lead the presentation. Required materials include:
- Existing and proposed plans/elevations
- 3D renderings
- Site and context maps
- Photos showing how additions may be visible from public areas
Submit materials by the Friday before the meeting: staff@clevelandparkhistoricalsociety.org
Can Neighbors Weigh In?
Yes! If your project goes to HPRB:
- Neighbors will be notified and can request project plans
- Signs will be posted at your property
- Public comments are welcome at ARC, ANC, and HPRB meetings
- Neighbors can also submit written feedback
Note: ARC focuses on historic and design issues. Concerns about parking, noise, or zoning? Bring those to the ANC.
Special Situations
Some homes have extra layers of oversight:
- Conservation Easements: You must get approval from the easement holder (like L'Enfant Trust).
- Shipstead-Luce Area: If your property borders Rock Creek Park, it may also be reviewed by the Commission of Fine Arts.
Need Additional Help?
The Cleveland Park Historical Society is here to assist you through the preservation review process. Our Architectural Review Committee can provide guidance before you begin your project.