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The Historic Review Commission of Pittsburgh was established in 1979 to administer the historic district and structures designated by Pittsburgh City Council. It is made up of seven citizens. appointed by the Mayor, who meet once a month to review all proposals for exterior alterations, new construction, and demolition of building in the historic districts. Property owners are not required to make any changes to their buildings. However, if any exterior work is desired whether or not it requires a building permit, it must first be reviewed and approved by the HRC, which then issues a Certificate of Appropriateness for the work. Interior alterations and the use of buildings are not subject to the review of the Commission.
All owners who wish to make exterior alterations (including repairs, cleaning, and painting) must apply with the historic preservation planner on the staff of the Department of City Planning. Minor and routine work, such as repairs, can sometimes be approved by the staff, all other items must be reviewed by the Commission.
The Commission uses the federal Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation as the basis of its review. The goal of the guidelines is to retain the distinctive and historic character for the neighborhood without placing undue financial burdens or time delays on building owner and residents. For example, the guidelines recommend that windows and door openings not be enlarged or fitted in, that exterior replacement items (such as doors and windows) be similar in design and materials to the originals, and that new exterior paint colors be compatible with other building colors in the neighborhood. The guidelines can be used as a guide to planning an exterior renovation project; in addition, the Commission and its staff are ready at anytime to personally assist building owners and residents in the neighborhood.
