The Board grants Certificates of Appropriateness for the erection, reconstruction, alteration, restoration, demolition or removal of any historic building, structure, or area within the City's Tourist/Historic District.

What is the Board of Architectural Review?
This Board is established by the City Zoning Ordinance and consists of seven Hopewell citizens appointed by the City Council.  The purpose of the Board is to study proposals and grant Certificates of Appropriateness for the erection, reconstruction, alteration, restoration, demolition or removal of any historic building, structure, or area within the City's Tourist/Historic District.  It may also investigate and recommend on other buildings, structures, places, or areas in the City having historic interest or value.  They work concurrently with citizens, organizations, City, State, and Federal governments, to develop and preserve the uniqueness of all recognized Tourist/Historic Districts in the City.

How does being in a Tourist/Historic District affect my property?
Property in the Tourist/Historic District is subject to the rules and regulations of the Tourist/Historic District Article of the City's Zoning Ordinance and the Board of Architectural Review.  In addition to the other rules and regulations of the City, no one may erect, reconstruct, or alter, restore, demolish or remove a building or areas without approval from the Board of Architectural Review.

When would the Board become involved with my property and me?
The Board would like to consult with you and help you plan any work which will affect the exterior architectural appearance (architectural character, general arrangement of the exterior of a structure; general composition, including the kind, color and texture of the building material; type and character of all windows, doors, light fixtures, signs, appurtenant elements, landscaping and fencing) subject to public view from a public street, way or other public place.

Why must I adhere to Tourist/Historic District requirements if my home is not "Historic"?
While many structures in the district are not "Historic", their presence within the boundaries of the district causes them to have a relationship with the other qualifying structures.  The goal of the Tourist/Historic District is to create and preserve the elements which best denote the original concept of the City Point Area as a commercial and residential town.

What are the Board of Architectural Review's procedures?
Once a person has decided precisely how he intends to erect, reconstruct, alter or restore a building or structure, application is made to the Board for a Certificate of Appropriateness.  The Board studies the proposal and meets approximately 20 days from the date of the application submission to discuss the proposal.  The Board's decision will come within 60 days of the meeting.  An appeal of any decision of the Board must be taken to the City Council of Hopewell.  Other procedures, including a duly advertised public hearing apply when the demolition of a building or structure is under consideration.