Designation is an honor, meaning the community believes the architecture, history and character of the area are worthy of recognition and protection, Historic district designation is designed to protect and enhance the existing character of a community. Yes, public comment is an important part of the designation process. By law, property owners in a proposed historic district must be notified of the proposal so that they may appear and comment on it during the public hearings of the Historic Preservation Commission, the Regional Planning Commission and the Hickory City Council. Call the Historic Preservation Office at 261-2206. They can tell you whether your property falls within the boundaries of a local historic district or a proposed one.
Maps are available upon request.
Historic Districts are not designed to prevent changes. Rather, they assist in shaping changes that enhance the historic assets that make a district unique. This process ensures that proposed work is compatible with the nature of the historic property and contributes to the character of the historic district as a whole. Plans for exterior alternations, new construction, demolition, or moving of buildings are reviewed before work may begin, and the permit issued. This includes plans for additions to existing buildings, removal or enclosure of porches or change of materials from the original or existing detail.