17.90.070 Historic districts.
A. For the purposes of this section, a district is a geographically definable area including a concentration, linkage or continuity of sites, buildings, structures and/or objects. A district is related by a pattern of either physical elements or social activities.
B. Significance is determined by applying criteria to the pattern(s) and unifying element(s).
C. Nominations will not be approved unless the application contains written approval from owners of at least seventy percent of the properties within the district boundaries.
D. Properties that do not contribute to the significance of the historic district may be included within the boundaries as long as the noncontributing elements do not noticeably detract from the district’s sense of time, place and historical development. Noncontributing elements will be evaluated for their magnitude of impact by considering their size, scale, design, location, and/or information potential.
E. District boundaries will be defined by visual changes, historical documentation of different associations or patterns of development, or evidence of changes in site type or site density as established through testing or survey.
F. When districts are designated, applicable design guidelines and other appropriate restrictions may be included as part of the designation.
G. In addition to meeting at least one of the criteria outlined in subsection 17.90.070(H) below, the designated contributing sites and structures within the district must be at least fifty years old. The district could be exempt from the age standard if the resources are found to be exceptionally important in other significant criteria.
H. Historic districts shall meet one or more of the following:
1. Architectural:
a. Exemplifies specific elements of an architectural style or period;
b. Is an example of the work of an architect or builder who is recognized for expertise nationally, state-wide, regionally or locally;
c. Demonstrates superior craftsmanship or high artistic value;
d. Represents an innovation in construction, materials or design;
e. Represents a built environment of a group of people in an era of history;
f. Exhibits a pattern or grouping of elements representing at least one of the above criteria; or
g. Is a significant historic remodel.
2. Cultural:
a. Is the site of an historic event that had an effect on society;
b. Exemplifies cultural, political, economic or social heritage of the community; or
c. Is associated with a notable person(s) or the work of a notable person(s).
3. Geographic/environmental:
a. Enhances sense of identity of the community; or
b. Is an established and familiar natural setting or visual feature of the community.
4. Archaeology/subsurface:
a. Has the potential to make an important contribution to the area’s history or prehistory;
b. Is associated with an important event in the area’s development;
c. Is associated with a notable person(s) or the work of a notable person(s);
d. Has distinctive characteristics of a type, period or manner of construction;
e. Is of geographical importance. (Ord. 08-11 (part), 2008)