What are the three different types of certificates?

Certificate of Appropriateness, Certificate of Non-Applicability, and Certificate of Hardship. For more specifics please see MGL, Chapter 40C, Section 10. 

A Certificate of Appropriateness is issued if the Commission determines that the construction or alteration in an application will be appropriate for or compatible with the preservation or protection of the historic district.

A Certificate of Non-Applicability is issued if the Commission determines that the construction or alteration in an application does not involve any exterior architectural feature or interior fixtures and
features visible from a public way.

A Certificate of Hardship is issued if the Commission determines that failure to approve an application will involve a substantial hardship, financial or otherwise, to the applicant and that the application may be approved without substantial detriment to the public welfare and without substantial derogation from the intent and purposes of MGL, Ch 40C.

Show All Answers

1. How do I know if my property is within the Historic District?
2. What activities are within the jurisdiction of the Historical Commission?
3. What are the three different types of certificates?
4. What activities don’t require an application to the Historical Commission?
5. Do I need to hire an architect or engineer as part of my application?