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CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
Thursday, November 19, 2020 at 3:30 PM
Virtual Meeting
AGENDA
VIRTUAL MEETING NOTICE
The Historic District Commission Meeting for November 19, 2020 will be held only as a Virtual Meeting
using WebEx. Representatives of each Project Application will receive a specific invitation to attend this
meeting. Historic District Commission member participants will receive a specific invitation to attend the
meeting as a Panelist. Written comments are accepted via mail to City of Dover - Historic District
Commission, P.O. Box 475 Dover DE 19903 and via email at CompPlan@dover.de.us. The public is
welcome to attend the Meeting using the Public Participation Information given below.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION INFORMATION
City of Dover Historic District Commission Meeting of November 19, 2020
Dial: 1-408-418-9388
Event number/Access code: 173 154 7264
Event password: DoverHDC
Event Address:
https://cityofdoverde.webex.com/cityofdoverde/onstage/g.php?MTID=e5df44609493a9ffceb8e414183b
e2f8d
If you are new to WebEx get the app now at https://www.webex.com/ to be ready when the
meeting starts. For problems accessing the meeting, please call the Planning Office at (302) 736-
7196.
WELCOME to Historic District Commission Virtual Meeting
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Adoption of Minutes of September 17, 2020
2. Adoption of Minutes of October 15, 2020
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
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HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION - November 19, 2020 PAGE 2
Summary of Activity
3. Summary of Applications 2019 and 2020
4. Summary of Architectural Review Certificates for 2020
Department of Planning & Inspections Updates
5. Update on Wireless Communications Facilities: Ordinance #2020-13 Adopted by City
Council 11/9/2020 and Small WCF Design Manual
NEW APPLICATIONS
NEW BUSINESS
Review of Permits Referred to Commission
Annual Meeting of the Historic District Commission
6. Election of Chairman & Vice-Chairman
7. Meeting & Deadline Schedule for 2021
Educational Training Session
8. Information on Historic District (H) Zone
OLD BUSINESS
Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
9. CLG Program Reporting for FFY2019
10. Update on FFY2019 CLG Grant: Update to Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of
Dover Historic District Zone
11. Information on FFY2020 CLG Grant Application
a. Update on Application Process: Intent to Apply Submitted and Full Application
Submission Pending
b. Update on Grant Project Options
Implementation of 2019 Comprehensive Plan
ADJOURN
THE AGENDA ITEMS AS LISTED MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. PURSUANT TO
29 DEL. C. §10004(e)(2), THIS AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION
OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE SESSIONS, WHICH ARISE AT THE
TIME OF THE MEETING
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
September 17, 2020
The Virtual Meeting of the City of Dover Historic District Commission was held on Thursday,
September 17, 2020 at 3:30 PM using the videoconferencing system WebEx due to Delaware’s
Declaration of the State of Emergency for COVID-19 with Vice Chairperson Ms. Horsey
presiding. Members present were Mr. Street, Mr. Czerwinski, Ms. Horsey and Ms. Mason. (Note:
the fifth Historic District Commission member has not been appointed following the completion
of the term of Mr. McDaniel.)
Planning Office Staff members present were Mrs. Melson-Williams, Mr. Swierczek, and Mrs.
Savage-Purnell.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Mason moved for approval of the agenda as submitted, seconded by Mr. Czerwinski and the
motion was unanimously carried 4-0.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MEETING OF JUNE 18, 2020
Mr. Street moved for approval of the Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2020, seconded by Mr.
Czerwinski and the motion was unanimously carried 4-0.
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
Summary of Applications for 2019 and 2020
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that there were four (4) applications in 2019. A number of them were
informational items. There are no additional details. The only Application we have for 2020 is a
Referral of a Demolition Permit at 229 South Governors Avenue. This has been completed.
Summary of Architectural Review Certifications for 2020
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that with the Summary of Applications there have been 26
applications for the year (January – August). Seven of the Applications revolved around exterior
renovation projects. There were two projects that were not subject to Architectural Review
Certification. There were five Roof Permits and the remaining Permits were fences, signs and
demolitions including the one on 229 South Governors Avenue. Of the twenty-six (26) Permits,
twenty-five (25) were approved by Staff. One of the Demolition Permits involved the Historic
District Commission. A number of the Permits have involved properties on The Green that we
have processed in this time period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr. Czerwinski asked if there had been any activity on the house (building) that was damaged on
State Street. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that Staff has not seen any Permit activity at that
location at the current time. There is still an open Code Enforcement case on the property.
Mr. Street asked if the City had any recourse for the owner of the property to fix the building. Mrs.
Melson-Williams replied that the property cannot be occupied. She was not sure of what type of
triggers could be in place to force the property owner to do something if it is in a stable condition.
If something was to change, they (the city) could certainly attempt to move forward with some
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 17, 2020
type of declaration of it being a Dangerous Building to force correction to happen. She can look
into it and report back at the next meeting.
Ms. Horsey mentioned when she talked to the contractor, he said it was up to the insurance
company as to how far the owner could go with the restoration. She would think by now that the
owner would have heard from the insurance company. It would be nice if Mrs. Melson-Williams
could look into it and find out the status and report back to the Commission.
Ms. Mason asked who the owner was? Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that she did not recall the
name and did not believe they were local.
Ms. Mason mentioned that it seems as if they are just letting it sit there. There are signs stating we
are looking for new businesses (We Buy Houses). Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that there is a
tenant in the space. There were several offices with tenant(s) on the first floor (Glynn Homes).
They are not currently in the building, but their signage remains on the property. Ms. Mason
seems to think that the building is being used as advertisement and does not look nice. Ms. Horsey
agreed with Ms. Mason’s comments and she hopes that we can find out more information and
perhaps get some movement on the building. The presentation of the building is pretty bad for the
Historic District.
Department of Planning & Inspections Update
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that included in your packet was a flyer that announces the Draft
City of Dover Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. A link is included on the flyer that is open for review
and comments until October 4, 2020. Previously, there was an individual Bicycle Plan and
Pedestrian Plan, but now they have been combined into one. The Dover Kent County MPO has a
consultant working on the Plan. The City is also a partner. It is one of the Comprehensive Plan
items for the City that we should be keeping up with. She has not read it extensively and cannot
specifically comment on anything involving the Historic District area. Ultimately, it will come
through a City process for adoption through City Council within the upcoming months.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that Staff is in the process of learning a new meeting
management agenda/packet making system. It somewhat changes the format of the agenda. She
gave a brief overview of the new agenda and paperless packet format. “Municode for Meetings”
is the new system. We have received training.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that the Planning Commission has a new application that was
filed at their September deadline that they will be considering if it continues to progress to their
October meeting. It is an application involving the Scull Mansion property on South State Street.
The property is proposed with the new Site Plan Application that has been filed for redevelopment
as an expansion of Bayhealth’s Staff parking. The parking lot proposal will demolish the existing
Scull Mansion building, which currently functions as office space, in Phase 1 of the project for
redevelopment of that area into parking. While the property is not within the local Historic District
zone, the building is listed on the National Register of Historical Places which is a federal
destination. There is no local review of the proposal for the demolition. It is one of the historic
resources in Dover.
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 17, 2020
Mr. Czerwinski asked when was the application going through? Mrs. Melson-Williams replied
that the application was just filed. It would be scheduled to appear at the Planning Commission
meeting of October 19, 2020. The application will be subject to public hearing at the Planning
Commission.
Ms. Mason asked if there was any way the demolition could be stopped? Mrs. Melson-Williams
replied that there is not a review process for demolition. It would be like any other building that
sought a Demolition Permit. There is a small section of the Zoning Ordinance that recognizes
“scenic resources” in the City, and it mentions that those listed on the National Register of Historic
Places should be considered during the Site Plan process.
Ms. Horsey commented that building a parking lot is great, but how many of us (at least a dozen)
tried to save Dover Hardware and it did not work. We can put all the good information out there.
We can ask the hospital to spend money for restoration, but it does not matter because it is a
foregone conclusion and the Historic District Commission’s hands are tied. The National Register
of Historic Places means absolutely nothing.
Mr. Czerwinski mentioned that the only thing that the National Register of Historic Places, as far
as a covenant does, is for example if the hospital uses Federal funds for the parking lot that is the
only thing that will protect it and it would go through a Section 106 review. Both Ms. Horsey and
Mrs. Melson-Williams agreed.
Mr. Czerwinski also mentioned that the building is in excellent shape and it has been short sited.
They have been using it as an office building this entire time. To tear the building down for a
parking lot would be an arch typical evil thing to do for a 19th century structure such as that. Shame
on them and other than that it is really nothing you can do about it.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that as a Commission you could note that you recognize that it
is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and if they would consider options for the
property. If demolition is selected as the option, there is always an opportunity for documentation
prior to demolition. If you look at your Design Standard and Guidelines that is one of the things
that if it were in the Historic District you could look to have happen. That would be photo
documentation, measured drawings, etc. prior to a building going away.
Mr. Czerwinski mentioned that he hated mitigation like that because it does nothing for the
structure.
Correspondence
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that she received a letter from Mr. Nathan Attard that was provided
in your packet. Mr. Attard’s spouse is an employee with the City of Dover Planning Office. He
also notes in his profession that he works as a professional planner for the Delaware Transit
Corporation (DTC). He is a resident of Dover and expresses some thoughts about the need for the
Historic District Commission to look to expand the City’s current Historic District to be
coterminous with the current National Register districts in Downtown Dover. He mentions the
local districts, structures approaching fifty years of age, the Greenwold House, the pending sale of
Wesley College, and the Victorian Dover Historic District.
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 17, 2020
Ms. Horsey questioned the two buildings (the little green frame house and the house next to it on
South Governors Avenue) where they are going to put the Family Court; they are not worth
keeping. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied with those properties in that area, she believes the State
has made some property acquisitions in that area in an anticipation of a potential build site (future
project). Where those buildings remain is not in the Historic District. Ms. Mason agreed with Ms.
Horsey. Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that there was a greater number of buildings through
that entire corridor that over the years have disappeared since the 1970’s -1980’s.
Ms. Mason mentioned that it is good that the Historic District Commission is looking ahead and
anticipating something like what’s happening to Scull Mansion. She thinks it is a great idea to
extend the Historic District.
Mr. Czerwinski mentioned that the Historic District Commission has had this discussion in the
past. It could be kind of heated expanding the Historic District. We would need to set time aside
to do a deep discussion. There are a lot of areas on Bradford Street that are not in the Historic
District and there are a lot of houses in that area (north of Loockerman) as well as the Methodist
Church.
Ms. Horsey mentioned she worked on it in the early 90’s with the boundaries and the Guidelines
and there was a lot of resistance during that time with the street, blocks and properties to come
into it. Perhaps things may have changed now, and the feelings might very well be different. So
that is the reason the District boundaries were created the way they are today.
Mr. Czerwinski asked if this was something that the Historic District Commission should have a
public hearing about? Ms. Horsey replied yes. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that in the
Comprehensive Plan as one of the goals associated with Historic Preservation in the City, it does
raise that question of expansion of the local Historic District in designated areas. It is something
that is focused in the intermediate years of the Implementation Plan (2022-2025). It would
certainly be a very big project and you would have to think about how you assess the feelings of
the public or property owners in the area. What areas do you look to add? It could be areas
contiguous to the existing District or individual sites in the City. The process is laid out in the
Zoning Ordinance.
Mr. Czerwinski also mentioned that you have to consider not only Victorian but Edgehill, Capital
Green, Capitol Park, the Cape Cods, Fairview, etc. that is over 50 years. You have to look ahead
because it could be a slippery slope. These areas mark a new expansion for Dover as well as the
architectural style they represent. History does not stop with the Victorian era. We also have to
look at the areas after World War II because of the Dover Air Force Base and their impact. If the
Dover Air Force Base was not built, we would be an isolated small town like Georgetown. You
would also need to look at all the new subdivisions that were built and how they would be added
to the Historic District.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that Staff is happy to start with the basics of logistically “how
do you approach a task like this.” It does not mean that everything has to come in at once or you
even look at all of that. As mentioned by Mr. Czerwinski, the mid-20th century resources do not
have basic survey level data even done for them. At 50 years old, there are a number of areas that
were developed in response to the Dover Air Force Base coming into being and then actually the
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 17, 2020
arrival of Kraft Foods as a major manufacturer in town. There are neighborhoods that are basically
constructed to house the workers and professionals that came with that expansion of the City.
.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
Mrs. Melson-Williams read into the record the Resolution honoring the Service of Joseph
McDaniel on the Historic District Commission.
Resolution
Whereas, Joseph McDaniel became a member of the City of Dover Historic District Commission
in April 2007 and has served with diligence and distinction in this capacity as an advocate for
implementation of the Historic District Standards and Guidelines to maintain the historic
character of the city’s Historic District; and,
Whereas, Joseph McDaniel has played a key role in ensuring fundamental fairness and careful
forethought in the planning and development of the Capital City through his service on the Historic
District Commission; and,
Whereas, Joseph McDaniel has provided leadership on the Historic District Commission through
his role as Vice-Chairman from November 2014 to July 2016 and as Chairman from August 2016
through July 2020; and,
Whereas, Joseph McDaniel has influenced the pattern and appearance of development in the
Historic District in Dover through his contributions to the development of the Historic
Preservation chapters of the 2008 and 2019 Comprehensive Plans and his participation in
achieving the City’s designation as Certified Local Government as authorized by the National
Historic Preservation Act of 1966; and,
Whereas, Joseph McDaniel completed his service on the City of Dover Historic District
Commission on July 10, 2020.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved That, the City of Dover Historic District Commission does hereby
express its sincere appreciation to Joseph McDaniel for his faithful and exemplary service to the
Citizens of the City of Dover as a member of the City of Dover Historic District Commission.
Adoption of the Resolution
Mr. Street moved to accept the Resolution, seconded by Ms. Mason and unanimously carried 4-0.
Mrs. Melson-Williams noted that with Mr. McDaniel’s resignation (at the end of his term) from
the Historic District Commission there is a vacant seat. The Mayor will be looking to fill that seat.
The Historic District Commission does have some perimeters about the collection of people who
should serve. She is not sure at the current time how the Mayor is coming along with any
appointment thereof. Please share any ideas you might have with Staff or the Mayor.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that with Mr. McDaniel being the previous Chairman, Ms. Horsey
as the Vice-Chairperson has been serving as the Acting Chairperson. Per your By-Laws
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 17, 2020
technically, you should fill the vacancy of the two elected officers of your Commission. Currently,
the Chairperson position is vacant. In the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice-Chairperson acts.
Your By-Laws allow you to fill the offices at any meeting. You could do it today or wait for the
formal appointment of an additional member. The Commission’s Annual Meeting is in November.
Ms. Horsey stated that she would be willing to continue as Acting Chairperson until November.
Maybe by that time we would have an extra member on the Commission. All members agreed.
NEW BUSINESS
Review of Permits Referred to Commission – None
Mrs. Melson-Williams noted that last week the Planning Office received a Permit for another
building on The Green that is looking to have some work completed on the front porch. The
property is 34 The Green. It does have an active Code Enforcement case associated with the
condition of that porch.
OLD BUSINESS
Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
Update on FFY2019 CLG Grant: Update to Design Standards and Guideline for the City of Dover
Historic District Zone
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that FFY2019 CLG Grant was in place for doing the Addendum to
the Design Standards and Guidelines and the narrative was provided to the Commission as
reference. Earlier during the summer, the Planning Office had been in contact with the State
Historic Preservation Office about the status of Grants with the COVID-19 situation. We were
advised that the National Park Service would be allowing some flexibility to extend the Grant year
for the FFY2019 Grant cycle. This would allow us to continue with the Grant and get it started.
We are expecting the Grant Agreement to be revised in order to continue with the project. Mrs.
Melson-Williams tried to get confirmation today as to where we stand but was unsuccessful. We
are hoping to retain consultant services and make use of the Grant monies that we hope is still
available. We do have match in our current year budget that could assist with that project. We are
technically into another Federal Fiscal Year and there should be a new CLG Grant Application
cycle. Previously, we were advised that it probably would mean a Grant Application timeframe in
August. We have not received any information at the current time. It is Staff’s intent to move
forward with the FFY2019 CLG Grant in this upcoming year.
Implementation of 2019 Comprehensive Plan
Update on Implementation Plan Activities
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that Staff has begun work on the Comprehensive Rezoning Project.
She mentioned the various Ongoing Activities listed by topic area in the Short-Term
Implementation (2019-2021), the Intermediate Term Implementation (2022-2025) and the Long-
term Implementation (2025 and Beyond). She will keep the Commission updated on the
Comprehensive Plan actions on a regular basis.
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 17, 2020
Mr. Czerwinski asked if the Commission wanted to set aside time in the future meetings to discuss
the Historic District. Mr. Street agreed. Ms. Horsey mentioned that it would also be good to have
a map of the Historic District.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that there were a couple of reference documents in the
Comprehensive Plan. The Historic Preservation Chapter has two associated maps that mark the
local Historic District zone and the National Register Districts as well as individual properties that
can be used as a reference. Staff can put together the maps for your next meeting.
Mr. Street asked if the maps were in a PDF form on the website. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied
yes, she will send the link to the Commission members.
Ms. Mason moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Mr. Czerwinski and unanimously carried
4-0.
Meeting adjourned at 4:33 PM
Sincerely,
Maretta Savage-Purnell
Secretary
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City of Dover Historic District Commission Item 3.
Summary of Applications 2020
Updated thru October 31, 2020
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-20-01 Referral of 229 South Governors Demolition Permit - Permit #20-47 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received 1/14/2020.
Demolition Avenue, Action Tire Building Planner 2/11/2020 for consultation on Permit approved for issuance per HDC
Permit #20-47 Architectural Review Certification; action. Building Demolished.
Commercial/ 2/20/2020 HDC recommended
Vehicle Service approval of ArchRevCert
Building
HI-20-02 CLG Grant Certified Local Information File Notice of Eligibility for Grant Notice of Intent due October 16, 2020:
Application for Government 10/2/2020; Notice of Intent Due to Email submitted of intent to file. Full
FFY2020 Application for Grant SHPO Application due October 30, 2020. Working
Funding with SHPO and other City Staff on refining
Grant Project activities.
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City of Dover Historic District Commission Item 3.
Summary of Applications 2019
Updated thru October 31, 2020
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-19-01 Information on Downtown Dover; Presentation Informational Presentation and Information heard on grant funded Mural
Downtown Dover Potential Mural Consultation on Wall Preparation for S. project from Design Committee of
Mural Project Location at 109-113 Bradford St. elevation - HDC Downtown Dover Partnership; Property
W. Loockerman recommendation to not allow painting Owner to be advised that masonry wall
Street of an existing masonry wall should not be painted
HI-19-02 CLG Grant Certified Local Information File Notice of Eligibility for Grant Grant Application submitted; email of
Application for Government 6/14/2019; FFY2019 CLG Grant award; awaiting Formal Award Letter and
FFY2019 Application for Grant Application submitted 7/11/2019 to Letter of Agreement; Grant Timeframe
Funding SHPO Summer 2019-6/30/2020; Grant Timeframe
pending extension due to COVID-19
HI-19-03 Information on Historic District and Information File Informational Presentation by City's Ongoing efforts to establish provisions for
Small-Cell Citywide Electric Director to HDC design, permitting, and implementation; MI-
Wireless Facilities 20-06 Text Amendments: Wireless
Communications Facilities -- Proposed
Ordinance #2020-13 - First Reading
9/28/2020, Planning Commission
Recommendation 10/19/2020, City Council
Adoption 11/9/2020
HI-19-04 Referral of Fence 2 Kings Highway NE Fence Permit Permit #19-1218 referred to HDC by Permit application received 9/4/2019; HDC
Permit #19-1218 City Planner 9/9/2019 for consultation authorizes fence height and recommended
on Architectural Review Certification; elements, materials, & location; Permit
Considered at 9/19/2019 HDC Meeting issued 10/23/2019 subject to conditions of
- approval granted for 5 ft. metal Architectural Review Certification.
picket fence with recommendations
on brick piers, pergola, and fence
materials & location
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ummary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification Item 4.
020 - Updated Thru 10-31-2020
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
1/23/2020 19-1476 6 W. Loockerman St. Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for tenant fit
Renovations required for interior work. out of office space on second floor.
1/6/2020 19-1635 120 S. Governors Avenue Fence Permit Staff Approval. Replacement of wood pieces on
existing wood fence associated with
commercial building.
1/22/2020 19-1674 15 Loockerman Plaza, City Roof Permit Staff Approval. Roof replacement on City Hall one
Hall story west wing area. Reclad
mansard roof areas with synthetic
slate roof shingles to match main
section of building.
2/6/2020 20-01 131 W Loockerman Street, Sign Permit Staff Approval. Window signs and Roof Sign on
Handyman Humpfries corner of pent roof structure for
business located in first floor
storefront area.
3/17/2020 19-1575 54 S. State Street, Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval Installation of temporary banner
Presbyterian Church 12/9/2019 - 12/26/2019.
3/6/2020 20-193 214 S. State Street Roof Permit Staff Approval Roof replacement with architectural
shingles on rear addition; limited
visibility from street.
3/16/2020 20-202 22 The Green, Delaware Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Replacement of fire escape on rear
State Housing Authority Renovations (west) elevation; exterior
Offices restoration/repair and painting of
masonry & stucco, windows,
shutters, woodwork, gutters; roof
replacements - architectural
shingles and membrane roofing
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ummary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification Item 4.
020 - Updated Thru 10-31-2020
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
3/16/2020 20-206 16 The Green, Delaware Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Replacement of existing ramp on
State Housing Authority Renovations rear (north) elevation; exterior
Offices restoration/repair of masonry &
stucco, windows, shutters,
woodwork, gutter & downspouts;
roof replacements
3/13/2020 20-219 5 Kings Highway, NE Demolition Permit - Accessory Staff Approval Demolition of freestanding garage
Structure building.
4/27/2020 20-335 15 Kings Highway, NE Sign Permit Staff Approval Installation of projecting sign on
metal bracket for office tenant
5/21/2020 20-047 229 S. Governors Avenue Demolition Permit HDC Approval of ArchRevCert for Approval by HDC on 2/20/2020.
Demolition, HI-20-01 Demolition of one story masonry
commercial/vehicle service building.
5/28/2020 20-287 411 Legislative Avenue, Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Renovation of Entry Stairs for
Legislative Hall Renovations precast stone treads, brick, and
handrail system improvements.
5/11/2020 20-346 25 W. Loockerman Street Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for café space
Renovations required for interior work. on first floor.
5/6/2020 20-358 2-4 The Green, Office Administrative Permit - Roof Staff Approval Replacement of mansard roof with
Building Permit synthetic slate shingle material and
other roof & trim work repairs.
5/11/2020 20-368 417 S. State Street Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Restoration/repair of masonry
Renovations repointing, shutters, woodwork
repair, and exterior repainting.
5/26/2020 20-401 45 The Green, Sykes Roof Permit Staff Approval Roof Replacement of flat roof
Building membrane, select repair of slate
roof areas (west wing and rear),
woodwork, gutter, chimney repair.
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ummary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification Item 4.
020 - Updated Thru 10-31-2020
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
6/22/2020 20-412 401 Federal Street, Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior Renovations to office space.
Renovations required for interior work.
6/2/2020 20-466 20 E Division Street, Office Sign Permit Staff Approval. Reface of existing monument sign
Building for office tenant (Embrace Home
Loans).
7/1/2020 20-447 150 Martin Luther King Jr Window Permit No Planning Staff Review. Permit Repair of Windows.
Blvd South, Tatnall Building issued by Permitting Staff
7/9/2020 20-615 411 Legislative Avenue, Administrative Permit - Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior Renovations associated
Legislative Hall Interior Renovations required for interior work. with replacement of HVAC
mechanical system.
7/23/2020 20-704 20 Loockerman Plaza, Dover Fence Permit Staff Approval. Replacement of existing white vinyl
District Office at Wesley UM fence with 4-ft. black metal picket
Church fence on north side of east building
wing.
8/11/2020 20-761 417 S State Street Roof Permit Staff Approval. Replacement of existing asphalt
shingle roof with architectural
shingle roof.
8/6/2020 20-772 146 S State Street, Main Sign Permit Staff Approval. Installation of hanging (projecting)
Street Homes Loan sign on porch for office tenant.
8/24/2020 20-785 3 Loockerman Plaza, PNC Building Permit - Site Staff Approval. Renovations to ADA Parking in
Bank Renovations north parking lot and associated
curb cuts, sidewalks, and
replacement of walkway and steps
with ramp system on east side of
building from parking lot.
8/17/2020 20-795 154-156 S State Street Alley Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval. Renovations to exterior wood
Renovations staircase and deck on north side of
building. Not considered in public
view and subject to Arch Rev Cert as
site is off an alley.
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ummary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification Item 4.
020 - Updated Thru 10-31-2020
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
8/25/2020 20-878 133 S Bradford Street, Administrative Permit Staff Approval. Removal of 3-bay Bank Drive-thru
Previous Wells Fargo Bank canopy structure. Existing Building
Drive-thru to remain.
10/23/2020 20-957 34 The Green, Law Offices Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval. Reconstruction of front porch
May & Perez Renovations elements and other woodwork with
in-kind materials. Information alert
to HDC at 10/15/2020 Meeting.
10/16/2020 20-1030 6 S State Street, Law Office Window Permit No Planning Staff Review. Permit Replacement of 6 Double Hung
of Baird Mandalas & issued by Permitting Staff Windows - Beige in color with grids.
Brockstedt
10/13/2020 20-1085 116 E Water Street Door Permit No Planning Staff Review. Permit Replacement of Entry Door - Raised
issued by Permitting Staff Panels Double Door with Transom.
Planning Staff discussed door
options with contractor.
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Item 5.
CITY OF DOVER ORDINANCE #2020-13
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
COUNCIL MET:
That Appendix B – Zoning, Article 5 – Supplementary Regulations of the Dover Code, be
amended by inserting a new Section 23 – Wireless Communications Facilities, as follows:
Section 23. Wireless Communications Facilities
23.1 Purpose and intent. The purpose of this section is to establish uniform standards for the siting,
design, permitting, construction, maintenance, and use of wireless communications facilities
(WCF) in the City of Dover (referred to herein as the “City”). While the City recognizes the
importance of wireless communications facilities in providing high quality communications
service to its residents, the City also recognizes that it has an obligation to protect public safety
and to minimize the adverse effects of such facilities through the standards set forth in the
following provisions and as referenced.
23.11 By enacting these provisions, the City intends to:
(a) Promote the deployment of wireless communications facilities in the City while
regulating their location and number to ensure the provision of necessary services;
(b) Provide for the managed development of wireless communications facilities in a
manner that enhances the benefits of wireless communication and accommodates the
needs of both City residents and wireless carriers in accordance with federal and state
laws and regulations;
(c) Address new wireless technologies, including but not limited to, distributed antenna
systems, data collection units, small cells, cable Wi-Fi and other wireless
communications facilities;
(d) Establish procedures for the design, siting, construction, installation, maintenance and
removal of small wireless communications facilities, non-tower based wireless
communications facilities, and tower-based wireless communications facilities, in the
City, including facilities both inside and outside the public rights-of-way;
(e) Preserve the character of the City’s neighborhoods and corridors;
(f) Minimize the adverse visual effects and the number of such facilities through proper
design, siting, screening, material, color and finish and by requiring that competing
providers of wireless communications services collocate their commercial
communications antennas and related facilities on existing wireless support structures
where feasible;
(g) Promote the health, safety and welfare of the City's residents.
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Item 5.
Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 2
23.2 Definitions.
Accessory Equipment. Any equipment serving or being used in conjunction with a wireless
communications facility or wireless support structure. The term “Accessory Equipment”
includes but is not limited to utility or transmission equipment, power supplies, generators,
batteries, cables, equipment buildings, cabinets and storage sheds, shelters or similar
structures.
Antenna. An apparatus designed for the purpose of emitting radiofrequency (RF) radiation, to
be operated or operating from a fixed location pursuant to Federal Communications
Commission authorization, for the provision of wireless service and any commingled
information services.
Changes in height. Changes in height is measured from the original wireless support structure
in cases where deployments are or will be separated horizontally, such as on buildings'
rooftops; in other circumstances, changes in height should be measured from the dimensions
of the tower or base station, inclusive of originally approved appurtenances and any
modifications that were approved prior to the passage of the Spectrum Act (47 CFR
§1.4001(b)(7)(i)(A)).
Collocation. The mounting of one or more WCFs, including antennae, on a pre-existing
structure, or modifying a structure for the purpose of mounting or installing a WCF on that
structure.
Eligible Facilities Request. Any request for modification of an existing WCF that does not
constitute a substantial change. Such request may involve: (i) collocation of new transmission
equipment; (ii) removal of transmission equipment; or (iii) replacement of transmission
equipment.
Emergency. A condition that (1) constitutes a clear and immediate danger to the health,
welfare, or safety of the public, or (2) has caused or is likely to cause facilities in the rights-of-
way to be unusable and result in loss of the services provided.
Equipment Compound. An area surrounding or adjacent to a wireless support structure within
which base stations, power supplies, or accessory equipment are located.
FCC. Federal Communications Commission.
Height of a Tower-Based WCF. The vertical distance measured from the ground level,
including any base pad, to the highest point on a tower-based WCF, including antennae
mounted on the tower and any other appurtenances.
Modification or Modify. The improvement, upgrade or expansion of existing wireless
communications facilities or base stations on an existing wireless support structure or the
improvement, upgrade, or expansion of the wireless communications facilities located within
an existing equipment compound, if the improvement, upgrade, expansion or replacement does
not substantially change the physical dimensions of the wireless support structure.
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Item 5.
Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 3
Non-Tower Wireless Communications Facility (Non-Tower WCF). A wireless
communications facility located or collocated on existing structures, such as, but not limited
to buildings, water towers, electrical transmission towers, utility poles, light poles, traffic
signal poles, flag poles and other similar structures that do not require the installation of a new
tower. This term includes the replacement of an existing structure with a similar structure that
is required to support the weight of the proposed WCF. This definition excludes any
installation constituting a Small Wireless Communications Facility.
Person. Individuals, corporations, companies, associations, joint stock companies, firms,
partnerships, limited liability companies, corporations and other entities established pursuant
to statutes of the State of Delaware, provided that “Person” does not include or apply to the
City, or to any department or agency of the City.
Replacement. The replacement of existing wireless communications facilities on an existing
wireless support structure or within an existing equipment compound due to maintenance,
repair or technological advancement with equipment that does not result in increased wind or
structural loading, is substantially similar in size and weight as the wireless communications
facilities initially installed, and that does not substantially change the physical dimensions of
the existing wireless support structure.
Small Wireless Communications Facility (Small WCF). A wireless communications facility
that meets the following criteria:
(1) The structure on which antenna facilities are mounted
a) is 50 feet or less in height, or
b) is no more than 10 percent taller than other adjacent structures, or
c) is not extended to a height of more than 50 feet or by more than 10 percent above
its preexisting height as a result of the collocation of new antenna facilities; and
(2) Each antenna associated with the deployment (excluding the associated equipment) is
no more than three cubic feet in volume; and
(3) All antenna equipment associated with the facility (excluding antennas) are
cumulatively no more than 28 cubic feet in volume; and
(4) The facilities do not require antenna structure registration under 47 CFR Part 17; and
(5) The facilities are not located on Tribal lands, as defined under 36 CFR §800.16(x);
and
(6) The facilities do not result in human exposure to radiofrequency radiation in excess of
the applicable safety standards specified in 47 CFR §1.1307(b).
Stealth Technology. Camouflaging or screening methods applied to wireless communications
facilities and accessory equipment which render them more visually appealing or blend the
proposed facility into the existing structure or visual backdrop in a manner appropriate to the
site’s context and surrounding environment. Such methods include, but are not limited to,
architecturally screened roof-mounted antennae, building-mounted antennae painted to match
the existing structure and facilities constructed to resemble trees, shrubs, and light poles.
Substantial Change. A modification to an existing WCF substantially changes the physical
dimensions of a wireless support structure if it meets any of the criteria set forth in 47 CFR
§1.6100, as amended.
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Item 5.
Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 4
Tower-Based Wireless Communications Facility (Tower-Based WCF). Any structure that is
used for the primary purpose of supporting one or more antennae, including, but not limited
to, self-supporting lattice towers, guy towers and monopoles. This definition excludes any
installation meeting the definition of a Small Wireless Communications Facility.
Wireless. Transmissions through the airwaves including, but not limited to, infrared line of
sight, cellular, PCS, microwave, satellite, or radio signals.
Wireless Communications Facility (WCF). An antenna facility or a wireless support structure
that is used for the provision of wireless service, whether such service is provided on a stand-
alone basis or commingled with other wireless communications services.
Wireless Communications Facility Applicant (WCF Applicant). Any person that applies for a
wireless communications facility building permit, zoning/conditional use approval, and/or
permission to use the public right-of-way or other City owned land or property.
Wireless Support Structure. A freestanding structure, pole, tower, or other building, whether
or not it has an existing antenna facility, that is used or to be used to support the placement or
installation of a wireless communication facility for the provision of wireless service
(whether on its own or comingled with other types of services).
23.3 Applicability. The terms and provisions of this section shall apply to wireless communication
facilities in the City. As defined, each type of WCF has specific allowable locations, development
regulations, and design standards as follows:
(a) Small WCF described in Article 5, Section 23.6.
(b) Non-Tower WCF described in Article 5, Section 23.7.
(c) Tower WCF described in Article 5, Section 23.8.
23.31Exceptions. The activities by City residents to utilize satellite dishes, citizen and/or band
radios, and Antennae for the purpose of maintaining television, phone, and/or internet
connections at their residences for non-commercial activity shall be exempt from the
regulations enumerated in this Section 23.
23.32 Nonconforming Uses. The following provisions shall apply to all buildings, support
structures, and uses as related to wireless communication facilities:
(a) All types of WCFs shall be permitted to collocate upon existing non-conforming
WCFs, wireless support structures, and other non-conforming structures subject to
the provisions of this Section 23.
(b) Collocation of Antennae is permitted on non-conforming structures.
(c) Collocation of Non-Tower WCFs upon existing Tower-Based WCFs is encouraged
even if the Tower-Based WCF is non-conforming as to use within a zoning district.
(d) WCF which are hereafter damaged or destroyed due to any reason or cause may be
repaired and restored at their former location but must otherwise comply with the
terms and conditions of this Section 23.
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Item 5.
Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 5
23.4 Type of Activity Determination. The following provisions outline the types of wireless
communication facility applications.
23.41 Eligible Facilities Request. The WCF Application Type is classified as an Eligible
Facilities Request if the request for modification of an existing WCF that does not
constitute a Substantial Change under 47 CFR §1.6100, as amended. The request may
involve: (i) collocation of new transmission equipment; (ii) removal of transmission
equipment; or (iii) replacement of transmission equipment.
23.42 Substantial Change Activity. The WCF Application Type is classified as a Substantial
Change Activity if the modification substantially changes the physical dimensions of a
wireless support structure by meeting any of the criteria set forth in 47 CFR §1.6100, as
amended, relating to height of the support structure or addition of new appurtenances or
equipment cabinets.
23.43 New Facility. The WCF Application Type is classified as a New Facility if it involves
the construction and placement of a new wireless support structure and does not meet
the definition of Small WCF.
23.44 Small WCF. The WCF Application Type is classified as a Small WCF if the proposed
antennas, accessory equipment and support structure (whether an existing, replacement
or new structure) comply with the volume and height parameters set forth in the
definition of Small WCF.
23.5 Application Procedures. The following provisions outline the procedures for wireless
communication facility applications. Policies and procedures for the administration of the WCF
permitting and review process shall be developed by the City Manager and City Planner.
23.51 Location within Public Right-of-way. WCF Applicants proposing a WCF to be located
within the public right-of-way, shall be required to obtain application approvals as
follows:
(a) Pole Attachment Process. Compliance with the procedures found in Dover Code
Ordinances, Chapter 110 – Utilities, Section 110-32 Pole Attachment, for a WCF
proposed for attachment to Dover Electric Department facilities.
(b) Master license agreement required. Any WCF Applicant for a WCF proposed for
attachment to a utility pole owned or controlled by the City of Dover Electric
Department shall first enter into a valid Master License Agreement with the City
authorizing such attachment. No WCF shall be permitted to be attached to such
utility poles without proof a valid Master License Agreement being provided as
part of the permit application.
(c) Permit – Use of Rights-of-Way. Obtain a Right-of-Way Use Permit from the City
in accordance with permit policies and procedures pursuant to Dover Code of
Ordinances, Chapter 98 – Streets, Sidewalks, Storm Sewers and Other Public
Spaces, for a WCF proposed with City rights-of-way.
(d) Permit. Obtain a WCF Building Permit from the City in accordance with applicable
permit policies and procedures pursuant to Appendix B, Article 8, Section 1 –
Building Permit of the City of Dover Code.
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Item 5.
Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 6
(e) Documentation. WCF application shall also be accompanied by documentation
demonstrating that the proposed WCF complies with all applicable provisions of
this Section 23 for the type of WCF.
(f) Fee. Each application to be approved under this section shall be accompanied by
fees as provided for in Appendix F – Fees and Fines.
23.52 Compliance with Zoning Ordinance. The following section of the zoning ordinance shall
be adhered to, as applicable, in the approval of a WCF application:
(a) Architectural Review Certificate. WCF located within the Historic District (H) shall
be required to obtain an Architectural Review Certificate pursuant to Article 3,
Section 21 and Article 10, Section 3 of this ordinance.
(b) Airport environs. Locations within the Airport Environs Overlay Zone (AEOZ)
shall document compliance pursuant to Article 3, Section 22 of this ordinance.
(c) Environmentally sensitive areas. Location shall document compliance with the
environmental protection measures for flood hazard areas and waterbodies and
wetlands pursuant to Article 5, Section 11 of this ordinance.
23.53 Eligible Facilities Request. WCF Applicants proposing an Eligible Facilities Request
shall be required to obtain application approvals as follows:
(a) Type. WCF Applicant shall designate in writing that the application constitutes an
Eligible Facilities Request pursuant to 47 CFR §1.6100 and as defined by this
Section 23.
(b) Permit. Obtain a WCF Building Permit from the City in accordance with applicable
permit policies and procedures pursuant to Appendix B, Article 8, Section 1 –
Building Permit of the City of Dover Code.
(c) Documentation. WCF application shall also be accompanied by documentation
demonstrating that the proposed WCF complies with all applicable provisions of
this Section 23 for the type of WCF.
(d) Fee. Each application to be approved under this section shall be accompanied by
fees as provided for in Appendix F – Fees and Fines.
23.54 Substantial Change Activity. WCF Applicants proposing a Substantial Change Activity
shall be required to obtain application approvals as follows:
(a) Type. WCF Applicant shall designate in writing that the application constitutes a
Substantial Change Activity as defined by this Section 23.
(b) Permit. Obtain a WCF Building Permit from the City in accordance with applicable
permit policies and procedures pursuant to Appendix B, Article 8, Section 1 –
Building Permit of the City of Dover Code.
(c) Documentation. WCF application shall also be accompanied by documentation
demonstrating that the proposed WCF complies with all applicable provisions of
this Section 23 based on the type of facility.
(d) Fee. Each application to be approved under this section shall be accompanied by
fees as provided for in Appendix F – Fees and Fines.
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Item 5.
Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 7
23.55 New Facilities. WCF Applicants proposing a New Facility located in a public right-of-
way shall be subject to the provisions of Section 23.51. WCF Applicants proposing a
New Facility meeting the definition of Tower-Based WCF outside of a public right-of-
way of shall be required to obtain application approvals as follows:
(a) Conditional use authorization required. Any WCF Applicant proposing the
construction of a new facility shall first obtain conditional use authorization
pursuant to Appendix B, Article 10 Section 1 of the Dover Code.
(b) Documentation. The conditional use application shall demonstrate that the
proposed WCF complies with all applicable provisions of Section 23 based on the
type of facility.
(c) Conditional use application requirements. The additional requirements for
conditional use applications shall include the following:
i. A description of the type and manufacturer of the proposed
transmission/radio equipment, the power in watts at which the WCF
Applicant transmits, and any relevant related tests conducted by the WCF
Applicant in determining the need for the proposed site and installation.
ii. Documentation demonstrating that the proposed Tower-Based WCF
complies with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations
concerning aviation safety.
iii. Evidence that the owner of the property on which the Tower-Based WCF
is proposed has granted authorization to construct and operate the Tower-
Based WCF.
iv. Written certification from a structural engineer licensed in the State of
Delaware that the proposed WCF’s ability to meet the structural standards
offered by either the Electronic Industries Association or the
Telecommunication Industry Association and certify the proper
construction of the foundation and the erection of the structure.
v. An application for a new Tower-Based WCF shall demonstrate that the
proposed Tower-Based WCF cannot be accommodated on an existing or
approved structure or building. The Planning Commission may deny an
application to construct a new Tower-Based WCF if the WCF Applicant
has not made a good faith effort to mount the Antenna(s) on an existing
structure. The WCF Applicant shall address the viability of any existing
Wireless Support Structures within a one quarter (1/4) mile radius of the
site proposed and demonstrate that such alternative candidates are inferior
with respect to technical feasibility, cost, or terms of use.
(b) Permit. Obtain a WCF Building Permit from the City in accordance with applicable
permit policies and procedures pursuant to Appendix B, Article 8, Section 1 –
Building Permit of the City of Dover Code.
(c) Documentation. WCF application shall also be accompanied by documentation
demonstrating that the proposed WCF complies with all applicable provisions of
this Section 23 based on the type of WCF.
(d) Fee. Each application to be approved under this section shall be accompanied by
fees as provided for in Appendix F – Fees and Fines.
23.56 New Small WCF. WCF Applicants proposing a new Small WCF that does not qualify as
an Eligible Facilities Request shall be required to obtain application approval as follows:
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Item 5.
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(a) Type. WCF Applicant shall designate in writing that the application constitutes a
Small WCF as defined by this Section 23.
(b) Permit. Obtain a WCF Building Permit from the City in accordance with applicable
permit policies and procedures pursuant to Appendix B, Article 8, Section 1 –
Building Permit of the City of Dover Code.
(c) Documentation. WCF application shall also be accompanied by documentation
demonstrating that the proposed WCF complies with all applicable provisions of
this Section 23 based on the type of facility.
(d) Fee. Each application to be approved under this section shall be accompanied by
fees as provided for in Appendix F – Fees and Fines.
(e) New Wireless Support Structures. An application involving installation of a new
Wireless Support Structure shall demonstrate that the proposed Small WCF cannot
be reasonably accommodated on an existing or approved structure or building
within the right-of-way. The WCF Applicant shall address the viability of any
existing Wireless Support Structures within 100 feet of the site proposed and
demonstrate that such alternative candidates are inferior with respect to technical
feasibility, cost, or terms of use.
23.57 Timing of Approvals. Each specific type of WCF is subject to specific approval
timeframes. Such timeframes shall be subject to the tolling procedures established by the
FCC.
(a) Small WCF: Timing of Approval for all Small WCF facilities that do not meet the
definition of Eligible Facilities Request. Once a WCF application is submitted
these are the approval time lines:
i. Notification of Incomplete Applications for Small WCF. Within ten (10)
days of receipt of an application for a Small WCF, the City shall notify the
WCF Applicant in writing of any additional information required to
complete application.
ii. Approval Timeframe – Collocation. Within sixty (60) days of receipt of an
application for a collocation of a Small WCF on a preexisting Wireless
Support Structure, the City shall make a final decision on whether to
approve the application and the City shall notify the WCF Applicant in
writing of such decision.
iii. Approval Timeframe – New Facility. Within ninety (90) days of receipt of
an application for a Small WCF requiring the installation of a new Wireless
Support Structure, the City Planning Department shall make a final decision
on whether to approve the application and shall notify the WCF Applicant
in writing of such decision.
(b) Non-Tower WCF: Timing of Approval for all Non-Tower WCF facilities that do
not meet the definition of Eligible Facilities Request. Once a WCF application is
submitted these are the approval time lines:
i. Notification of Incomplete Applications for Non-Tower WCF. Within thirty
(30) days of receipt of an application for a WCF on a preexisting wireless
support structure, the City shall notify the WCF Applicant in writing of any
additional information required to complete application.
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Item 5.
Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 9
ii. Approval Timeframe – Substantial Change. Within ninety (90) days of
receipt of an application for a Non-Tower WCF on a preexisting Wireless
Support Structure that Substantially Changes the Wireless Support
Structure to which it is attached, the City shall make a final decision on
whether to approve the application and the City shall notify the WCF
Applicant in writing of such decision.
iii. Approval Timeframe – Not Substantial Change. Within sixty (60) days of
receipt of an application for a Non-Tower WCF on a preexisting Wireless
Support Structure that does not Substantially Change the Wireless Support
Structure to which it is attached, the City Planning Department shall issue
the required building permit authorizing construction of WCF.
(c) Tower-Based WCF: Timing of Approval for all Tower-Based WCF facilities that
do not meet the definition of Eligible Facilities Request. Once a WCF application
is submitted these are the approval time lines:
i. Notification of Incomplete Applications for Tower-Based WCF. Within
thirty (30) days of receipt of an application for a Tower-Based WCF, the
City shall notify the WCF Applicant in writing of any additional
information required to complete application.
ii. Approval Timeframe - All applications for Tower-Based WCFs shall be
acted upon within one hundred fifty (150) days of the receipt of a fully
completed application for the approval of such Tower-Based WCF and
the City shall advise the WCF Applicant in writing of its decision. If
additional information was requested by the City Planning Department to
complete an application, the time required by the WCF Applicant to
provide the information shall not be counted toward the one hundred fifty
(150) day review period
23.58 Fees. Each application for permit or plan approval shall be accompanied by a fee as provided
for in Appendix F – Fees and Fines.
(a) Permit fees. The City may assess appropriate and reasonable permit fees directly related
to the City’s actual costs in reviewing and processing the application for approval of a
WCF, as well as related inspection, monitoring and related costs. Such permit fees
shall be established by Appendix F – Fees and Fines and shall comply with the
applicable requirements of the FCC.
(b) Reimbursement for WCF in Right-of-way. In addition to permit fees as described in
this section, every Small WCF in the right-of-way is subject to the City’s right to
recover its actual costs incurred as a result of the Small WCF’s presence in the right-
of-way, including, but not limited to, the costs of the administration and performance
of all reviewing, inspecting, permitting, supervising and other right-of-way
management activities by the City. The owner of each Small WCF shall reimburse the
City for the City’s costs reasonably incurred in connection with the activities described
above. All fees shall comply with applicable state and federal law and not exceed
amounts presumed reasonable by the FCC.
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Item 5.
Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 10
23.6 Small Wireless Communication Facilities (Small WCF). The following regulations shall
apply to all Small WCF and associated Wireless Support Structures as defined by this Section 23.
(a) Location.
i. Small WCF are permitted to be located in all City zoning districts subject to
the application requirements of this Section 23.
ii. Small WCF are subject to compliance with Zoning Ordinance provisions
outlined in Section 23.52.
iii. Small WCF are permitted to be located within the public right-of-way subject
to application requirements of this Section 23.
(b) Development Regulations.
i. Sizing. To be considered as Small WCF, the WCF must comply with the criteria
established in the definition of Small Wireless Communications Facility in
Section 23.2.
ii. Height. The total height of a Small WCF shall comply with the maximum height
permitted in the zoning district of the property to the extent technically feasible.
In accordance with industry standards, Small WCF Applicants must submit
documentation to the City justifying the total height of the WCF.
iii. Height. The total height of a Small WCF when located in the public right-of-
way shall be no more than ten percent taller than the tallest existing utility pole
or wireless support structure within a two hundred fifty (250) radius of the
proposed WCF or fifty (50) feet above ground level, whichever is greater.
iv. Placement. All Small WCF shall comply with the applicable requirements of
the Americans with Disabilities Act and all applicable requirements pertaining
to streets and sidewalks, as codified in Chapter 98 of the Dover Code.
v. Placement. Small WCF in the public right-of-way requiring the installation of
a new Wireless Support Structure shall not be located directly in front of any
building entrance or exit such that it would interfere with ingress or egress.
vi. Accessory equipment. Small WCF and Accessory Equipment shall be located
so as not to cause any physical or visual obstruction to pedestrian or vehicular
traffic, create safety hazards to pedestrians and/or motorists, or to otherwise
inconvenience public use of the ROW as determined by the City.
(c) Design standards. All Small WCF shall be designed to meet applicable requirements
of the City “Small Wireless Communications Facility Design Manual,” a copy of which
is kept on file at the City Planning Department.
23.7 Non-Tower Wireless Communication Facilities (Non-Tower WCF). The following
regulations shall apply to all Non-Tower WCFs as defined by this Section 23 and that do not meet
the definition of a Small WCF.
(a) Location.
i. Non-Tower WCF are permitted to locate in all City zoning districts subject to
the application requirements of this Section 23.
ii. Non-Tower WCF are subject to compliance with Zoning Ordinance provisions
outlined in Section 23.52.
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iii. Non-Tower WCF are permitted to be located within the public right-of-way
subject to application requirements of this Section 23.
iv. Non-Tower WCF shall be collocated on existing wireless support structures,
such as poles, certain existing buildings or Tower-Based WCF.
v. Historic buildings. Non-Tower WCF may be located within one hundred (100)
feet of any property, or on a building or structure that is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places if an approved Architectural Review Certification is
obtained pursuant to Article 10, Section 3 of this ordinance.
(b) Prohibitions on certain structures. Non-Tower WCF shall not be located on one-
family detached dwellings, one-family attached dwellings, semi-detached dwellings,
duplexes, townhouses, manufactured homes, mobile homes, modular homes, or any
residential accessory structure.
(c) Development Regulations.
i. Sizing. To be considered as Non-Tower WCF, the WCF must comply with the
criteria established in the definition of Non-Tower Wireless Communications
Facility in Section 23.2.
ii. Height. The total height of a Non-Tower WCF shall not exceed the maximum
height permitted in the zoning district. In accordance with industry standards,
Non-Tower WCF Applicants must submit documentation to the City justifying
the total height of the WCF.
iii. Replacement of Existing Support Structure. The replacement of an existing
support structure with a similar structure that is required to support the weight
of the proposed WCF is allowed.
iv. Accessory Equipment Buildings. If Accessory Equipment is to be located in a
separate building, the building shall comply with the minimum requirements
for accessory structure in the applicable zoning district.
v. Fences. A security fence with a minimum height of six (6) feet and a maximum
height of eight (8) feet shall surround any separate equipment compound
located outside the right-of-way.
vi. Access. Vehicular access to the accessory equipment building or equipment
compound shall not interfere with the parking or vehicular circulations on the
site for the principal use.
(d) Design Standards. Where appropriate, Non-Tower WCF shall employ Stealth
Technology and be treated to match the Wireless Support Structure in order to
minimize aesthetic impact. The Stealth Technology utilized by the WCF Applicant
shall be subject to the application approval process.
23.8 Tower-Based Wireless Communication Facilities (Tower-Based WCF). The following
regulations shall apply to all Tower-Based WCFs as defined by this Section 23 and that do not
meet the definition of a Small WCF.
(a) Conditional uses. Tower-Based WCF are permitted outside the public Rights-of-Way
in certain zoning districts upon conditional use approval of the Planning Commission
in accordance with the procedures and subject to the general conditions set forth in
Article 10 Section 1 of this ordinance.
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i. In approving the conditional use, the Planning Commission may take into
consideration the following:
a. the aesthetic impact of the proposed facility, including but not
limited to whether its decision upon the subject application will
promote the harmonious and orderly development of the zoning
district involved;
b. encourage compatibility with the character and type of development
existing in the area;
c. prevent a negative impact on the aesthetic character of the
community;
d. preserve woodlands and trees existing at the site to the greatest
possible extent; and
e. encourage sound engineering and land development design and
construction principles, practices and techniques.
ii. Additional antennae. As a condition of approval for all Tower-Based WCF,
the WCF Applicant shall provide with a written commitment that it will
allow a minimum of two (2) other service providers the opportunity to
Collocate Antennae on Tower-Based WCF where technically feasible.
(b) Location.
i. Tower-Based WCF are conditionally permitted to locate in the nonresidential
zones. Nonresidential zones are defined in Article 12 – Definitions of this
ordinance.
ii. Exception. Tower-Based WCF in the IPM3 (Industrial Park Manufacturing
Zone – Industrial Aviation and Aeronautics Center) zoning district are only
allowed in support of aviation, aeronautics, or related operation per Article 3,
Section 20B of the ordinance.
iii. Tower-Based WCF are subject to the application requirements of this Section
23.
iv. Tower-Based WCF are subject to compliance with zoning ordinance provisions
outlined in Section 23.52.
v. Historic places. Tower-Based WCF may be located within one hundred (100)
feet of any building or structure that is listed on the National Register of Historic
Places if an approved Architectural Review Certification is obtained pursuant
to Article 10, Section 3 of this ordinance.
(c) Uses on Property.
i. Principal use. A Tower-Based WCF shall be permitted as a sole principal use
on a lot.
ii. Combined with another use. A Tower-Based WCF may be permitted on a
property with an existing use, or on a vacant parcel in combination with another
permitted use.
iii. Existing uses. The existing use on the property may be any permitted use in the
applicable zoning district and need not be affiliated with the WCF.
iv. Ability to use. Where applicable, the WCF owner shall present documentation
that the property owner has granted an easement or other property right for the
proposed facility.
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(d) Development Regulations.
i. Minimum lot area. The minimum lot area shall comply with the requirements
for the applicable zoning district and shall be the area needed to accommodate
the Tower-Based WCF and guy wires, the equipment building, security fence,
and buffer planting.
ii. Height. Tower-Based WCFs shall be designed and kept at the minimum
functional height. The maximum total height of a Tower-Based WCF shall not
exceed the one hundred fifty (150) feet. No WCF Applicant shall have the right
under these regulations to erect a tower to the maximum height specified in this
section unless it proves the necessity for such height.
iii. Minimum setbacks. The minimum distance between the base of a Tower-Based
WCF and any property line or street Right-of-Way line shall equal 110% of the
proposed height of the Tower-Based WCF, unless the WCF Applicant shows
to the satisfaction of the Planning Commission that the proposed Tower-Based
WCF has been designed in such a manner that a lesser setback will have no
negative effects on public safety.
(e) Design Standards.
i. Multiple Antennae. Any proposed Tower-Based WCF shall be designed
structurally to accommodate both the WCF Applicant's Antennae and at least
two (2) comparable Antennae for future users.
ii. Security. Any Tower-Based WCF shall be equipped with an anti-climbing
device, as approved by the manufacturer.
iii. Lighting. No Tower-Based WCF shall be artificially lighted, except as required
by law. If lighting is required, the WCF Applicant shall provide a detailed plan
for sufficient lighting, demonstrating as unobtrusive and inoffensive an effect
as is permissible under state and federal regulations.
iv. Surrounding environs. Existing vegetation, trees and shrubs located within
proximity to the Tower-Based WCF structure shall be preserved to the
maximum extent possible.
v. Fences. A security fence having a minimum height of six (6) feet and a
maximum height of eight (8) feet shall surround any Tower-Based WCF, as
well as guy wires, equipment compound or housing WCF equipment.
vi. Screening. A screen of evergreen trees planted eight (8) feet on center, each at
least four (4) feet in height, shall surround the Tower-Based WCF and security
fence. Existing vegetation shall be preserved to the maximum extent possible
and landscaping is not required where landscaping already exists
vii. Accessory equipment. Where feasible, Accessory Equipment associated, or
connected, with a Tower-Based WCF shall be placed underground. Any above-
ground Accessory Equipment associated or connected with a Tower-Based
WCF shall be screened from public view using Stealth Technology. All
ground-mounted Accessory Equipment, utility buildings and accessory
structures shall be architecturally designed to blend into the environment in
which they are situated.
viii. Accessory equipment buildings. If Accessory Equipment is to be located in a
separate building, the building shall comply with the minimum requirements
for accessory structures in the applicable zoning district.
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ix. Accessory equipment. Accessory Equipment not exceeding five hundred (500)
square feet in area shall be permitted for each unrelated company sharing space
on the Tower-Based WCF.
x. Access road. Where necessary, an access road, turnaround space and parking
shall be provided to ensure adequate Emergency and service access to Tower-
Based WCF. Maximum use of existing roads, whether public or private, shall
be made to the extent practicable. Road grades shall closely follow natural
contours to assure minimal visual disturbance and minimize soil erosion.
xi. Visual Appearance. Tower-Based WCF shall employ Stealth Technology
which may include painting or finish of the tower portion. All Tower-Based
WCF and Accessory Equipment shall be aesthetically and architecturally
compatible with the surrounding environment and shall maximize the use of a
like facade to blend with the existing surroundings and neighboring buildings
to the greatest extent possible.
23.9 General Requirements for Wireless Communication Facilities. The following shall apply to
all types of wireless communication facilities. Each application for a WCF shall require proof of
compliance with the following.
23.91 Standards for Wireless Communication Facilities.
(a) Wind and ice. Each WCF shall be designed to withstand the effects of wind gusts
and ice to the standard designed by the American National Standards Institute as
prepared by the engineering departments of the Electronics Industry Association,
and Telecommunications Industry Association (ANSI/TIA-222, as amended), or to
the industry standard applicable to the structure.
(b) Aviation safety. WCF shall comply with all federal and state laws and regulations
concerning aviation safety.
(c) Interference. WCF shall not interfere with public safety communications or the
reception of broadband, television, radio or other communication services by
occupants of nearby properties.
(d) Radio frequency emissions. WCF shall not, by itself or in conjunction with other
WCFs existing on the same structure at the time of installation, generate radio
frequency emissions in excess of the standards and regulations of the FCC,
including but not limited to, the FCC Office of Engineering Technology Bulletin
65 entitled “Evaluating Compliance with FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to
Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields,” as amended.
(e) Signage. WCF owners shall post a sign in a readily visible location identifying the
name, phone number of a party to contact in the event of an Emergency, and permit
number. The only other signage permitted on the WCF shall be those required by
the FCC, or any other federal or state agency.
(f) Noise. WCF shall be operated and maintained so as not to produce noise in excess
of applicable noise standards under state law and the City Code, except in
Emergency situations requiring the use of a backup generator, where such noise
standards may be exceeded on a temporary basis only.
(g) Engineer seal and signature. All plans and drawings for a WCF shall contain a seal
and signature of a professional structural engineer, licensed in the State of
Delaware.
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(h) FCC license. Each Person that owns or operates a Tower-Based WCF shall submit
a copy of its current FCC license, including the name, address, and Emergency
telephone number for the operator of the facility.
23.92 Maintenance and Care of Wireless Communications Facilities.
(a) Standard of care. Any WCF shall be designed, constructed, operated, maintained,
repaired, modified and removed in strict compliance with all current applicable
technical, safety and safety-related codes, including but not limited to the most
recent editions of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Code, National
Electrical Safety Code, National Electrical Code, National Association of Tower
Erectors, or to the industry standard applicable to the structure.
(b) Maintenance. Any WCF shall at all times be kept and maintained in good condition,
order and repair by qualified maintenance and construction personnel, so that the
same shall not endanger the life of any Person or damage any property in the City.
Such maintenance shall be performed to ensure the upkeep of the WCF in order to
promote the safety and security of the City’s residents and utilize industry standard
technology for preventing failures and accidents. The following maintenance
requirements shall apply:
i. The WCF shall be fully automated and unattended on a daily basis and shall
be visited only for maintenance or Emergency repair.
ii. Such maintenance shall be performed to ensure compliance with applicable
structural safety standards and radio frequency emissions regulations.
iii. All maintenance activities shall conform to industry maintenance standards.
(c) Lighting. The WCF Applicant shall promptly report any outage or malfunction of
FAA-mandated lighting to the appropriate governmental authorities and to the City.
(d) Graffiti. Any graffiti on the WCF or on any Accessory Equipment shall be removed
at the sole expense of the owner within thirty (30) days of notification by the City.
23.93 Inspection of Wireless Communication Facilities. The City reserves the right to inspect
any WCF to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Appendix B: Zoning and any other
provisions found within the City Code or state or federal law. The City and/or its agents shall
have the authority to enter the lease area of any property upon which a WCF is located at any
time, upon reasonable notice to the operator, to ensure such compliance.
23.94 Construction and Repairs in the Right-of-way.
(a) Work in Right-of-Way. The City of Dover Electric Department and the City of
Dover Public Works Department, in consultation with the City Planning
Department, shall determine the time, place and manner of construction,
maintenance, repair and/or removal of all Small WCF in the ROW based on public
safety, traffic management, physical burden on the ROW, and related
considerations. All construction, maintenance, repair and/or removal of Small
WCF shall comply with the applicable requirements of the City code.
(b) Pole Repairs. In the event of damage to a Small WCF attached to a utility pole
owned or controlled by the City of Dover Electric Department, the owner of the
Small WCF shall be solely responsible for all costs associated with the repair of the
Small WCF, unless such damage was caused by the City’s own negligence or
willful misconduct.
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(c) Repairs of City property. In the event of damage to City property during installation
of any WCF, including utility poles, streets, sidewalks, streetlights, signs, or other
infrastructure, the company responsible for the damage shall make repairs accepted
by the City or shall reimburse the City for the cost of such repairs.
(d) Change or Alteration Required. Within ninety (90) days following written notice
from the City, or such longer period as the City determines is reasonably necessary or
such shorter period in the case of an emergency, an owner of a Small WCF in the
ROW shall, at its own expense, temporarily or permanently remove, relocate,
change or alter the position of any WCF when the City, consistent with its police
powers and applicable Public Utility Commission regulations, determines that such
removal, relocation, change or alteration is reasonably necessary under the
following circumstances:
i. The construction, repair, maintenance or installation of any City or other
public improvement in the right-of-way;
ii. The operations of the City or other governmental entity in the Right-of-
Way;
iii. Vacation of a street or road or the release of a utility easement; or
iv. An Emergency as determined by the City.
In such cases the City will make reasonable efforts to assist the WCF owner in
identifying and permitting an alternate location for the WCF.
23.95 Removal. In the event that use of a WCF is to be discontinued, the owner shall provide
written notice to the City of its intent to discontinue use and the date when the use shall be
discontinued and removed. Unused or abandoned WCF, or portions of WCF, shall be removed
as follows:
(a) Complete removal of the structure of a Tower-Based WCF shall require a
Demolition Permit in accordance with permit policies and procedures pursuant to
Appendix B, Article 8, Section 1 – Building Permit.
(b) Any unused portions of Tower-Based WCF, including Antennae, shall be removed
within ninety (90) days of the time of cessation of operations. All Replacements of
portions of a Tower-Based WCF previously removed are subject to the provisions
of this Section 23.
(c) All used or abandoned WCFs and Accessory Equipment shall be removed from the
wireless support structure within ninety (90) days of the cessation of operations at
the site unless a time extension is approved by the City.
(d) If the WCF or Accessory Equipment is not removed from the wireless support
structure within ninety (90) days of the cessation of operations at a site, or within
any longer period approved by the City, the WCF and/or associated facilities and
equipment may be removed by the City and the cost of removal assessed against
the owner of the WCF.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
That Appendix B – Zoning, Article 12 – Definitions of the Dover Code, be amended by inserting
the following in correct alphabetical order:
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Antenna: An apparatus designed for the purpose of emitting radiofrequency (RF) radiation,
to be operated or operating from a fixed location pursuant to Federal Communications
Commission authorization, for the provision of wireless service and any commingled
information services.
Wireless Communications Facility (WCF). An antenna facility or a wireless support
structure that is used for the provision of wireless service, whether such service is provided
on a stand-alone basis or commingled with other wireless communications services.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
That Appendix B – Zoning, Article 3 Section 20B – Industrial park manufacturing zone –
Industrial aviation and aeronautics center (IPM3) of the Dover Code, be amended to read as
follows:
20B.1 Uses permitted. In an IPM3 zone, no building or premises shall be used and no
building or part of a building shall be erected, which is arranged, intended or designed to
be used, in whole or in part, for any purpose, except the following, and in accordance with
performance standards review procedure as set forth in article 5 sections 8.2 and 8.6, and
subject to site development plan approval as set forth in article 10, section 2:
20B.11 Airports, spaceports, and related facilities, including passenger terminals,
cargo facilities, hangars, refueling operations, parking facilities and other uses
integral to airport or spaceport operations.
20B.12 Commercial or industrial uses that are related to aviation or aeronautics
and/or require direct access to an airport, spaceport, or aviation/aeronautics
services, including assembly or sale of aircraft or spacecraft, air frames, aircraft or
spacecraft engines, associated parts and components, radios or navigational
equipment, and similar products or services.
20B.13 Public and institutional uses that support the aviation or aeronautics
industries such as aviation or aeronautics technical schools, security services, and
inspection facilities.
20B.14 Bulk storage of fuel, lubricants, fire suppression and other materials
integral to design, construction, testing, maintenance, or operation of aircraft or
spacecraft.
20B.15 Printing, publishing, binding, packaging, storage, warehousing, and
transshipment and distribution.
20B.16 Business, professional, or administrative offices.20B.17 Radio or
television broadcasting towers, telecommunications towers, antenna arrays, and
receiving satellite dishes that support aviation, aeronautics, or related operations.
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20B.2 Conditional uses. The following uses are permitted, conditional upon the approval
of the planning commission in accordance with the procedures and subject to the general
conditions set forth in article 10, section 1. The application for conditional use shall clearly
demonstrate the relationship of the proposed use to an existing or proposed airport or
spaceport.
20B.21 Service establishments such as auto rental and travel agencies, commercial
parking lots and garages, automobile service stations, car washes, banks, gift shops,
newsstands, bookstores, restaurants, bars, medical offices, postal facilities, laundry
services, and similar facilities available to airport or spaceport users and employees.
20B.22 Radio or television broadcasting towers, tower based wireless
communications facilities, antenna arrays, and receiving satellite dishes that
support aviation, aeronautics, or related operations.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
That Appendix B – Zoning, Article 5 Section 21 – Public utility infrastructure of the Dover
Code, be amended to read as follows:
Section 21. - Public utility infrastructure.
Public utility infrastructure shall be permitted in all zones and generally exempt from the
requirements of Article 4—Zoning Bulk and Parking Regulations, except as provided in
this section.
21.1 Setback. The minimum setback for public utility structures shall be equal to
the setback of the zone in which the structure is located.
21.2 Fences. Fences shall be limited to a maximum height of eight feet above
ground.
21.3 Site development plan required. Site development plan approval in
accordance with article 10, section 2 hereof shall be required prior to the
issuance of building permits for the erection or enlargement of all structures
and related accessory structures.
21.4 Exceptions.
21.41 Electric power generation facilities shall be subject to all zoning
requirements.
21.42 Wireless communication facilities as defined in Article 5 Section 23
shall not be considered public utility infrastructure under the
provisions of this subsection and shall be subject to the provisions of
Article 5 Section 23.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
That Chapter 98 – Street, Sidewalks, Storm Sewers and Other Public Places of the Dover Code,
be amended by inserting a new Section 98-11 Placement of wireless communications facilities
within rights-of-way.
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Sec. 98-11. – Placement of wireless communications facilities within rights-of-way.
(a) Applicability. The provisions of this section shall apply to the use of rights-of-way as
dedicated to the city or as otherwise maintained by the city.
(b) Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this section, shall
have the meanings ascribed to them in this subsection, except where the context clearly
indicates a different meaning:
Wireless Communications Facility (WCF). An antenna facility or a wireless
support structure that is used for the provision of wireless service, whether such
service is provided on a stand-alone basis or commingled with other wireless
communications services.
Wireless Support Structure. A freestanding structure, pole, tower, or other building,
whether or not it has an existing antenna facility, that is used or to be used to support
the placement or installation of a wireless communication facility for the provision
of wireless service (whether on its own or comingled with other types of services).
(c) Uses of Rights-of-way Permit required. It shall be unlawful for any person to construct,
erect or affix any wireless support structure within or that encroaches upon any right-
of-way owned or maintained by the city, unless and until such use of the right-of-way
shall have been approved. A Rights-of-Way Use Permit shall be obtained from the city
manager or their designee.
(1) Permit Fees. Each application for permit shall be accompanied by a fee as
provided for in Appendix F – Fees and Fines.
(2) Annual Fee for Rights-of-Way Use. Each wireless support structure not
owned or maintained by the city located within or that encroaches upon any
right-of-way owned or maintained city shall be subject to an annual fee as
provided for in Appendix F – Fees and Fines.
(d) Approval required. Construction, erection or placement any wireless communication
facility or wireless support structure within or encroaches upon any right-of-way owned
or maintained by the city shall be in accordance with the provisions of Appendix B –
Zoning, Article 5 Section 23.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
That Appendix F – Fees and Fines of the Dover Code, be amended by inserting new sections, as
follows:
Chapter 98. – Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public Places
Chapter 98. Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public Fees and Fines
Places
Article I. In General
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Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 20
Sec. 98-11 Placement of wireless communications
facilities within rights-of-way
(c) Use of Rights of Way Permit
(1) Permit Fee $25 for ROW Permit
(2) Annual Fee for Rights-of-way Use No charge for WCF placement on
existing City owned wireless support
structure in City ROW
$220 for Placement of new wireless
support structure/pole in City ROW
$220 for WCF placement on a third
party/non-City wireless support
structure/pole in City ROW
Chapter 110. – Utilities
Chapter 110. Utilities Fees and Fines
Article II. Electric Service
Sec. 110-32. Pole attachment fee; use of Dover
Electric Department facilities
Subsection (4) Fees and changes;
Wireless Communications Facility $50 Annual Fee per Attachment on City
Attachment owned wireless support structure/pole
Appendix B. Zoning
Appendix B. Zoning Fees and Fines
Article 5. Supplementary Regulations
Sec. 23 Wireless Communications Facilities
Subsec. 23.5 Application Procedures
23.51 Location within Public Right-of-way
(f) Fee WCF Building Permit Fee is $25.00 for
first $1,000.00 of costs and $8.00 for
each additional $1,000.00 of costs or
multiples thereof up to $10,000,000.00
of costs
23.53 Eligible Facilities Request
(d) Fee WCF Building Permit Fee is $25.00 for
first $1,000.00 of costs and $8.00 for
each additional $1,000.00 of costs or
multiples thereof up to $10,000,000.00
of costs
23.54 Substantial Change Activity
(d) Fee WCF Building Permit Fee is $25.00 for
first $1,000.00 of costs and $8.00 for
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Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 21
each additional $1,000.00 of costs or
multiples thereof up to $10,000,000.00
of costs
23.55 New Facilities
(a) Conditional use authorization $425.00, plus $25.00 per acre of the area
required. or multiple thereof involved in the
Conditional Use Permit application
(d) Fee WCF Building Permit Fee is $25.00 for
first $1,000.00 of costs and $8.00 for
each additional $1,000.00 of costs or
multiples thereof up to $10,000,000.00
of costs
23.56 New Small WCF
(d) Fee WCF Building Permit Fee is $25.00 for
first $1,000.00 of costs and $8.00 for
each additional $1,000.00 of costs or
multiples thereof up to $10,000,000.00
of costs
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
That this Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon adoption.
ADOPTED: November 9, 2020
I:\DAC\2020 Applications\10 October 2020\MI-20-06 Text Amendments Wireless Communications
Facilities\ADOPTED Ordinance #2020-13 Wireless Communications Facilities 11-9-2020 Clean Version.docx
SYNOPSIS
This proposed Ordinance adds provisions for Wireless Communications Facilities (WCF) by
adding a new Section 23 – Wireless Communication Facilities to the Zoning Ordinance and
completing other amendments to the Dover Code of Ordinances. This proposed Ordinance
provides definitions; establishes certain general and specific standards relating to the location,
placement, construction and maintenance of Small WCF, Non-Tower Based WCF, and Tower-
Based WCF; provides for the regulations of WCF within the public rights-of-ways and outside
public rights-of-way on properties; and provides for the enforcement of said regulations. Also
associated with this Ordinance is the development of the City of Dover “Small Wireless
Communications Facility (SWCF) Design Manual” as referenced for design standards for Small
Wireless Communications Facilities.
(Sponsors: Hugg and City Manager’s Office)
Actions History:
2/11/2020 – Update on Provisions and Development of Ordinance: Wireless Communication Facilities at
Council Committee of the Whole – Utility Committee. Referred to Staff for continued work.
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Adopted Ordinance #2020-13 – Wireless Communications Facilities Page 22
7/14/2020 – Update and Presentation of Preliminary Draft Wireless Communications Facilities (WCF)
Ordinance Version 1A – Planning 7-8-2020 at Council Committee of the Whole – Utility Committee.
Referred to Staff for continued work.
9/15/2020 – Update and Presentation of Draft Wireless Communications Facilities (WCF) Ordinance
Version 2 – Planning 9-9-2020 at Council Committee of the Whole – Utility Committee. Recommend
Staff complete refinements and refer to City Council for First Reading and setting of Public Hearing
dates.
9/28/2020 – First Reading at City Council
10/19/2020 – Public Hearing and Review for Recommendation by Planning Commission
11/9/2020 – Public Hearing and Final Reading & Action at City Council
11/9/2020 – Adopted by City Council
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Item 5.
FINAL DRAFT
CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
SMALL WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY
(Small WCF) DESIGN MANUAL
This Small Wireless Communications Facility Design Manual (Small WCF Design Manual)
is part of the City of Dover Wireless Communication Facilities provisions as found in the Dover
Code of Ordinances, Appendix B – Zoning, Article 5 – Supplemental Regulations, Section 23 and
other referenced sections. The City’s Wireless Communications Facilities provisions were
adopted as Ordinance #2020-13 by action of the City Council on November 9, 2020 following
recommendation of the City of Dover Planning Commission (October 19, 2020).
The Small WCF Design Manual addresses the applicable design standards and the process for
application and review by the City of Dover for Small Wireless Communications Facility
applications. Small Wireless Communications Facilities have a specific definition and are
governed by the Dover Code of Ordinances and the Zoning Ordinance, Article 5 Section 23 which
outlines development regulations and application review procedures. This Small WCF Design
Manual is specifically referenced in Zoning Ordinance, Article 5 Section 23.6(c) as the source for
the Design Standards for Small Wireless Communications Facilities.
The installation of Small WCFs are subject to applicable Review Processes and Fees for Permits,
Applications, Pole Attachment provisions, and Annual Right-of-Way Usage. A Wireless
Communications Facility Building Permit (WCF Building Permit) is required for all proposed
Small Wireless Communications Facility activities whether involving modifications to existing
facilities or involving an attachment to an existing utility pole or similar support structure or a new
location for a Small Wireless Communications Facility. Review of Small Wireless
Communications Facilities proposals is an administrative review process subject to the adopted
Code regulations and this Small WCF Design Manual.
DESIGN STANDARDS for
SMALL WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
SECTION I. DEFINITIONS
The adopted Wireless Communications Facilities Ordinance (Zoning Ordinance, Article 5 Section
23) includes a series of definitions. For assistance in using the Small WCF Design Manual, the
following terms are defined as follows:
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Item 5.
1. Accessory Equipment – Any equipment serving or being used in conjunction with a
wireless communications facility or wireless support structure. The term “Accessory
Equipment” includes but is not limited to utility or transmission equipment, power
supplies, generators, batteries, cables, equipment buildings, cabinets and storage sheds,
shelters or similar structures.
2. Antenna – An apparatus designed for the purpose of emitting radio frequency (RF)
radiation, to be operated or operating from a fixed location pursuant to Federal
Communications Commission authorization, for the provision of wireless service and any
commingled information services.
3. Collocation – The mounting of one or more WCFs, including antennae, on a pre-existing
structure, or modifying a structure for the purpose of mounting or installing a WCF on that
structure.
4. Decorative Pole – A City-owned pole that is specially designed and placed for aesthetic
purpose and on which no appurtenances or attachments, other than a small wireless
communications facility, lighting, or municipal attachments (informational or directional
signage, temporary holiday/event attachments as banners or decorations, etc.) have been
placed or are permitted to be placed.
5. Prior Approved Design – A design for a small wireless communications facility that has
been reviewed and deemed to be in accordance with this Design Manual and approved for
construction by the City.
6. Small Wireless Communications Facility (Small WCF) - A wireless communications
facility that meets the following criteria:
(1) The structure on which antenna facilities are mounted
a) is 50 feet or less in height, or
b) is no more than 10 percent taller than other adjacent structures, or
c) is not extended to a height of more than 50 feet or by more than 10 percent
above its preexisting height as a result of the collocation of new antenna
facilities; and
(2) Each antenna associated with the deployment (excluding the associated
equipment) is no more than three (3) cubic feet in volume; and
(3) All antenna equipment associated with the facility (excluding antennas) are
cumulatively no more than 28 cubic feet in volume; and
(4) The facilities do not require antenna structure registration under 47 CFR Part
17; and
(5) The facilities are not located on Tribal lands, as defined under 36 CFR
§800.16(x); and
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Item 5.
(6) The facilities do not result in human exposure to radio frequency radiation in
excess of the applicable safety standards specified in 47 CFR §1.1307(b).
7. Stealth Technology — Camouflaging or screening methods applied to wireless
communications facilities and accessory equipment which render them more visually
appealing or blend the proposed facility into the existing structure or visual backdrop in a
manner appropriate to the site’s context and surrounding environment. Such methods
include, but are not limited to, architecturally screened roof-mounted antennae, building-
mounted antennae painted to match the existing structure and facilities constructed to
resemble trees, shrubs, and light poles.
8. Underground Utility Area – A portion of the City in which all utility installations are
required to be installed underground on a non-discriminatory basis pursuant to Section 110-
31 of the Dover Code of Ordinances. The Section 110-31 incorporates the “Electric Service
Handbook” by reference.
9. Wireless Communications Facility (WCF) - An antenna facility or a wireless support
structure that is used for the provision of wireless service, whether such service is provided
on a stand-alone basis or commingled with other wireless communications services.
10. Wireless Support Structure - A freestanding structure, pole, tower, or other building,
whether or not it has an existing antenna facility, that is used or to be used to support the
placement or installation of a wireless communication facility for the provision of wireless
service (whether on its own or comingled with other types of services).
SECTION II. GENERAL DESIGN STANDARDS FOR SMALL WIRELESS
COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES
Small Wireless Communications Facilities (Small WCF) are governed by the regulations found in
Zoning Ordinance, Article 5 Section 23.6. Small WCF may be located within the public rights-of-
way or on other property in all zoning districts. In addition to the Location and Development
Regulations found within the Code, the following Design Standards are presented.
1. Applicants for Small Wireless Communications Facility locations shall first consider
collocation on an existing City owned utility pole, or a replacement with a new pole in the
same general location and matching to the maximum extent possible the existing style,
color, materials, and configuration of the pole being replaced.
2. Small Wireless Communications Facilities shall only be located on distribution voltage
electric utility poles meeting the approval of the City of Dover Electric Department. These
installations will be a minimum of six (6) feet above the secondary conductors. Installation
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above primary conductors is prohibited. Installation on transmission voltage poles is
prohibited.
3. Small Wireless Communications Facilities may be considered for placement on an existing
Decorative Pole when the applicant provides documentation showing that such Decorative
Pole is the only technically feasible location for placement and that no suitable alternative
sites exist. A replacement Decorative Pole of similar style or the addition of a Decorative
Pole may be used if accepted by the City Manager or their designee.
4. The viability of any existing wireless support structures within 100 feet of the proposed
Small Wireless Communications Facility location shall be evaluated. The Applicant must
demonstrate that the alternative candidates are inferior with respect to technical facility,
cost, or terms of use prior to a new wireless support structure being authorized.
5. Small Wireless Communications Facility locations must comply with applicable
provisions set forth in Zoning Ordinance, Article 5 Section 23.52 for the Wireless
Communications Facilities as related to Historic Districts, Airport Environs Overlay Zone
(AEOZ), and Environmentally Sensitive Areas.
6. Small Wireless Communications Facilities shall comply with the maximum height
permitted in the zoning district to the extent technically feasible.
7. Small Wireless Communications Facilities shall be designed and constructed to minimize
aesthetic impact on the surrounding neighborhood in accordance with this Small WCF
Design Manual to the extent technically feasible.
8. Stealth technology methods to camouflage or screen shall be utilized to render Small
Wireless Communications Facilities more visually appealing or to blend the proposed
facility into its wireless support structure and/or the visual backdrop of the placement.
Methods should be appropriate to the site’s context and surrounding environment.
9. Small Wireless Communications Facility shall not extend beyond the boundaries of the
rights-of-way unless approved on a case-by-case basis by the City Manager or their
designee.
10. The wireless support structure and related equipment of the Small Wireless
Communications Facility shall not obstruct vehicular, pedestrian, or cyclist traffic or sight
lines in an unsafe manner that obstructs, impedes or hinders the usual travel or public
safety.
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11. Small Wireless Communications Facilities shall comply with applicable federal and state
standards regarding pedestrian access and movement.
12. Small Wireless Communications Facilities shall comply, to the extent consistent with
applicable state and federal law, the Americans with Disabilities Act, guidelines adopted
by the City, and all applicable requirements of the City Code relating to streets and
sidewalks as established by the Dover Code of Ordinances, Chapter 98.
13. Small Wireless Communications Facilities shall be installed and maintained in compliance
with the National Electric Safety Code and the National Electrical Code, as applicable.
14. Small Wireless Communications Facilities shall be designed to withstand the effects of
wind gusts and ice to the standard designed by the American National Standards Institute
as prepared by the engineering departments of the Electronics Industry Association and
Telecommunications Industry Association (ANSI/TIA-222, as amended), or to the industry
standard applicable to the structure.
15. Any existing City-owned utility pole requiring replacement that is currently utilizing a
concrete base will have the concrete base removed and replaced with a breakaway steel
screw in foundation. This foundation type is not required for third party pole installations.
SECTION III. ANTENNA AND ACCESSORY EQUIPMENT STANDARDS
The following standards are presented for Antenna, Accessary Equipment, and Wiring as
associated with Small Wireless Communications Facilities.
1. Antenna Standards
a. Any Antenna associated with a Small Wireless Communications Facility shall not
exceed three (3) cubic feet in volume.
b. All pole-top Antennas shall be flush-mounted as closely to the top of the pole as
technically feasible. Location must be a minimum of six (6) feet above secondary
conductors on a utility pole.
c. All Antennas shall be of a design, style, and color that reasonably matches the pole
upon which they are attached.
d. Any necessary pole-top extension shall be of the minimum height necessary to
achieve separation from the existing pole attachments; and a minimum clearance
of six (6) feet above secondary distribution wires.
e. Any Antenna mounted on a lateral standoff bracket shall protrude no more than
necessary to meet clearances.
f. If mounted on an existing structure, Antenna shall not impair the function of said
structure.
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g. Antenna placement shall not materially impair light, air, or views from adjacent
windows to the extent technically feasible.
h. No more than two (2) collocated Small Wireless Communications Facilities shall
be permitted on a single utility pole.
2. Accessory Equipment Standards
a. Accessory Equipment shall not exceed twenty-eight (28) cubic feet in volume.
Equipment utilized solely for the minimization or mitigation of the aesthetic impact
of the Small Wireless Communications Facility shall not be included in the
Accessory Equipment volume calculation.
b. Accessory Equipment shall be mounted flush to the side of a pole, or as near flush
to the side of a pole as technically feasible.
c. Accessory Equipment shall be mounted to provide a minimum of eight (8) feet
vertical clearance from ground level.
d. Meter socket installations shall be no lower than four (4) feet and no higher than
six (6) feet above finished grade. If installed in a pole manufactured to house Small
WCF equipment, the pole will be positioned to allow a minimum of three (3) feet
clearance to allow access to the meter.
e. Accessory Equipment and its attachment hardware (i.e. banding, straps) shall be of
a color that reasonably matches the pole or wireless support structure upon which
such Accessory Equipment is mounted.
f. To the extent feasible, Accessory Equipment shall be contained within a single
equipment shroud or cabinet. Such equipment shroud or cabinet shall be of the
smallest dimensions technically feasible.
g. Small Wireless Communications Facilities shall post a sign in a readily visible
location identifying the owner’s permit number and the name and phone number of
a party to contact in the event of an emergency. The only other signage permitted
shall be that required by the FCC or any other federal or state agency. All signage
associated with a Small Wireless Communications Facility shall be reviewed as
part of the WCF Building Permit process.
h. Accessory Equipment placement shall not materially impair light, air or views from
adjacent windows. To the extent technically feasible, all Accessory Equipment
shall be placed away from adjacent windows and the primary pattern of pedestrian
and vehicular traffic.
i. Accessory Equipment shall not feature any lighting, including flashing indicator
lights, unless required by state or federal law.
3. Wiring Standards
a. Exposed wiring is prohibited on any Small Wireless Communications Facility,
Accessory Equipment or Accessory Equipment enclosure.
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b. Transmission, fiber, power cables and any other wiring shall be contained within
any pole for which such concealment is technically feasible. If wiring cannot be
contained within the pole, all wiring shall be contained within conduit or U-guard
that is flush-mounted to the pole.
c. Any conduit or U-guard shall be of a color that reasonably matches the pole to
which the Small Wireless Communications Facility is attached.
d. All wiring shall be installed without excessive slack or extra cable storage on the
pole. Loops or coils of extra wiring shall not be attached to or otherwise visibly
stored on any pole.
e. Service lines must be undergrounded whenever feasible to avoid additional
overhead lines.
SECTION IV. POLE STANDARDS
The following standards are presented for the types of Poles as wireless support structures for
Small Wireless Communications Facilities.
1. Replacement Utility Poles.
a. Any replacement utility poles utilized as wireless support structures shall comply
with the following requirements to the extent that the requirements do not conflict
with the standards and requirements of the owner of the wireless support structure
being replaced:
i. The maximum height of any proposed replacement utility pole shall be: 1)
no more than ten (10%) percent taller than the tallest existing utility pole in
the public rights-of-way within a two hundred fifty (250) foot radius of the
proposed Small Wireless Communications Facility; or 2) fifty (50) feet
above ground level, whichever is greater.
ii. Any replacement utility pole shall be of comparable materials and design to
the existing utility pole unless otherwise authorized by owner. All
attachment hardware will match, as much as possible, to the color of the
pole being installed.
iii. Any replacement utility pole shall be placed within five (5) feet of the
existing utility pole being replaced.
iv. Any replacement utility pole shall be designed to accommodate all uses that
existed on the existing utility pole prior to replacement. As part of an
application for a Small Wireless Communications Facility, the applicant
shall provide documentation from a structural engineer licensed in the State
of Delaware confirming that the replacement utility pole, Small Wireless
Communications Facility, and prior existing uses shall be structurally
sound.
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v. Any replacement utility pole shall not deviate from the predominant pattern
of existing adjacent structures including their alignment to the extent
possible.
b. Replacement of any City owned utility pole shall additionally comply with the
following requirements:
i. Any existing City owned utility pole requiring replacement that is currently
utilizing a concrete base will have the concrete base removed and replaced
with a breakaway steel screw-in foundation.
ii. City owned poles requiring replacement that contain lighting attached with
davit arms must allow for the installation of the same lighting configuration
on the new pole.
iii. Replaced City owned poles will be capable of supporting davit arms for
lights. If the original arm cannot be installed on the new pole, a new arm
will be provided by the applicant.
2. New Small WCF Poles
a. The maximum height of any new Small Wireless Communications Facility pole
when located in the public right-of-way shall be: 1) no more than ten (10%) percent
taller than the tallest existing utility or wireless support structure in the public
rights-of-way within a two hundred fifty (250) foot radius of the proposed Small
Wireless Communications Facility; or 2) fifty (50) feet above ground level,
whichever is greater.
b. Any new pole shall be installed in accordance with the predominant pattern of
existing adjacent structures including their alignment to the extent possible.
c. New poles shall be of the same or similar material and color of existing adjacent
structures.
d. To the extent technically feasible, a new Small WCF pole shall not be installed:
i. Directly in front of any building entrance or exit so that it would interfere
with ingress or egress;
ii. Directly in front of a window of any residential structure;
iii. Within ten (10) feet of the edge of any driveway;
iv. In the public rights-of-way directly opposite any driveway;
v. In a manner that unreasonably increases visual clutter or disorganization of
utility infrastructure along the street; or
vi. In violation of the Design Standards contained herein.
3. Decorative Poles:
a. Decorative Poles shall be required in any portion of the City where all utility
installations are required to be installed underground on a non-discriminatory basis
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pursuant to Dover Code of Ordinances, Section 110-31 unless not technically
feasible.
b. Decorative Poles shall be required for the replacement of any existing Decorative
Pole.
c. For any replacement Decorative Pole, the new Decorative Pole shall match the
existing Decorative Pole in shape, design, color, and material.
d. Replacement Decorative Poles shall also comply with the requirements of
replacement utility poles found in Section IV, Item 1 of this Small WCF Design
Manual.
SECTION V. REVIEW AND APPROVAL
There are review and approval processes established for Small Wireless Communications
Facilities as part of the adopted Wireless Communications Facilities provisions.
A Wireless Communications Facility Building Permit (WCF Building Permit) is required for
all proposed Small Wireless Communications Facility activities whether involving modifications
to existing facilities or involving an attachment to an existing utility pole or similar support
structure or a new location for a Small Wireless Communications Facility. An Application for
Wireless Communications Facility Building Permit shall be submitted on the proper form with
accompanying documentation to the City of Dover, Delaware Department of Planning &
Inspections prior to initiation of any construction or installation. The Department will coordinate
an administrative review for proposals under the adopted Code regulations and this Small WCF
Design Manual.
The following is a summary of the review and approval process for Small Wireless
Communications Facilities.
1. Consultation
a. Applicants are encouraged to become familiar with the regulations and application
review procedures for Wireless Communications Facilities for the City of Dover,
Delaware.
b. The applicant may choose to participate in a pre-application consultation meeting
with City Planner or their designee in order to discuss any location, aesthetic or
safety concerns of the City with respect to the proposed Small WCF.
c. The City Planner shall consult with the City Manager, the Dover Electric
Department, the City Public Works Department and any other applicable City
departments and shall advise the applicant of any findings or recommendations.
2. Application Submission
a. A Wireless Communications Facilities Building Permit package consisting of the
WCF Building Permit Application Form, documentation materials, and Fees are to
be submitted to the Department of Planning & Inspections.
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b. The City Planner shall create a Checklist to be used to determine the requirements
for submittal of a “Complete Permit Application.” A Sample Checklist is attached.
c. The minimum information required for the WCF Building Permit includes the
following:
i. Name and address of applicant, including contact person information
(phone, email, and mailing address).
ii. Address of the proposed Small WCF which may be street address, parcel
number, or other definitive location as may be relevant to the location.
iii. Physical geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude)
iv. Design and construction details presented in plans and drawings
d. For Small WCF installations within City rights-of-way, a Rights-of-way Use
Permit with Fee is required.
e. For Small WCF installations on City-owned support structures (poles), submission
of proof of valid Master License Agreement is required.
f. For Small WCF installations on wireless support structures owned by other non-
City entities, proof of authorization from the owner is required.
3. Application Review
a. The City Planner shall reasonably determine whether a proposed Small Wireless
Communications Facility design complies with the requirements of the Small
WCF Design Manual and Code regulations.
b. The City Planner shall coordinate the review of Application Submission by the
appropriate City Departments including the City Manager, the Dover Electric
Department, the City Public Works Department, and the City Department of
Planning & Inspections. The City Planner shall advise the applicant of any findings
or recommendations from the review.
c. The City Planner may impose such additional, reasonable conditions as determined
by the City to minimize the impact of the Small Wireless Communications Facility
on the neighborhood in which to be located.
d. A WCF Building Permit will not be issued until a Rights-of-Way Use Permit and/or
City of Dover Pole Agreement/Master License Agreement are approved and in
place if required for the Small Wireless Communications Facility.
e. The review and the resulting approval or denial of the WCF Building Permit shall
be provided in writing to the applicant. The WCF Building Permit may be issued
by paper copy or authorized electronic copy.
4. Waivers of Small WCF Design Manual
a. Any requests for a waiver of the requirements of this Small WCF Design Manual
shall be considered on a case-by-case basis by the City Planner. The waiver request
shall be approved upon a determination that such waiver is in the best interests of
the City or necessary to avoid the effective prohibition of wireless service pursuant
to the Rules of the Federal Communications Commission.
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b. Upon approval of a design for a Small Wireless Communications Facility requiring
a waiver from the requirements of this Small WCF Design Manual, such design
shall be incorporated by reference into this Design Manual as a Prior Approved
Design.
c. A record of Prior Approved Designs shall be kept on file at the City Department of
Planning and Inspections Office.
SECTION VI. APPROVAL TIMING
Approval timing for Permits and Applications shall be as set forth in Section 23.57 of the City of
Dover Wireless Communications Facilities regulations (Dover Code of Ordinances, Appendix B-
Zoning, Article 5, Section 23 and referenced sections). The specific approval timeframes are also
subject to the tolling procedures established by the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC).
SECTION VII. AMENDMENT OF DESIGN MANUAL
This Small Wireless Communications Facility Design Manual may be amended as necessary
to comply with adopted regulations for Wireless Communications Facilities, the Dover Code of
Ordinances, and other related regulations and policies established by the City affecting this
activity. A copy of the current Small WCF Design Manual shall be available from the
Department of Planning & Inspections.
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DRAFT Small Wireless Communications Facility Design Checklist
The information detailed in the following Checklist shall be included with any Application for a
Small Wireless Communications Facility (Small WCF):
Item Description Included in
Application?
Yes No
WCF Building • Complete Wireless Communications Facility
Permit Form Building Permit Application form for each
proposed Small WCF installation.
Cover Letter • The Application shall include a cover letter
detailing the location of the proposed Small WCF
site, summary of equipment being proposed, and a
certification that the applicant has included all
information required by the City Code.
Plan & • Plan and drawings shall show existing wireless
Drawings support structure to be utilized or the proposed
wireless support structure and equipment
associated with the Small WCF.
• The manufacturer and model, proposed location,
and dimensions of each piece of equipment should
be clearly shown.
• Before and after diagrams of the proposed site
showing the dimensional changes shall be
included.
• If the existing pole supports existing attachments,
the site plan shall show the location and dimensions
of all such attachments.
• If installation of a new utility pole or decorative
pole is being proposed, the site plan shall include
the color, dimensions, material and type of pole
proposed.
• The site plan shall show the location of any existing
wireless support structures within one hundred
(100) feet of the proposed Small WCF location,
including but not limited to structures, commercial
structures, light poles, traffic signals, traffic
signage, and existing poles.
• The plan and drawings shall show location and
information of existing utility poles within two
hundred fifty (250) feet radius of the proposed
Small WCF location.
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Item Description Included in
Application?
Yes No
Volume • Provide dimensions and volume calculations of
Calculations each Antenna.
• Provide dimensions and volume calculations of
Accessory Equipment.
Photo • Photo simulations shall depict the Small WCF from
Simulations at least two locations near the proposed site.
• The photo simulations should reflect the proposed
design and location of all Antenna and Accessory
Equipment associated with the Small WCF.
Material & • Information on material and color of Wireless
Color Support Structure and Accessory Equipment to
match mounting location.
• Information on methods employed to achieve
aesthetic uniformity of the site.
Wiring • All proposed wires associated with the Small WCF
shall be clearly shown.
• A depiction and description of the concealment
methods to be utilized for the wiring shall be
included.
Signage • Signage shall be posted in a readily visible location
and identify the owner’s permit number and the
name and phone number of a party to contact in the
event of an emergency.
• If required, FCC-mandated signage is permitted.
Applicant shall identify such signage in its
application.
Right-of-way • Copy of Rights-of-Way Use Permit for Small WCF
Placement location, if required.
• Information to demonstrate that line of sight and
paths of travel are not impaired.
Authorizations • Submit documentation of a valid Master License
Agreement for Pole Attachments to City owned
poles.
• Submit documentation of authorization to attach to
non-City owned support structures.
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Item 6.
BY-LAWS OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
OF
CITY OF DOVER
---------------------------------------
OBJECTIVES
Section 1. The objectives and purposes of the Historic District Commission of the City of
Dover, Delaware, are those set forth in Dover Code, Appendix B, Article 10, Section 3, and
amendments and supplements, thereto, and those powers and duties delegated to the Historic
District Commission by the City Council of the City of Dover pursuant to such statute.
POWERS. DUTIES AND PROCEDURES
Section 2. The duties, powers and procedures of the Historic District Commission are as set
forth in the following documents:
(a) The Ordinance adopted by the City Council establishing such Historic District Commission;
(b) The building Zone Ordinance as to matters relating to the Architectural Plan Review
Certification process, the designation of Historic District boundaries, historic preservation and
the establishment of standards and guidelines for preservation and conservation of Historic
District zones.
OFFTCERS
Section 3.1 The officers of the Historic District Commission shall consist of a Chairman and
a Vice-Chairman.
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Item 6.
Section 3.2 The Chairman shall preside at the meetings and hearings of the Historic District
Commission and shall have the duties usually conferred upon a presiding officer. He shall
continue to exercise the prerogatives of an individual member of the Commission while
performing the duties of presiding officer.
Section 3.3 The Vice Chairman shall be the presiding officer in the absence of the Chairman.
RECORDING AND CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
Section 4. The Commission shall appoint a Secretary who shall not be a member of the Historic
District Commission or an officer, and shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
(a) Prepare agenda for all meetings with the Chairman and provide notice of meetings to
Commission members.
(b) Keep minutes of all meetings, and records of the Commission.
(c) Act as agent for the Commission in receiving submissions, applications, correspondence, etc.
(d) Act as agent for the Commission in arranging for notice of public hearings and notifying
interested parties of Commission actions as authorized by the Commission.
OFFICIAL RECORDS
Section 5. The City Clerk shall be the official custodian of the records of the Historic District
Commission and shall make them available to the public as provided by law. The City Clerk
may designate the office of the Secretary of the Commission or the Planning Office as the place
where such records shall be kept.
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Item 6.
ELECTIONS OF OFFICERS
Section 6.1 The officers shall be elected by the Historic District Commission at the annual
organization meeting which shall be the regular scheduled meeting in November of each year.
Section 6.2 A candidate receiving a majority vote of the entire membership of the Historic
District Commission shall be declared elected and shall serve for one year or until his or her
successor shall take office.
Section 6.3 Vacancies in offices shall be filled by the Historic District Commission at any
scheduled or special meeting.
Section 6.4 The Chairman and Vice-Chairman may serve two appointed terms. (Six Years).
MEETINGS
Section 7.1 The Historic District Commission shall hold one regular public meeting during each
calendar month. The Chairman may cancel a regular meeting upon determination that there is
no pending business or new application for Architectural Review Certificates; however at a
minimum the Commission shall meeting quarterly.
Section 7.2 The monthly meeting date for the coming year shall be established by a majority
of the Commission at its organization meeting of the year. The date of the public meeting can
be changed during the year by a majority of the Commission.
Section 7.3 The Commission will consider all applications concerning matters within its
jurisdiction only at its public meetings. All items to be submitted for consideration at any public
meeting shall be submitted in complete form for Commission consideration not less than thirty
days prior to said meeting. No items submitted subsequent to this time shall be placed upon the
Agenda except by a majority vote of the Commission members present at such meeting. The
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Item 6.
official date of receipt of any matter presented to the Commission shall be the date of the first
public meeting at which such matter is received for consideration. Any maximum time periods
established by the Zoning Ordinance or other local laws limiting the time for consideration of
any matter by the Historic District Commission shall commence on such date of receipt.
Section 7.4 A majority of the membership of the Commission shall constitute a quorum. The
Commission may act on any matter by a majority vote of such quorum.
Section 7.5 All formal votes to record the decision of the Commission on any matter referred
to it shall be taken only by a quorum at a public meeting. By a majority vote of those members
present the Commission may convene in executive session. However, all formal votes to record
the Commission's decision shall only be taken during periods in which such meetings are open
to the public.
Section 7.6 Special meeting may be called by the Chairman or by a majority of the Commission,
providing not less than 24 hours notice by writing or telephone is given to eachmember of the
Commission. Such meetings shall be executive sessions at which no formal votes
shall be taken.
Section 7.7 All public and special meetings shall be held in the City Hall or other public facility
with proper public notification.
AGENDA
Section 8. The Secretary shall prepare the proposed Agenda for each public meeting, with the
Chairman not less than ten days prior to the date of such meeting, and shall transmit a copy of
such Agenda to each Commission member on such date of preparation. No items will appear
on such proposed Agenda except those for which applications or written requests have been
received not less than thirty days prior to the date of the public monthly meeting as set forth in
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Item 6.
Section 7 above. The Commission may amend the proposed Agenda by a majority vote of those
members present.
Section 9.1 The order of business at public meetings shall be a follows:
(a) Roll Call.
(b) Adoption of Minutes of previous meetings.
(c) Approval of Agenda
(d) Communications
(e) Report of Officers and Committees
(f) Old Business
(g) New Business
(h) Referrals, Administrative Reviews, Petitions, Applications and Other Matters presented by the
public.
Section 9.2 The order of business at special meetings shall be as determined by theCommission.
Section 9.3 At all meetings and hearings attended by the public, the Chairman shall make a
brief statement indicating the nature of each item on the Agenda, except that in the case of
petitions, applications and other matters presented by the public, such statement shall be made
by the person introducing the matter.
Section 9.4 Minutes of all public and special meetings of the Commission shall form part of the
records of the Commission and shall be available to the public when duly adopted by the
Commission.
COMMITEES
Section 10.1 The Chairman may appoint special subcommittees of the Commission from time
to time as needed to investigate or research certain matters pertaining to the Historic District
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Item 6.
Commission. Such subcommittees shall consist of at least one member of the Commission and
may also consist of members of the general public. All members shall serve at the pleasure of
the chairman.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Section 11 The Commission shall hold public hearings as required by statute and applicable
Ordinances of the City and the State of Delaware. In addition to those required by law, the
Historic District Commission may at its discretion hold public hearing when it considers that
such hearings will be in the public interest.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Section 12 No member shall vote on any Architectural Review Certificate application where
They have a conflict of interest. A conflict of interest shall at a minimum be any vested interest
by a member or a member's immediate family in a project being reviewed by the Commission
or ownership in property by a member or a member's immediate family that is within 200 feet
of a project being reviewed.
AMENDMENTS
Section 13 These By-Laws may be amended at any time by a majority vote of the entire
membership of the Historic District Commission.
Original Version (retyped 1.9.2004)
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Item 7.
CITY OF DOVER
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
DRAFT 11-12-2021
Schedule of application deadlines and Historic District Commission meeting dates for the year of
2021. The submittal procedures for the Historic District Commission are outlined in Zoning
Ordinance, Article 10, Section 3.2. Prior to application submission a Pre-Application Meeting
with Planning Staff is required.
MONTH DEADLINE DATE MEETING DATE
JANUARY 12/18/2020 01/21/2021
FEBRUARY 01/15/2021 02/18/2021
MARCH 02/12/2021 03/18/2021
APRIL 03/12/2021 04/15/2021
MAY 04/16/2021 05/20/2021
JUNE 05/14/2021 06/17/2021
JULY 06/11/2021 07/15/2021
AUGUST 07/16/2021 08/19/2021
SEPTEMBER 08/13/2021 09/16/2021
OCTOBER 09/17/2021 10/21/2021
NOVEMBER 10/15/2021 11/18/2021
DECEMBER 11/12/2021 12/16/2021
JANUARY 12/17/2021 01/20/2022
For Information Contact: City of Dover
Department of Planning & Inspections
15 Loockerman Plaza
P.O. Box 475
Dover, DE 19903
(302) 736-7196 Phone
(302) 736-4217 Fax
www.cityofdover.com
Email: compplan@dover.de.us
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Item 8.
City of Dover, DE 2019 Comprehensive Plan
File: M:\PS_DATA\2018_Comp_Plan_Draft_Maps\Comp_Plan 2018_FINAL_MXDS\Map 6-1A Historic Resources Map.mxd
Map 6-1A: Historic Resources - Downtown Area As Adopted on January 13, 2020
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Dover Boundary
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Parcels
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Hydrology
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Victorian Dover Historic District
Dover Green Historic District
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Inset Map
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to the accuracy of the material, including its accuracy, availability, use, and misuse. In
no event shall the City be liable for any direct or indirect damages suffered by the
Recipient or others arising from any inadequacies of the digital data or the Recipient's
use of this data. The material is in the public domain and may be copied without
permission. Citation to the source would be appreciated. Any errors or omissions in the
material should be reported to the City of Dover, Delaware's Public Works GIS 58
Division.
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Item 8.
City of Dover, DE 2019 Comprehensive Plan
File: M;\PS_DATA\2018_Comp_Plan_Draft_Maps\Comp_Plan_2018_FINAL_MXDS\Map 6-1B Historic Resources Map.mxd
Map 6-1B: Historic Resources - Citywide As Adopted on January 13, 2020
0 2,500
Dover Boundary
LEGEND
5,000 Feet
¯
Roads
Hydrology
Water Bodies
National Register
City of Dover Historic District Zone
National Register Districts
Victorian Dover Historic District
Dover Green Historic District
Other National Register Districts Little Creek Hundred
Rural Historic District
0 1,500 3,000 Feet
Inset Map
PAPER MAP DISCLAIMER:
By acceptance of this map material you agree to the following: This map material is
made available by the City of Dover, Delaware as a public service. The material is for
reference purposes only, and the City makes no warranty, re presentation, or guaranty as
to the accuracy of the material, including its accuracy, availability, use, and misuse. In
no event shall the City be liable for any direct or indirect damages suffered by the
Recipient or others arising from any inadequacies of the digital data or the Recipient's
use of this data. The material is in the public domain and may be copied without
permission. Citation to the source would be appreciated. Any errors or omissions in the
material should be reported to the City of Dover, Delaware's Public Works GIS 59
Division.
Paj 60
All Dover Historic Districts Item 8.
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City of Dover Historic District
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Item 8.
Historic Preservation
C I T Y O F D O V E R , D E L A W A R E
H I S T O R I C D I S T R I C T C O M M I S S I O N
D E P A R T M E N T O F P L A N N I N G & I N S P E C T I O N S
T w o T y p e s o f d e s i g n a t i o n
L o c a l H i s t o r i c d i s t r i c t
A n d
N a t i o n a l R e g i s t e r o f H i s t o r i c P l a c e s
There are two type of designation: a historic district established by
the local government through ordinances and those individual
properties or historic districts listed in the National Register of
Historic Places, a federal designation program.
The following are definitions of each type from the City of Dover’s
Zoning Ordinance.
Local Historic District
Historic district: The geographic areas of Dover that have been for Dover covers the
designated by the City of Dover, and graphically illustrated on the official corridor along Loockerman
zone map of the City of Dover, as possessing a significant concentration
Street between the railroad
of properties, buildings, structures or objects associated with and
representative of the historical development of Dover and which meet at tracks to the St. Jones River
least one of the following criteria: on the east and along the
(a) Exemplifies or reflects the broad cultural, political, economic, State Street corridor from
or social history of Dover, Kent County, the State of Delaware, or the just north of Division Street
United States of America; or to South Street. See map for
(b) Is associated with the lives of persons of historic importance specific boundaries.
or with events of historic significance to Dover, Kent County, the State of
Delaware, or the United States of America; or
(c) Embodies distinguishing architectural characteristics which
are invaluable
resources for the study, understanding and appreciation of periods,
styles, society, methods of construction, craftsmanship and the use of
indigenous materials; or
(d) Represents the notable work of master builders, designers or Within the City of Dover are
architects whose designs, construction and craftsmanship have been three National Register
recognized as distinctive and whose work has influenced the period of Historic Districts: Dover
time in which they lived. Zoning Ordinance, Article 12 Definitions Green Historic District,
Victorian Dover Historic
National Register of Historic Places: A federal list of cultural resources District, and part of the Little
worthy of preservation, authorized under the National Historic Creek Hundred Rural
Preservation Act of 1966 as part of a national program to coordinate and Historic District. The City
support public efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect the nation's historic
and archaeological resources. The National Register program is adminis-
also includes twelve (12)
tered by the state historic preservation office and by the National Park individual properties listed in
Service under the Department of the Interior. Zoning Ordinance, Article 12 the National Register.
Definitions
61
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Item 8.
P a g e 2
B a s i c D i f f e r e n c e s
The basic differences in the protection and requirements between a historic district of local
designation and National Register listing of a historic property/district:
L o c a l D e s i g n a t i o n a s a
H i s t o r i c D i s t r i c t
(As part of a Historic Preservation Ordinance)
• Designates historic properties on the basis of local criteria and local
Procedures.
• Often included as part of local zoning and land use regulations.
BENEFITS OF LOCAL
• Sets boundaries on the distribution pattern of historic properties, and other
HISTORIC DISTRICTS
community considerations.
• Local districts
• Provides recognition of a community’s significant properties. protect the investment
• Coupled with design review process, such as a historic preservation of owners and
commission or architectural review board, provides protection of character- residents.
defining exterior features of a property, but, in many cases, not historic • Local districts
interiors or archaeological sites. encourage better
design.
• May qualify a property for a form of financial assistance, such as a local
tax incentive for historic preservation, if the local government has passed a tax • Local districts help
the environment.
incentives ordinance.
• Educational
• Can provide for review of proposed demolitions within the district, and benefits
provide delays to allow for preservation alternatives to be considered. • A local district can
• Can require local commission review and approval for all changes to the result in a positive
exterior appearance of historic properties, and review approval for all economic impact from
construction, such as infill, e.g. adjacent new buildings on a site or on vacant tourism.
parcels. • The protection of
local historic districts
can enhance business
recruitment potential.
N a t i o n a l R e g i s t e r L i s t i n g
(As an honorary status with some federal financial incentives) • Local districts
provide social and
• Designates historic properties based on uniform national criteria and psychological benefits.
procedures
• Set boundaries for historic district based on the actual distribution pattern of
intact historic properties in the area.
• Provides recognition by the federal government that an area has historical or archaeological
significance.
• Requires the effects of federally assisted work projects (actions) on historic properties be con-
sidered prior to the commencement of work. Makes available federal tax incentives for qualified
rehabilitation projects. Requires conformance to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Reha-
bilitation (36 CFR 67)
• Makes a property eligible for certain types of grants (when available). Work projects associated
with certain grants require conformance to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treat-
ment of Historic Properties (36 CFR 68).
62
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Item 8.
P a g e 3
P a r t s o f a P r e s e r v a t i o n O r d i n a n c e
• Statement of purpose.
• Creation of the Historic District Commission
Refer to City of Dover • Commission duties and powers
Code of Creation and purpose. There shall be a historic district commission for
Ordinances, Appendix B: the purpose of assisting the planning commission and city planner in re-
Zoning Ordinance: viewing applications for architectural review certifications as specified in
subsection 3.2; and for making recommendations for designation of his-
Article 3 Section 21 toric district zones; and for establishing guidelines for the preservation
Historic District and conservation of historic district zones; and for advising other officials
and departments in the City of Dover in matters concerning historic
Article 10 Section 3 preservation; and for reviewing all proposed National Register nomina-
Historic District tions in the City of Dover; and for acting as a liaison on behalf of the City
Commission and of Dover to individuals and organizations concerned with historic preser-
Architectural vation; and for carrying out programs of historic preservation education in
Review the City of Dover. Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.11
• Outlines designation process for the Historic District
• Sets out design criteria to govern design review
Refer to the following Architectural review standards.
guidelines: An architectural review certificate may be issued if it is found that the
architectural style, general design, height, bulk and setbacks,
Secretary of the Interior’s arrangement, location and materials and structures affecting the exterior
Standards for appearance are generally in harmony with neighboring structures and
Rehabilitation complementary to the traditional architectural standards of the historic
district as set forth in the historic district design guidelines and standards
Design Standards adopted by the planning commission and as set forth in the United States
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. Zoning Ordinance,
and Guidelines for Article 10 Section 3.25(A)
the City of Dover
Historic District Historic district design guidelines and standards: The document
Zone adopted by the City of Dover Planning Commission as being the source
reference document for construction and maintenance of buildings,
structures and additions within the Dover Historic District and which is the
guiding document for the historic district commission and city planner in
their review of applications for architectural review certification. Zoning
Ordinance, Article 12 Definitions
Architectural
Review Certificate • Process of Architectural Review Certification
shall be required for the Architectural review certificate: A signed and dated document
demolition, construction, indicating the approval of the City of Dover Planning Commission, or the
reconstruction, alteration historic district commission, or city planner upon the authority of the
or restoration of any new historic district commission, for alteration, construction, relocation, or
or existing structure or demolition within the historic district. Zoning Ordinance, Article 12 Definitions.
where general exterior
repairs are made with in An Architectural Review Certificate may be issued in one of three ways:
the Historic District. It is • As part of the Building Permit process following administrative
not required for normal review of project activities by Staff.
maintenance and repair, • By the Historic District Commission following review of an
interior arrangement, or application submission.
building features not • By the Planning Commission following consideration and
subject to public view. recommendations by the Historic District Commission’s review
of an application submission.
63
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Item 8.
The City of Dover was designated a Certified Local Government in 2015.
For Information on Historic Preservation Activities and the City of Dover Historic District
Commission, please contact Planning Staff in the Department of Planning & Inspections.
City of Dover, Delaware
Historic District Commission
Department of Planning & Inspections
Department of Planning Inspections
15 Loockerman Plaza
P.O. Box 475
Dover DE 19903
Phone: 302-736-7196 or
302-736-7010
Fax: 302-736-4217
www.cityofdover.com
Associated Topics to Learn More About:
• Architectural Review Certification process • Tax Credit Program for Historic Properties
I n f o r m a t i o n F r o m :
• National Park Service website: www.nps.gov/subjects/historicpreservation
• “Design Review in Historic Districts” by Rachel S. Cox, a publication by the National Trust
for Historic Preservation
• City of Dover Code of Ordinances, Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance
• Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone
Information Newsletter created 2006, Updated June 2019
64
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Item 8.
City of Dover Code of Ordinances
Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance
Article 3 - District Regulations
Section 21. - Historic district (H).
21.1 Purpose. The purpose of this historic district regulation is to preserve and enhance
that unique character and value of the old portion of Dover as an area of special charm and
interest. It is particularly intended that the regulations prevent, in the historic district, any
change of conditions that would be deemed to be a disfigurement or degradation of the
present unique visual and architectural qualities of the district.
21.2 [Use and bulk requirements.] In the historic district, use[s] and bulk shall be governed
by those provisions of this ordinance related to the zone designation of each property, except
those aspects of building height, bulk and setback that are subject to architectural review as
set forth in article 10, section 3 of this ordinance.
21.3 [Architectural review certificate.] An architectural review certificate shall be required for
the demolition, construction, reconstruction, alteration or restoration of any new or existing
structure or where general exterior repairs are made within the historic district, as provided in
article 10, section 3 of this ordinance.
21.4 [Amendments, supplements and repeals.] The city council shall not take any action to
amend, supplement, or repeal the historic district in accordance with article 10, section 5,
amendments, without a report by the historic district commission in accordance with article
10, section 3.3, unless the historic district commission fails to render such a report within 75
days after its regularly scheduled meeting following referral by the city council.
21.5 [[Signs.] Signs shall meet the regulations found in article 5, section 4, supplementary
sign regulations.
(Ord. of 3-24-1986; Ord. of 7-26-1993; Ord. of 2-12-2001)
Ordinance Excerpts for Historic District 11-12-2020 Page 1 of 10 65
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Item 8.
City of Dover Code of Ordinances
Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance
Article 10 – Planning Commission
Section 3. - Historic district commission and architectural review.
3.1 Historic district commission established.
3.11 Creation and purpose. There shall be a historic district commission for the
purpose of assisting the planning commission and city planner in reviewing
applications for architectural review certifications as specified in subsection 3.2; and
for making recommendations for designation of historic district zones; and for
establishing guidelines for the preservation and conservation of historic district
zones; and for advising other officials and departments in the City of Dover in matters
concerning historic preservation; and for reviewing all proposed National Register
nominations in the City of Dover; and for acting as a liaison on behalf of the City of
Dover to individuals and organizations concerned with historic preservation; and for
carrying out programs of historic preservation education in the City of Dover.
3.12 Appointment. The commission shall consist of five members nominated by the
mayor and approved by the city council, who are residents of the City of Dover and
who have demonstrated special interest, experience, or knowledge in history,
architecture, or historic preservation. Two of the members, to the extent available,
shall be professional members representing the professions of architecture, history,
archaeology, planning, historic preservation or related disciplines. At least two
members shall be residents of the district, and at least one shall represent the
business within the district.
3.13 Term. The members of the commission shall serve for three-year staggered
terms. Vacancies shall be filled within 60 days in accordance with subsection 3.12.
3.14 Organization. The commission shall meet at least four times per year in a
place that is advertised in advance and open to the public and shall keep minutes of
its meetings that are available to the public. All review decisions shall be made in
public. The commission shall establish bylaws for its general procedure, which shall
include a section addressing conflicts of interest. The commission shall produce an
annual report of its activity that is kept on file for public review with the city planning
office.
3.2 Architectural review certification.
3.21 Effect of architectural review certificate. No building permit or certificate of
occupancy may be issued for any structure in the historic district until an architectural
review certificate is issued as required under article 3, section 21, subsection 21.3 for
the historic district.
3.22 Architectural review certification by the city planner.
(A) An architectural review certificate for specific classes of building permits,
including fences, signs, siding, window and door replacement, roofing, the
addition or replacement of decorative features, minor demolition, residential
additions, and other construction of a minor nature, may be issued by the city
planner, after a review and determination that the proposed construction is in
general accordance with the standards set forth in subsection 3.25.
Ordinance Excerpts for Historic District 11-12-2020 Page 2 of 10 66
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Item 8.
(B) The city planner may refer any permit application for demolition or
construction in the historic district for consultation with commission.
(C) All decisions of the city planner pursuant to this subsection shall be
documented on the building permit. When the city planner grants a
conditional approval under this section, all conditions of approval shall be set
forth in writing on the building permit. In the event of a denial, the reasons for
such denial shall be documented in a written notice of decision which shall
identify all elements of the application found to be contrary to the provisions
or intent of this section.
(D) An applicant may appeal the decision of the city planner to the historic
district commission and such appeal shall be considered as an architectural
review certification application to the historic district commission and shall
meet all of the requirements set forth in subsection 3.23.
3.23 Architectural review certification by the historic district commission.
(A) The historic district commission shall issue architectural review
certificates for the construction or demolition of single-family and two-family
homes, and nonresidential structures or additions involving a gross floor area
of 3,000 square feet or less, after review of the proposed construction and
after a determination that the construction is in general accordance with the
standards set forth in subsection 3.25 below.
(B) All applications to the historic district commission for architectural review
certification shall be subject to the procedures set forth in subsection 3.26.
(C) All decisions of the historic district commission pursuant to this
subsection shall be formalized in a written notice of decision. When the
commission grants a conditional approval under this subsection, all
conditions of approval shall be set forth in writing in the notice of decision. In
the event of a denial, the notice of decision shall state the reasons for denial
and shall identify all elements of the application found to be contrary to the
provisions or intent of this subsection.
(D) An applicant may appeal the decision of the historic district commission
to the planning commission, and such appeal shall be considered as an
architectural review certification application to the planning commission and
shall meet all of the requirements set forth in subsection 3.24 and subsection
3.26.
3.24 Architectural review certification by the planning commission.
(A) The planning commission shall issue architectural review certificates
referred or appealed to it, upon review of the recommendations of the historic
district commission and upon a determination that the proposed construction
is in accordance with the standards set forth in subsection 3.25.
(B) All applications to the planning commission for architectural review
certification shall be subject to the procedures set forth in subsection 3.26.
(C) All decisions of the planning commission pursuant to this subsection
shall be formalized in a written notice of decision. When the planning
commission grants a conditional approval under this subsection, all
conditions of approval shall be set forth in writing in the notice of decision. In
the event of a denial, the notice of decision shall state the reasons for denial
Ordinance Excerpts for Historic District 11-12-2020 Page 3 of 10 67
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Item 8.
and shall identify all elements of the application found to be contrary to the
provisions or intent of this subsection.
3.25 Architectural review standards.
(A) An architectural review certificate may be issued if it is found that the
architectural style, general design, height, bulk and setbacks, arrangement,
location and materials and structures affecting the exterior appearance are
generally in harmony with neighboring structures and complementary to the
traditional architectural standards of the historic district as set forth in the
historic district design guidelines and standards adopted by the planning
commission and as set forth in the United States Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation.
(B) The city planner, historic district commission or planning commission
shall not consider normal maintenance and repair (see Definitions, article
12), interior arrangement, or building features not subject to public view.
3.26 Procedures for an architectural review by the historic district commission
and/or planning commission.
(A) Architectural preapplication meeting. Prior to action on any application
for an architectural review certificate, the applicant shall meet in person with
the city planner or his delegated representative. The purpose of such
conference shall be to discuss the proposed construction or other action
requiring the certificate in order to determine what information is useful in the
determination of conformity with the provisions and intent of the historic
district regulation as expressed in this article.
(B) Application and fee. The application to the historic district commission for
an architectural review certificate and related information shall be submitted
to the city planner at least 30 days prior to the historic district commission
meeting at which review is requested and shall be accompanied by a fee as
provided for in Appendix F—Fees and Fines.
(C) Public hearing. Prior to the review and action on an architectural review
certification, the historic district commission shall hold a public hearing
subject to the following public notification procedures:
(1) The applicant shall advertise the public hearing newspaper of
general circulation at least 15 days prior thereto.
(2) The applicant shall notify, by mail, all property owners within 200
feet of the extreme limits of the subject property as their names
appear on the municipal tax record at least 15 days prior thereto.
(3) The applicant shall post a notice outlining the date, time, place,
and nature of the hearing in a conspicuous location on the
property. Such notice shall be designed in accordance with
standards set forth by the planning commission.
(4) The applicant shall provide the planning office with a copy of the
notice, verification of newspaper publication, a date-stamped photo of
the property posting, and post office mail receipts indicating date of
mailing for all letters on or before the meeting date.
(5) Said notices shall state the date, time, and place of the hearings
before the historic district commission, a brief description of the
Ordinance Excerpts for Historic District 11-12-2020 Page 4 of 10 68
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Item 8.
project and shall state that a copy of the application and plan is on file
with the planning office for public review.
(6) If the planning commission is reviewing a project in accordance
with other sections of this article, then the public hearing notice on
those applications must also give notice of architectural review
certification.
(D) Application information. The applicant shall provide such information and
documents listed below which will satisfactorily illustrate the proposed action
as indicated in the architectural preapplication meeting required in subsection
3.26(A):
(1) All plan elements required in subsection 2.5.
(2) Plans and specifications indicating existing and proposed
development, including structures, architectural elevation
drawings, trees and any other landscaping, existing and
proposed, including the general design, location and orientation
of structures in relation to curb line, right-of-way line and
neighboring buildings, colors, and materials to be used on
exterior surfaces, detailed plans for any signs, photographs of the
existing site and neighboring buildings, and such other
information as will enable the historic district commission or
planning commission to determine conformity with the ordinance.
(E) City planner report. For each application to the planning commission the
city planner shall issue a report to the planning commission including
comments from other agencies detailing how the application conforms to the
requirements of the zoning ordinance and other provision of city and state
codes. This report shall not be deemed to represent a comprehensive list of
all city and state code requirements. The city planner shall transmit copies of
the proposed site development plan and the city planner's report at least
seven days prior to the date of the meeting at which approval of the site
development plan is to be requested.
(F) Historic district commission action. The historic district commission shall
act to review and render a recommendation to approve any such application
within 45 days of transmittal to the commission or within such additional time
as may be consented to by the applicant. The recommendation of the historic
district commission shall be forwarded to the planning commission and acted
upon by the planning commission in conjunction with action on the
associated site development plan. If a site development plan application is
not filed in accordance with the provisions of subsection 2.4 of this article
within one year of recommendation, the recommendation shall expire. The
historic district commission may grant a one-year extension of its
recommendation upon written request by the applicant. Such request shall be
made in writing to the planning office at least thirty days prior to the expiration
of the historic district commission's recommendation.
(G) Substantial amendments. Substantial amendments to an application or
an architectural review certificate shall be acted upon in the same manner as
the original plan.
(H) Expiration of architectural review certification issued by the historic
district commission.
Ordinance Excerpts for Historic District 11-12-2020 Page 5 of 10 69
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Item 8.
(1) Architectural review certification approval shall expire on the last
day of the 12th month after the date of approval if construction of
the work authorized or use permitted has not started or unless an
extension of time is applied for by the applicant and granted by
the historic district commission. Approval shall also expire if the
construction of work authorized has stopped for a period of one
year unless an extension of time is applied for and granted by the
historic district commission.
(2) Request for extension of approval shall be made no later than 30
days prior to the final approval expiration date. Upon receipt of
such request, the matter shall be considered at the next regularly
scheduled meeting of the historic district commission.
(3) In considering a request for an extension of approval, the historic
district commission shall consider, but not be limited to, the
following:
(a) Whether the project has been delayed for reasons
beyond the control of the applicant, excluding economic
or financial reasons.
(b) Whether the applicant has made substantial progress
toward obtaining final approvals.
(c) Whether there have been any significant changes in the
surrounding neighborhood.
(d) Whether there has been any related amendments to the
zoning map or text, or the comprehensive plan, or if any
waivers or variances have been granted.
(4) Requests for extensions shall be submitted in writing to the
planning office.
(5) Under no circumstances shall the historic district commission
grant extensions beyond 24 months from the date of first
approval.
3.3 Historic district amendments.
3.31 Historic district commission review required. Any motion or petition to amend,
supplement, or repeal a historic district by the city council in accordance with section
5, Amendments, shall require a report by the historic district commission as set forth
in article 3, subsection 21.4.
3.32 Review criteria for placing individual structures in a historic district. The historic
district commission may recommend that an individual structure or property be
placed in an existing contiguous historic district or be placed in a historic district
specifically created for the property or structure upon considering the following
criteria and factors:
(A) Significant value as part of the historical, cultural, artistic, social, ethnic or
other heritage of the nation, state or community;
(B) Association with an important person or event in national, state, or local
history.
(C) Representative of the distinguishing characteristics of an architectural
type inherently valuable for the study of a period, style, craftsmanship,
method of construction or use of indigenous material;
Ordinance Excerpts for Historic District 11-12-2020 Page 6 of 10 70
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Item 8.
(D) Notable work of a master builder, designer, architect, or artist whose
individual genius has influenced an era;
(E) The desire of the owner to have the property designated;
(F) Increased potential of economic or community development.
3.33 Review criteria for amendments or creation of new historic districts. The
historic district commission may recommend amendments to an existing historic
district, recommend repeal of an existing historic district or recommend the creation
of a new historic district upon considering the following criteria:
(A) Any criteria listed in subsection 3.32.
(B) Distinctive character or homogeneity of architectural design or dates of
construction throughout the area.
(C) Identifiable by clear and distinctive boundaries.
(D) Repetition of distinguishing architectural or land use characteristics
throughout the area.
3.34 Public hearing required. For all proposed amendments to the boundary of the
historic district, the historic district commission shall hold a public hearing subject to
the following public notification procedures:
(A) The planning office shall advertise the public hearing in a newspaper of
general circulation at least 15 days prior thereto.
(B) The planning office shall notify, by mail, all directly affected property
owners and all property owners within 200 feet of the extreme limits of
the properties proposed for addition to or removal from the district as
their names appear on the municipal tax record at least 15 days prior
thereto.
3.4 Demolition by neglect.
3.41 Responsibility of property owners. Property owners of properties within the
historic districts shall not allow their buildings to be demolished by neglect (see
Definitions, article 12) by failing to provide ordinary maintenance or repair.
3.42 Responsibility of the historic district commission. The historic district
commission shall monitor the condition of historic properties and existing buildings in
the historic district to determine if they are being demolished by neglect by failing to
provide ordinary maintenance and repair (see Definitions, article 12). In the event
that the commission determines a demolition by neglect is occurring, it shall carry out
the following:
(A) Determine and set forth steps required to remedy the situations or
defects.
(B) Direct the city planner to inform the property owners of its findings,
determination, and recommended remedies.
(C) In the event that the property owners fail to commence work within the
reasonable time allotted by the commission, the commission may direct
the building inspector to begin proceedings under chapter 22, buildings,
and building regulations, article XI, dangerous buildings, of the Code of
Ordinances for the City of Dover to bring about the repair or demolition of
the building.
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3.43 Responsibility of the city planner. The city planner shall notify the historic
district commission of buildings within the historic district that have been referred to
him by the building inspector that meet the definition of dangerous buildings under
the provisions of chapter 22 Buildings and Building Regulations, article XI Dangerous
Buildings, of the Code of Ordinances for the City of Dover. In such cases the
commission shall determine if the building is being demolished by neglect. Before
referring a property to the commission for consideration as demolition by neglect, the
city planner shall give written notice to the owner, occupant, mortgagee, lessee,
agent, and all other persons having an interest in said building, as shown by the
records of the recorder of deeds of the county, to appear before historic district
commission at the time, date and location specified.
(Ord. No. 2011-14, 8-8-2011)
Section 4. - Development information requirements.
4.1 In order to more effectively evaluate the probable impact of proposed development and
thereby to carry out the purposes of this ordinance when making decisions and recommendations
regarding development proposals, the planning commission, historic district commission, or city
planner may adopt a standard set of information requirements, which may be updated from time to
time as necessary.
4.2 The information requirements shall be administered by the city planner and shall be a
part of submission requirements for all applications to the planning commission.
(Ord. No. 2011-14, 8-8-2011)
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City of Dover Code of Ordinances
Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance
Excerpt of Definitions associated with Historic District activities.
Article 12 - Definitions
Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following terms shall, for the purpose of this
ordinance, have the following meanings. Words used in the present tense include the future.
The singular includes the plural and the plural includes the singular. The word "person"
includes a corporation, association or partnership, as well as an individual. The word "lot"
includes the word "plot." The term "occupied" or "used," as applied to any building, shall be
construed as though followed by the words "or intended, arranged or designed to be
occupied or used":
Accessory building: A building or use clearly incidental or subordinate to, and
customar[il]y in connection with, the principal building or use on the same lot.
Applicant: A landowner or developer, as hereinafter defined, who has filed
application for development, including his heirs, successors and assigns.
Architectural review certificate: A signed and dated document indicating the approval
of the City of Dover Planning Commission, or the historic district commission, or city planner
upon the authority of the historic district commission, for alteration, construction, relocation,
or demolition within the historic district.
Building: Any combination of materials forming a construction. The term "building" is
not intended to include underground construction which permits the use of the ground above
as if no construction existed. The term "building" shall include the term "structure," as well as
the following:
(a) Signs;
(b) Fences;
(c) Walls, except retaining walls projecting above the ground not more than three
feet at the higher ground level and not more than 6½ feet at the lower ground
level;
(d) Radio and television antennae, except for such antennae installed on the roof of
a building and extending not more than 15 feet above the highest level of the roof
of such building; and
(e) Porches, carports, bins and other similar structures;
(f) All areas used for outdoor display and storage of products for sale on the site for
more than 14 consecutive days or 21 days in a calendar year. Excluded from this
definition are approved motor vehicle, boat and trailer sales establishments;
contractors' yards; nurseries and landscaping material sales (where the sale of
these materials is the primary use on the lot); wholesale building supply stores
and lumber yards; or similar uses.
Demolition by neglect: Improper maintenance or lack of maintenance of a building,
structure or object which results in substantial and widespread deterioration of the building,
structure or object which threatens the likelihood of preservation and which presents a threat
to the public safety, health and welfare of the immediate community.
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Historic district: The geographic areas of Dover that have been designated by the
City of Dover, and graphically illustrated on the official zone map of the City of Dover, as
possessing a significant concentration of properties, buildings, structures or objects
associated with and representative of the historical development of Dover and which meet at
least one of the following criteria:
(a) Exemplifies or reflects the broad cultural, political, economic, or social history of
Dover, Kent County, the State of Delaware, or the United States of America; or
(b) Is associated with the lives of persons of historic importance or with events of
historic significance to Dover, Kent County, the State of Delaware, or the United
States of America; or
(c) Embodies distinguishing architectural characteristics which are invaluable
resources for the study, understanding and appreciation of periods, styles,
society, methods of construction, craftsmanship and the use of indigenous
materials; or
(d) Represents the notable work of master builders, designers or architects whose
designs, construction and craftsmanship have been recognized as distinctive and
whose work has influenced the period of time in which they lived.
Historic district design guidelines and standards: The document adopted by the City
of Dover Planning Commission as being the source reference document for construction and
maintenance of buildings, structures and additions within the Dover Historic District and
which is the guiding document for the historic district commission and city planner in their
review of applications for architectural review certification.
National Register of Historic Places: A federal list of cultural resources worthy of
preservation, authorized under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 as part of a
national program to coordinate and support public efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect
the nation's historic and archaeological resources. The national register program is
administered by the state historic preservation office and by the National Park Service under
the department of the interior.
Ordinary maintenance and repair: Work performed to prevent deterioration of a
building, structure or object, or any part thereof, by restoring the building, structure or object
as nearly as practical to its original condition prior to such deterioration or damage by using
replacement materials and applications, wherever possible, of the kind used in original
construction.
Public view: That which can be seen readily from a public street, public building or
public property, excluding views from alley rights-of-way.
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Item 8.
City of Dover Code of Ordinances
Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance
Article 10 – Planning Commission
Section 5. - Amendments.
This article or any part thereof may be amended, supplemented or repealed, from time to time, by
the city council on its own motion or upon application, as provided in chapter 3 of title 22,
Municipalities of the Delaware Code Annotated (22 Del. C. § 301 et seq.). Every such proposed
amendment shall be referred by the city council to the planning commission for a report before the
public hearing. The city council shall not take action on any such amendment without a report from
the planning commission unless the planning commission fails to render such a report within 75
days after its regularly scheduled meeting following such referral.
5.1 Types of amendments to the ordinance. The following are the types of amendments
that may be made to the ordinance:
5.11 Zoning text amendments. Amendments to ordinance text may be made upon
initiation of the city planner or under sponsorship of three members of city
council.
5.12 Map amendment by application. A property owner may make application to
the city for amendment of the zoning map as it relates to his property.
Amendments to the zoning map may also be initiated by sponsorship of three
members of city council and shall be considered under the procedures of
subsection 5.3 as it relates to applications for map amendments.
5.13 Comprehensive zoning map amendment. Amendment to the zoning map as a
result of a new, revised, or amended comprehensive plan, or other formal
plan or study shall be considered as a comprehensive zoning map
amendment and shall be initiated by the planning office.
5.2 Procedure for zoning text amendments in accordance with subsection 5.11.
5.21 Public hearing and notice. An amendment to the ordinance text shall be
subject to public hearing before the planning commission and city council
prior to adoption. Such hearing shall be advertised in a newspaper of general
circulation at least 15 days prior to the planning commission hearing. Such
notices shall state the date, time and place of the planning commission and
city council hearings and a brief description of the proposed zoning text
amendment, and specify that documents are available in the planning office
for review.
5.22 City planner report. For each proposed zoning text amendment, the city
planner shall issue a report to the planning commission and city council,
including comments from other reviewing agencies, that evaluates the
following factors:
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(A) Whether such change is consistent with the aims and principles
embodied in the ordinance as to the particular zones concerned; and
(B)Whether such proposed amendment is consistent with the aims of the
comprehensive plan of the city.
5.23 Report of the planning commission. Regarding each proposed amendment to
the ordinance text, the planning commission shall provide a report to the city
council stating a recommended action with regards to the proposed
amendment, along with the commission's evaluation of the following factors:
(A)Whether such change is consistent with the aims and principles embodied
in the ordinance as to the particular zones concerned; and
(B)Whether such proposed amendment is consistent with the aims of the
comprehensive plan of the city.
5.3 Application procedure for zoning map amendments in accordance with subsection
5.12.
5.31 Preapplication meeting. Prior to the submission of a zoning map amendment
application, the applicant or his representative shall meet in person with the
city planner or his designee to discuss the rezoning request. The purpose of
this meeting shall be to discuss proposed uses or developments and to
review the process and submission requirements.
5.32 Application. Application for a zoning map amendment shall be submitted to
the city planner, on forms approved by the planning commission, along with a
fee as provided for in Appendix F—Fees and Fines, and copies of a site map
as described below.
(A) Submission requirements accompanying applications for amendments to
the zoning map. The applicant shall cause a site map to be prepared by a
civil engineer, surveyor, land planner, or architect. The applicant shall submit
copies of the site map to the city planner. The elements to be included on the
site map are listed below:
(1) Scale and dimensions. The map shall be at least 8.5 by 11 inches and
at a scale of ten, 20, 30 or 40 feet to the inch, except that if the property
has a maximum dimension over 900 feet, a scale of 50 feet to the inch
may be used.
(2) Legal data.
(a) Tax parcel identification number.
(b) Name and address of the owner of record.
(c) Name and address of the equitable owner, if any.
(d) Name and address of the person, firm or organization preparing
the map.
(e) Date, north point and written and graphic scale.
(f) Sufficient description of information to precisely define the
boundaries of the property and that portion of the property for
which a rezoning is requested; and total acreage for which a
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rezoning is requested. All distances shall be in feet and
hundredths of a foot. All angles shall be given to the nearest
second or closer. The error of closure shall not exceed one in
10,000.
(g) The locations, names and existing widths of adjacent street rights-
of-way and curblines.
(h) Location, width and purpose of all existing and proposed
easements, reservations and areas dedicated to public use within
or adjoining the property.
(i) Existing and proposed zoning.
(j) Any existing development on the property, including buildings,
fences and landscape screening.
(k) Full and complete information requested by the city planner in
accordance with the development information requirements set
forth in section 4.
5.33 Setting of hearings and referral to planning commission. For any application
to amend the zoning map, city council shall refer the proposed amendment to
the planning commission and set dates for the public hearings to be held
before the planning commission and city council.
5.34 Advertisement of public hearing. Following referral of a zoning map
amendment application to planning commission by city council, the applicant
shall advertise the public hearing as follows:
(A) The applicant shall notify by mail all property owners within a distance of
200 feet of the extreme limits of the subject property of the public hearing
dates, times and locations.
(B) The applicant shall advertise the public hearings in a newspaper of
general circulation at least fifteen (15) days prior to the planning
commission hearing. Such notices shall state the date, time and place of
the planning commission and city council hearings and a brief description
of the proposed zoning map amendment, and specify that documents are
available in the planning office for review.
(C) The applicant shall also post a notice outlining the date, time, place, and
nature of the hearings in a conspicuous location on the property. Such
notice shall be designed in accordance with standards set forth by the
planning commission and city council.
(D) The applicant shall provide the planning office with a copy of the notice,
verification of newspaper publication, a date-stamped photo of the
property posting, and post office mail receipts indicating the date of
mailing for all letters on or before the planning commission meeting date.
5.35 City planner report. For each application for a zoning map amendment, the
city planner shall transmit a report to the planning commission and city
council, including comments from other reviewing agencies that evaluate the
following factors:
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(A) Whether the uses permitted by the proposed change would be compatible
with the existing uses and zones in the area concerned;
(B) Whether adequate public services and infrastructure exist or can be
created or expanded to serve the needs of any additional demand as a
result of such change; and
(C) Whether the proposed change is in accordance with the city's current
comprehensive plan.
5.36 Report of the planning commission. Regarding each application for a zoning
map amendment, the planning commission shall provide a report to the city
council stating a recommended action with regards to the proposed
amendment, along with the commission's evaluation of the following factors:
(A) Whether the uses permitted by the proposed change would be compatible
with the existing uses and zones in the area concerned;
(B) Whether adequate public services and infrastructure exist or can be
created or expanded to serve the needs of any additional demand as a
result of such change; and
(C) Whether the proposed change is in accordance with the city's current
comprehensive plan.
5.37 Amendment of zoning map. Following action by city council with regards to an
application to amend the zoning map, the planning office shall update the
zoning map to reflect the action of city council.
5.38 Notice of decision. The city clerk shall send the applicant a letter notifying the
applicant of the city council's action regarding the application for a zoning
map amendment.
5.4 Procedure for comprehensive zoning map amendment in accordance with subsection
5.13.
5.41 Public hearing and notice. A comprehensive zoning map amendment shall be
subject to public hearing before the planning commission and city council
prior to adoption. The planning office shall advertise the public hearings as
follows:
(A) The planning office shall advertise the public hearing in two newspapers
of general circulation at least 15 days prior to the planning commission
hearing.
(B) The planning office shall notify all affected property owners by mail at
least 15 days prior to the planning commission hearing, informing them
of the proposed zoning map amendment as it relates to their property.
(C) Such notices shall state the date, time and place of the planning
commission and city council hearings and a brief description of the
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Item 8.
proposed zoning map amendment, and specify that documents are
available in the planning office for review.
5.42 City planner report. For any comprehensive zoning map amendment, the city
planner shall issue a report to the planning commission and city council,
including comments from other reviewing agencies, that identifies:
(A) The reasons for the comprehensive zoning map amendment;
(B) All properties where a change in zone is proposed; and
(C) How the proposed changes to the zoning map support the city's current
comprehensive plan.
5.43 Report of the planning commission. Regarding each application for a
comprehensive zoning map amendment, the planning commission shall
provide a report to the city council stating a recommended action with regards
to the proposed amendment, along with the commission's evaluation of the
following factors:
(A) Whether the uses permitted by the proposed change would be compatible
with the existing uses and zones in the area concerned;
(B) Whether adequate public services and infrastructure exist or can be
created or expanded to serve the needs of any additional demand as a
result of such change; and
(C) Whether the proposed change is in accordance with the city's current
comprehensive plan.
5.44 Adoption of comprehensive zoning map amendment. Upon adoption of the
comprehensive zoning map amendment by city council, the zoning of
properties shall be as reflected in the adopted map.
5.45 Notice of decision. The city shall notify all affected property owners in writing
with regards to any amendments to the zoning map that affect their
properties.
5.5 Amendment protests. In the case of a protest against any amendment, such
amendment shall not become effective, except in accordance with the provisions of
section 305 of chapter 3 of title 22, Municipalities, of the Delaware Code Annotated (22
Del. C. § 305).
5.6 Zoning map amendment approvals. In all cases where the city council shall approve
an amendment to the zoning map, the said council shall find that, for reasons fully set
forth in the said findings, such amendment is in conformity with the comprehensive
plan for the city.
5.61 Reconsideration, one-year limitation.
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Item 8.
(A) Whenever an amendment has been denied by the city council, such
amendment, or one substantially similar, shall not be reconsidered sooner
than one year from the date of the prior denial, except as provided in
subsection (B) hereof.
(B) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (A) hereof, the planning
commission may request the council to reconsider an application within
the one-year period from the denial of the same if the land use in the area
has changed to such a degree that failure to do so would prevent proper
planning and development of the area in question.
5.7 Closed zones. Where the city finds that new development in a certain zone would be
inconsistent with the purposes of this article, but that elimination of or substantial
changes to the zone would create a hardship for many owners of existing buildings and
land in that zone, the city may declare the zone closed. The city council shall not
accept or approve amendments to the zoning map which would place land in a closed
zone. Closed zones include:
(A) R-7;
(B) RG-4;
(C) RG-O, except in the downtown redevelopment target area as described in
appendix C of the City of Dover Code of Ordinances.
(Ord. No. 2011-14, 8-8-2011)
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Item 10.
Project Narrative FFY2019
Addendum to Design Standards & Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone: Modern
Materials & Technologies
The City of Dover is proposing a preservation planning project to evaluate and update portions of the
Design Standards & Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone document. The result of
the project will be a Draft Addendum document focusing on modern and technological advancements
in materials and construction activities of items discussed in the Design Standards & Guidelines.
The current Design Standards & Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone document
was created1 and adopted in 1992-1993 with the formal establishment of the City’s Historic District
Commission (HDC) by ordinance adopted July 26, 1993. The ordinances of the City of Dover allow
for the designation and protection of historic properties. The purpose of Historic District regulations
is:
“to preserve and enhance that unique character and value of the old portion of Dover as an area of
special charm and interest. It is particularly intended that the regulations prevent, in the historic district,
any change of conditions that would be deemed to be a disfigurement or degradation of the present
unique visual and architectural qualities of the district.” (Zoning Ordinance, Article 3, Section 21)
The geographic boundaries of the Historic District (H) zone are established as a zoning
classification. The original boundaries of the Historic District established in 1961 were generally
described as extending from just north of Division Street south to South Street inclusive of the
properties fronting on South State Street and The Green then east to the St. Jones River. In 1997, the
boundaries of the Historic District Zone were expanded to include properties fronting on West
Loockerman Street from Bradford Street to the railroad corridor and areas in the vicinity of South
Governors Avenue, South Bradford Street, North Street, and Bank Lane. The areas of expansion
included many commercial and residential properties listed in the National Register of Historic
Places as part of the Victorian Dover Historic District. See attached Map of City of Dover Historic
District showing the current boundaries (shaded in orange).
As a preservation and redevelopment tool, the Design Standards and Guidelines provide guidance
for property owners, design professionals, staff and the Historic District Commission (and Planning
Commission). The “historic district design guidelines and standards” are defined by the Zoning
Ordinance as follows:
“Historic district design guidelines and standards: The document adopted by the City of Dover
Planning Commission as being the source reference document for construction and maintenance of
buildings, structures, and additions with the Dover Historic District and which is the guiding document
for the historic district commission and city planner in their review of applications for architectural
review certification.”
Therefore, it is utilized as a guiding document in the decision making process of reviewing of
construction activities in the Historic District zone for issuance of Architectural Review
Certification (Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3). Applications for Architectural Review
Certification are reviewed by the City Planner (Staff), the Historic District Commission, and
Planning Commission. See the following code excerpt regarding the architectural review standards.
1
The current document Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone was prepared in
1992 by John Milner Associates Inc. with funding by a grant from the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the
Interior and administered by the State Historic Preservation Office. City Planning Staff, the State Historic Preservation
Office, the Friends of Old Dover, Main Street Dover, and other interested parties participated in the development of
the document. 81
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Item 10.
Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.25 Architectural review standards.
(A) An architectural review certificate may be issued if it is found that the architectural style,
general design, height, bulk and setbacks, arrangement, location and materials and
structures affecting the exterior appearance are generally in harmony with neighboring
structures and complementary to the traditional architectural standards of the historic
district as set forth in the historic district design guidelines and standards adopted by the
planning commission and as set forth in the United States Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation.
(B) The city planner, historic district commission or planning commission shall not consider
normal maintenance and repair (see definitions, article 12), interior arrangement, or
building features not subject to public view.
The Zoning Ordinance references the Design Standards & Guidelines when establishing the
Architectural Review Certification process for the City of Dover’s Historic District zone (H). An
Architectural Review Certificate is required for a demolition, erection, reconstruction, alternation,
restoration or exterior repairs on properties within the Historic District. Most projects within the
Historic District are eligible for administrative review of the Architectural Review Certificate as
part of the Building Permit process for such projects as signs, roof and door or window
replacement, and exterior finish/siding/trim work renovations. Project activities only involving
interior renovations are not subject to the Architectural Review Certification process. For example,
in calendar year 2018, a total of forty-seven (47) applications (permit activity in the Historic
District) were reviewed under this process with 38 Permits requiring Architectural Review
Certification and 9 Permits not requiring Architectural Review Certification. 2
Historic Preservation Planning is part of a comprehensive approach to land use planning in the City
of Dover. In Dover’s current plan, the 2008 Comprehensive Plan (as amended) this information is
presented in Chapter 6 - Historic Preservation and associated Map 6-1. The 2008 Comprehensive
Plan includes sets forth goals and a series of recommendations for each goal. The Historic
Preservation Goals are as follows:
Goal 1: Preserve and Protect Historic Resources
Historic Goal 2: Provide and Promote Incentives for Preservation Activities
Preservation Goal 3: Increase Public Information on Historic Resources
Goal 4: Collaborate with Diverse Groups and Governments
2008 Comprehensive Plan, excerpt from Table 1-1: Plan Chapter Goals
To achieve Goal 1, one of the adopted Recommendations was the Evaluation of Design Standards
and Guidelines since the original document was adopted in the early 90s. The recommendation also
suggested consideration of the standards and guidelines for the levels of protection for The Green
and the Loockerman Street areas.
For this project for an Addendum to the Design Standards & Guidelines, the City of Dover will
seek to hire a consultant through a Request for Professional Services process to assist the Historic
District Commission and Planning Staff with the project. The consultant will be required to have a
Principal Investigator (PI) who meets the professional qualification standards in 36 CFR 61. Also
involved in the project, the Historic District Commission consists of five (5) appointed members
and the Planning Commission3 consists of nine (9) appointed members. The Planning Staff serves
as staff support to the Historic District Commission and will manage the activities of this project.
2
The volume of Permit Activity in the Historic District over the past five years has averaged 52 applications a year with
a majority of them eligible for Architectural Review Certification review by Staff.
3
The Planning Commission, per the Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.25(A), is involved in the formal adoption
process for the Historic District guidelines. 82
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Item 10.
With the project, we hope to create an Addendum to the Design Standards & Guidelines that
focuses on the modern and technological advancements in materials and construction activities. In
recent years, the use and role of alternative and composite materials in construction has increased
with options for wood composites, PVC/vinyl products, and others. In addition, features like solar
panels and other conservation related measures have become more common place. This Addendum
will focus on these types of materials and items as associated with the practices for maintenance,
preservation and construction activities within the Historic District. Components of the Addendum
document will continue to provide guidelines for treatment of historic properties and features
focusing on maintenance, repair, alternations, and preservation or restoration of existing buildings;
guidelines for new construction activities (additions and new buildings), guidelines for demolition
activities; guidelines for landscaping and site elements, and guidelines for signage. The document is
to be consistent with the Secretary of Interior Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties
(Rehabilitation Standards and Guidelines).
The project will consist of a series of phases: Planning, Public Outreach, Guidelines Revision and
Refinement, and Preparation of Draft Addendum Document. The following chart outlines the
anticipated activities of the project.
Timeframe Project Phase Activities and Products
September 2019 Consultant Services Develop RFP and release.
Select Consultant
September – October 2019
ed Planning Meetings with Consultant,
vis Staff and HDC to outline
Re general project approach,
be goals and format for
Addendum guidelines,
to determine public input
ule strategy.
November 2019 – January Public Outreach Analysis of guidelines.
2020
ed Conduct focus
ch groups/stakeholder meetings
eS and a Public Workshop.
January 2020 – April 2020
am Guidelines Revision & Prepare example page format
Refinement (text and photographs).
Tim Meetings with Staff and HDC
efr to present drafts. Review of
multiple Drafts by Staff, HDC.
May 2020 – June 2020 Preparation of Draft Conduct Public Workshop on
Addendum Document Draft. Review of Draft by
State Historic Preservation
Office.
The specific scope of work, tasks, and deliverables by the consultant will be further refined with
Planning Staff. Electronic copies of documents are anticipated for use at meetings and posting on
the City’s website for review. Subject to the selection of the consultant, the Project’s work
timeframe is expected to be September 2019 through June 2020 with the formal review process to
adopt the Draft Addendum Document to follow in Summer 2020 with the Historic District
Commission and Planning Commission.
83
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Item 11.
Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs
State Historic Preservation Office
21 The Green, Dover, DE 19901
(302)736-7400 ● (302)739-5660 (fax)
HISTORIC PRESERVATION FUND GRANT APPLICATION GUIDELINES
FOR CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
Allocation of Grant Funds in Delaware………………………………………………………page 1
General Grant Requirements.…………………………..……………………………………..page 2
Eligible Grant Activities………………………………………………………………………….page 3
Allowable Costs……………………………………………………………………………………page 6
Grant Application Packet Instructions and Forms…………………………………….....page 7
ALLOCATION OF GRANT FUNDS IN DELAWARE
Each year, the Congress appropriates a federal Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) grant to each state in support of
various preservation activities allowable under the regulations implementing the National Historic Preservation Act
of 1966, as amended. In Delaware, this grant is administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs,
whose Director acts as the State Historic Preservation Officer. One of the requirements of this federal grant is that a
minimum of 10% of the funds must be sub-granted to Certified Local Governments (CLGs). Because the federal
grant award to Delaware varies from year to year, the amount awarded to Delaware’s CLGs also varies.
Only local governments which have been formally certified as a CLG prior to January 1 of the calendar year and
which continue to meet the requirements for certification are eligible to apply for HPF subgrant funding. Among
the requirements for maintaining CLG status is the submission of an annual report on activities. The State Historic
Preservation Office (SHPO)’s CLG Coordinator contacts the CLGs each year to request this report. If not
requested or received beforehand, the SHPO may require that the annual activity report be submitted and approved
as a condition of awarding a subgrant to the CLG.
Each CLG that meets the above requirements and submits an application that is consistent with these Grant
Application Guidelines will receive grant funding. Delaware’s CLG allocation formula provides for a minimum
allocation of $2,000 to each CLG plus an additional allocation based on population (US Census Bureau decennial
figures) to make up a yearly Basic Program Allocation (BPA).
Funding Category Equivalent Population Minimum Allocation Population Factor BPA
1 Less than 3,500 $2,000 + $1,000 = $3,000
2 3,500 – 10,000 $2,000 + $2,000 = $4,000
3 10,000 – 40,000 $2,000 + $3,000 = $5,000
4 Over 40,000 $2,000 + $5,000 = $7,000
Because the HPF grant 10% set-aside that the Delaware SHPO is required to award to CLGs typically exceeds the
amount of the BPA, the CLGs have been placed in Funding Categories in accordance with their 2010 census
populations and are assigned points equivalent to that Funding Category. The points derived are used to calculate
the additional grant funds that CLGs will be awarded. The total number of points is divided into the difference
between 10% of that year’s HPF grant and the total dollars that are assigned in accordance with the BPA allocation.
A total award is then calculated using this formula times the number of points assigned plus their PBA.
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Certified Local Governments 2010 Population Funding Category/Points BPA
City of Delaware City 1,695 1 $3,000
City of Lewes 2,747 1 $3,000
Town of Milton 2,576 1 $3,000
City of New Castle 5,285 2 $4,000
City of Dover 37,366 3 $5,000
City of Wilmington 70,851 4 $7,000
New Castle County 538,479 4 $7,000
Totals 16 $32,000
Each year that Delaware receives an HPF grant award, the SHPO evaluates each Delaware’s CLGs eligibility to
receive grant funding. The SHPO notifies each CLG of the amount of the federal funds which the SHPO has
determined to award (based on the above formula), and the date on which application for that year is due. If any
CLG is not in compliance with Delaware’s CLG Program Guidelines at that time, they must take corrective action
to change their eligibility status prior to the date on which the application is due.
The federal award indicated in the CLGs notification cannot exceed 60% of the project total budget. The CLG must
provide match, either in cash or in kind, which equals at least 40% of the project budget. A CLG may partner with
another entity which is willing to provide all or part of the non-federal (matching) funds for a project. If the project
will be administered by a third party (e.g., an educational institution), the application should clearly state that the
CLG is delegating administration of the grant to that third party. In addition, two or more CLGs may collaborate
and pool their awards to allow for a greater project budget to accomplish common goals, such as training for
commissioners.
If, for whatever reason, a CLG chooses not to apply for their allotted federal funds or applies for less than the
amount allotted, the SHPO will determine how to equitably distribute these monies to those CLGs whose grant
application shows there is need for additional grant monies and who have the ability to provide the increased
matching funds.
GENERAL GRANT REQUIREMENTS
Each CLG must fulfill certain programmatic and administrative requirements in order to obtain a grant award.
Programmatic Requirements:
• As noted in the discussion of eligible grant activities below, some projects require a Principal Investigator
whose professional qualifications are consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s professional qualification
standards (https://www.nps.gov/history/local-law/arch_stnds_9.htm).
• Projects must result in tangible outcomes which address a preservation goal, and which are consistent with the
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Archaeology and Historic Preservation
(https://www.nps.gov/history/local-law/arch_stnds_0.htm), as applicable
• All written material must acknowledge receipt of federal funding as well as include a non-discrimination
statement.
• A Grant Agreement between the SHPO and the responsible parties must be signed before any federal funds
may be disbursed.
o Content: The Grant Agreement contains the approved scope of work, budget, project performance
period, detailed performance schedule, list of activities to be accomplished, and references to the
performance standards, stipulations, and federal regulations appropriate to the project, including: non-
discrimination, political activities, disclosure of information, conflict of interest, insurance,
handicapped accessibility, and record retention and accessibility.
o Signatories: If the CLG is administering the grant, the CLG’s Authorized Official (e.g. Mayor, Town
Manager, or other government staff with oversight responsibility) must sign the Grant Agreement. If
the project will be administered by a third party (e.g., an educational institution) on behalf of the CLG,
the Grant Agreement is made between the SHPO and the third party, with the CLG’s concurrence.
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• All activities and expenses associated with the grant including the hiring of a consultant are to take place
between the start and end dates indicated in the Grant Agreement or in any amendment to it. Start and end dates
vary by year and by the nature of the project. Any extension to the end date requires written approval by SHPO.
• Matching Share:
o The project budget must indicate a local match, either in cash or in kind, equal to a minimum of at least
40% of the total project costs.
o A CLG may partner with another entity that is willing to provide all or part of the matching funds for a
project. If the project will be administered by a third party on the CLG’s behalf, that party may be
contractually obligated to provide the match. In either case, the CLG must remain engaged in the
project, including ensuring that the required match is expended.
• CLGs may not charge for grant-funded programs except to cover associated direct costs that will not be
reimbursed with grant funds (e.g., providing meals for workshops), in accordance with federal rules.
• CLG grants are funded on a reimbursable basis and requests for reimbursement of project costs are made either
on a quarterly basis on a schedule indicated in the Grant Agreement, or at the close-out of the grant. Each
request for reimbursement which contains evidence of grant approved expenditures will be reimbursed at up to
60% of the documented expenditures, but in no case will the reimbursement of expenses exceed the grant
award. SHPO may retain up to 20% of the awarded grant funds until the tangible grant outcome is
achieved/produced. The Grant Agreement will stipulate the last date on which a request for reimbursement of
grant expenses can be submitted.
Administrative Requirements:
As part of the grant application (see Attachment 3), the CLG’s authorized representative certifies that
administrative requirements have or will be met, ensuring that the CLG:
• Has complied with all requirements of Delaware’s CLG Program including timely submittal of their annual
report outlining CLG commission actions and activities for the prior year;
• Has a satisfactory record of integrity, judgment, and performance especially related to performance of grants
and contracts;
• Has adequate financial resources for performance, as well as the necessary experience, technical qualifications,
and facilities;
• Has an adequate accounting system and auditing procedures to provide effective accountability and control of
property, funds and assets sufficient to meet federal audit requirements;
• Agrees to abide by applicable Federal regulations in the expenditure of Federal funds and performance under
this program (2 C.F.R. Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit
Requirements For Federal Awards) and the National Park Service’s HPF Grants Manual;
• Has financial and compliance audits in accordance with the Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996, and OMB-
Circular A-133, and submission of the audit report which covers the period of the grant to the SHPO Grant
Manager;
• Has conformed with federal debarment requirements as well as statutes relating to non-discrimination; and
• Has complied with provisions of the Hatch Act which limits political activities of employees whose principal
employment responsibilities are funded in whole or in part with federal funds.
ELIGIBLE GRANT ACTIVITIES
Several broad categories of projects have been approved for CLG grant funding. Within these categories, the CLG
may choose specific activities which align with their local needs. If uncertain as to whether a proposed project
might qualify for grant funding, applicants should discuss their proposals with the SHPO Grant Manager prior to
submittal. For collaborative projects, prior notification of the SHPO Grant Manager is required. The allowable
grant activities and the requirements related to each are outlined below.
Historic Property Surveys:
• An historic property survey project should reflect a defined area, and may be conducted at either identification
or evaluation level.
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• Identification surveys identify and gather data on a community’s historic resources. They require the
preparation of standard survey forms, maps and a report. Evaluation surveys build on the identification survey
by developing contexts under which the significance of properties can be determined. The final report also
specifies the boundary of any property or area which has been determined to have adequate significance and
integrity to be eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, as well as all contributing
buildings/structures.
• For areas surveyed more than 20 years ago, the CLG may conduct update surveys. Such surveys must produce
Delaware Cultural Resource Survey (CRS) forms, maps and photographs which conform to current standards.
• All survey projects must produce a survey report which meets the applicable federal standards and state
guidance contained in the SHPO’s guidelines, “Architectural Surveys in Delaware” (Feb. 2015), including
forms and photographs. CRS forms are submitted online through the Cultural and Historical Resource
Information System. Photographs should be in original TIFF, or first-generation JPEG converted to TIFF.
• The application’s project narrative must indicate the type of survey (identification, evaluation or update); a
written description as well as a map of the area to be surveyed; and the estimated acreage and number of
properties within the survey area. Final reports must indicate the number of acres actually surveyed (this data is
reported annually to the National Park Service).
• Survey reports, which are in compliance with the SHPO’s guidelines, “Architectural Surveys in Delaware”
(Feb. 2015) are submitted to the assigned SHPO Reviewer and the SHPO Grant Manager in digital format for
initial review in accordance with the schedule in the Grant Agreement. Final reports must be submitted prior to
the end date of the grant in both electronic, and, if not a section of a larger document, printed form.
• Historic Property Survey projects require oversight by a Principal Investigator (PI) who meets the professional
qualification standards contained in 36 CFR 61. If the PI for this project is a staff member or intern employed
by the CLG (or a partnering/third party entity, if applicable), then their resume should be attached to the
application. If the CLG will hire a consultant to carry out this project, then the resume of the PI should be
provided to the SHPO Grant Manager when the consultant or entity has been determined. The PI should contact
the SHPO Historic Property Research Center Manager prior to initiating any survey project in order to review
the existing information on file and assess requirements.
National Register Nominations or Amendments:
• A National Register project consists of preparing a National Register nomination for an individual property, or
historic district, or amending or providing significant additional information for a district or property already
listed in the National Register. Completing or updating CRS forms is also required if the property was not
previously surveyed or existing survey data does not meet current standards.
• The name of the property/properties to be nominated or updated need not be known at the time of application,
but the CLG is encouraged to consider a range of property types, including those currently underrepresented in
the National Register and/or identified as a priority in the current Delaware State Historic Preservation Plan.
• Within two months of the grant award, the CLG must provide the SHPO National Register Coordinator with a
list of any properties being considered for nomination. A CLG representative would then arrange a site visit
with the National Register Coordinator, nomination authors, and the property owner to determine the property’s
potential for nomination and to discuss the research criteria that would be required to support the nomination.
• Within four months of the grant award, the CLG should provide the National Register Coordinator with an
outline which includes but is not limited to: name of property; likely period of significance; applicable National
Register criterion, area(s) and level of significance; brief description of the property’s integrity; proposed areas
of research (including consideration of archaeological resources, if applicable); anticipated number of
contributing and non-contributing properties; proposed boundary; property owner’s name and address; name of
nomination author(s); and the proposed schedule for completion of the nomination.
• The CLG must allow adequate time in the schedule for the National Register Coordinator to review and
comment on drafts of the text of the nomination and for the author(s) to address such comments prior to
submittal of the final draft.
• Final drafts of nominations are to be submitted electronically by the end of the grant period. The National
Register Coordinator will provide guidance as to the requirements for the submittal. In general, such submittals
will include: the nomination form in Word format with all fields completed but editable; individual, unaltered
TIFF photographs with labels and a photo key; a USGS topographical map showing the location of the
property/historic district; a site map showing the nominated boundary (including coordinates) and the location
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of contributing/non-contributing properties; and other supporting documentation with a list of figures, as
needed.
• The final draft submittal must also include the names and addresses of property owners, to allow formal
notifications required by federal and state rules. The CLG is responsible for providing the property owners with
a copy of the draft and final draft nominations for their review and comment, prior to public presentations.
• The CLG is responsible for obtaining approvals of its local commission, and for preparing and presenting a
PowerPoint presentation before the State Review Board for Historic Preservation. This may take place outside
the grant period, but whenever feasible the schedule should allow for the nomination to be heard by the local
commission and State Review Board within the same federal fiscal year. The CLG must inform the National
Register Coordinator and the SHPO Grant Manager if the local commission requires changes to the nomination
after it has been approved by SHPO, and provide a revised copy of the final nomination. The CLG and SHPO
will coordinate on addressing any changes recommended by the State Review Board.
• National Register projects usually require oversight by a Principal Investigator (PI) who meets the professional
qualification standards contained in 36 CFR 61. If the PI for this project is a staff member or intern employed
by the CLG (or a partnering/third party entity, if applicable), then their resume should be attached to the
application. If the CLG will hire a consultant to carry out this project, then the resume of the PI should be
provided to the SHPO Grant Manager when the consultant or entity has been determined. If students are
assisting with nomination research and contributing to the writing of a nomination, their name and that of their
faculty advisor should be submitted as soon as that information is known. The PI should update the National
Register Coordinator on their progress in completing the nomination on a monthly basis.
Preservation Planning Assistance:
• A planning report may address any preservation related topic which is of concern to the CLG. Some examples
of planning projects are: preparation or update of the historic preservation component of a municipal or county
comprehensive plan; development of an historic context; development of or revisions to an historic zoning
ordinance; or assessment to expand a local zoning or National Register historic district.
• Planning projects must produce a report or draft document which meets applicable Standards. In the
application, the project narrative should indicate the type of planning document to be produced; the geographic
area of impact; for contexts, the theme, time period and geographic zone; and if the project will produce a new
or a revised document. SHPO will assign a staff member to perform an initial review and provide comments on
planning reports. Final reports must be submitted to the SHPO Grant Manager prior to the end date of the grant
period in both electronic and printed form.
• Preservation Planning projects generally require oversight by a Principal Investigator (PI) who meets the
professional qualification standards contained in 36 CFR 61. If the PI for this project is a staff member or intern
employed by the CLG (or a partnering/third party entity, if applicable), then their resume should be attached to
the application. If the CLG will hire a consultant to carry out this project, then the resume of the PI should be
provided to the SHPO Grant Manager when the consultant or entity has been determined.
Outreach to Public on Preservation Issues:
• Outreach projects may include, but are not limited to: technical or informational workshops or seminars (in-
person or virtual); brochures addressing issues such as design review guidelines, local zoning laws, driving or
walking tours; or web pages on the aforementioned topics.
• The CLG is encouraged to discuss specific public outreach proposals with the SHPO Grant Manager in advance
of applying to ensure that the topic is eligible for grant funding. In the application, the following questions
should be answered, as appropriate.
• Who is the intended audience for the project and why is that constituency targeted?
• If a program/workshop/conference is proposed, how many people are expected to attend? [In-person
programs must be held at handicapped accessible locations and should be free. If a fee is to be
charged, it should be limited to only direct costs that are not reimbursable by the grant, e.g. for
covering meals. For virtual programs, please indicate the anticipated platform to be used.]
• What form will the publication take? How will it be disseminated? If printed materials are an element
of a project, how many copies will be produced? [Examples of published materials include: web pages,
GIS-based story maps, brochures, pamphlets, monographs, reports, videos or PowerPoint presentations.
The number of copies of printed materials should be adequate to disseminate the information it
contains to the intended audience. Published material must be distributed without charge.]
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• Project oversight by a consultant, partnering entity, or a staff member who meets the professional qualification
standards may or may not be required, depending on the nature of the outreach. If professional assistance is part
of the project, the application should indicate this. Public Outreach projects also often involve volunteers (see
section on Allowable Costs for CLG Grant - Donated Time for further information on how volunteer time is
compensated).
Training for Commission Members or CLG Staff:
• CLGs may seek grant funding to provide commission members and commission staff with training which
assists them in fulfillment of their responsibilities or furthers their knowledge of preservation issues. NOTE:
Advance approval from the SHPO Grant Manager for attendance at each training/workshop is required. Such
approval may be obtained when the grant is initiated or may be requested during the grant period. If such
approval is not obtained prior to the workshop/training event, costs related to it will not be reimbursed.
• In the CLG grant application, include the following information:
o the name of the workshop/training and the organization that is providing it;
o whether the workshop/training will occur in-person, virtually or be taken online
o the anticipated date(s) of the workshop/training
o if in-person, the location and mode of travel
o who will attend/participate, and how it will benefit those attending.
• On-line training courses and/or participation in virtual conferences: costs of course fees and conference
registration may be covered with grant funds.
• In-person travel: Cost of basic registration (no tours unless directly related to training), transportation, and
lodging may be covered by grant funds. Restrictions may apply.
• Contracting with the National Alliance for Preservation Commissions (NAPC) to provide its Commission
Assistance and Mentoring Program (CAMP) is an allowable project under this category.
Support for 36 CFR 61 Qualified Staff or Intern:
• The resume of the 36CFR qualified staff person or consultant to be supported in whole or in part by grant
funding must be attached to the grant application.
• Staff that will be supported by grant funds must carry out projects which fit the approved categories above, and/
or technical assistance to the CLG as described in the list of activities below. The application must define the
proposed projects, state the categories of technical assistance that will be included in the grant and the
estimated number of cases in each category. Approved technical assistance activities are:
o To administer the grant project, including all required reports;
o To provide information on state or local preservation plan goals and priorities to the public and those within
their governmental agency;
o To educate themselves, those within their agency, and their boards and commissions regarding historic
preservation issues;
o To explain the goals and objectives in the State Historic Preservation Plan to those within their
governmental agency and the public;
o To provide information to their agency regarding preservation goals for inclusion in local land use or
agency plans;
o To distribute information regarding federal or state historic preservation tax incentives or other federal
programs which might meet constituent’s needs;
o To assist the public by determining whether their property is potentially eligible for listing in the National
Register of Historic Places;
o To explain survey or National Register work and train interns to carry out such work;
o To review or advise on historic preservation rehabilitation standards to those within their governmental
agency or to the public;
o To make determinations of eligibility and identifying projects that may affect archaeological resources or
National Register-eligible historic properties within their jurisdiction, and advise project managers on ways
to avoid or minimize effects;
o To review demolition permits and land use changes for their impact on historic properties; and
o To assist those within their governmental agency and federal agencies with whom they interact in regard to
compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, including development of
Programmatic Agreements. [Note: Costs associated with mitigation activities performed as a condition or
pre-condition of obtaining a federal permit or funding by other federal programs are not allowable.]
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ALLOWABLE COSTS FOR CLG GRANTS
The list below includes most types of allowable costs associated with CLG grants. Note that a number of cost
categories require advance discussion with the SHPO Grant Manager. Any proposed cost not indicated in this list
should also first be discussed with the SHPO Grant Manager.
1. Advertising – If the advertising is directly related to project activities, and includes required disclaimers.
2. Books – If directly related to project objectives and after prior approval by the SHPO Grant Manager.
3. Personnel Compensation (including wages, salaries and fringe benefits) – These may be paid from the
grant or may be matching share as long as the personnel are directly involved with grant activities or
administrative or fiscal oversight. In addition to salary, employer’s contributions or expenses for social
security, employee’s life and health insurance plans, unemployment insurance coverage, workmen’s
compensation insurance, and pension plans are allowable provided such benefits are granted under
approved plans and are distributed equitably. Note that benefits in the form of regular compensation paid to
employees during periods of authorized absences from the job, such as for annual leave, sick leave, court
leave, military leave, and the like, are allowable only if the cost is equitably allocated.
4. Capital Expenditures (Costs Over $500) – Requires prior approval from SHPO Grant Manager.
5. Donated Time – Volunteer time may be used as a part of the matching share if it is integral and necessary
to the project. The application should indicate the estimated number of hours and the hourly rate claimed
for each volunteer. Rates claimed for volunteer services within their area of professional expertise (e.g.
lawyer’s performing legal services) must be consistent with rates paid for similar work in State
government, up to a maximum of $50 (Contact SHPO Grant Manager to discuss rates). For all others, the
Delaware minimum wage rate must be used.
6. Exhibits – If the exhibit is temporary and the topic is related to grant objectives.
7. Indirect Costs – If developed in accordance with applicable indirect cost principles and based on a current
provisional rate awarded by a federal agency in accordance with an approved cost allocation plan. Include a
copy of the indirect cost plan approval, and documentation of the approved rate, the time period which it
covers, and the cost categories covered by the rate. NOTE: The SHPO caps this rate at 25%. The cap
on overhead was advised by the NPS, to ensure that total administrative costs for the entire HPF grant
(SHPO funds and those allocated to CLGs) do not exceed the 25% limit in the National Historic
Preservation Act, the enabling legislation of the HPF grant program.
8. Materials and Specialized Supplies – If these supplies are directly related to project goals; general
stationery and office supplies are excluded.
9. Mileage – reimbursable only up to the approved state mileage rate (currently $ .40 per mile). This may be
an approved cost either for travel (such as to conferences) or for transportation costs incurred for carrying
out other program activities (such as survey). Discuss with the SHPO Grant Manager.
10. Postage and Shipping – If directly related to project objectives.
11. Printing and Reproduction – If directly related to project objectives (includes photo reproduction and
duplication, and photocopying).
12. Professional and Consultant Services – Procurement of services is to be conducted in a manner that
provides open and free competition (Discuss with SHPO Grant Manager). The maximum rate of pay may
not exceed 120% of a Federal Civil Service GS-15 Step 10 salary, divided by 2087 hours (currently $81.84
per hour).
13. Registration – For attendance at conferences/workshops (basic registration only – no special tours unless
directly related to HPF program areas) and online participation in virtual conferences/workshops (SHPO
Grant Manager must approve attendance in advance).
14. Travel – Costs of transportation to and from the conference at the state approved mileage rate between the
attendee’s home or office and the conference location. Public transportation is reimbursed at cost when
receipts are provided. Lodging at the federal per diem rate is also allowed. Other restrictions may apply
(contact the SHPO Grant Manager).
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GRANT APPLICATION PACKET and FORMS
The Authorized Representative/Chief Elected Official for each CLG will be notified annually of grant availability.
This notification will indicate the tentative award amount and the due date for grant applications which varies
annually (dependent on passage of the federal budget and notice of the funding opportunity). No late submissions
will be accepted without prior approval. Any excess grant funds will be re-assigned in accordance with the criteria
outlined above.
Please email grant applications as a scanned pdf (limited to 10 MB) to: gwen.davis@delaware.gov.
If the application must be sent by US mail, please notify the SHPO Grant Manager at the above email address, first.
Mailed (or hand-delivered) applications may be sent to:
Gwen Davis, Deputy SHPO, Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs
21 The Green, Dover, DE 19901
Upon receipt, applications will be reviewed to determine if they meet the requirements outlined in these guidelines.
The CLG’s Project Coordinator listed on the application cover form will be contacted if there are any questions
regarding the proposed project.
The CLG grant application packet consists of four main sections. Attach any supplementary materials required to
support the project as outlined in the Eligible Grant Activities section above.
1. CLG Grant Application Packet Cover Form (Attachment 1 form): Indicate the name of the project, the
project contacts, and provide a short description of the project.
2. Project Narrative: A detailed description of the project, limited to no more than three typed pages, and
addressing all of the questions outlined below for each project activity to be included as part of the project:
What: What will be achieved as a result of the project? All projects must result in some tangible
outcome/product. [See the Eligible Grant Activities section for further guidance.]
Where: Where is the geographic area that will be impacted by the project? [Provide a map, as needed.]
Why: Why is the proposed activity important to your community? Indicate benefit to historic
preservation in your community that would result from the project. Indicate the objectives in
Delaware’s State Historic Preservation Plan that would be met by the project.
How: How will the activity be undertaken? Indicate the methods to be employed to achieve your
objectives.
Who: Who will be involved in the project? Provide the names and/or titles of all personnel who are to
be involved in the project indicating their role. For known project personnel who will serve as a
Principal Investigator, provide their resume. NOTE: If the project will be administered by a
third party (e.g., an educational institution), the application must clearly state that the CLG
is delegating administration of the grant to that third party.
When: Indicate the schedule for completing project work. If there are specific events, when will they
happen? If there are reports, when will they be completed?
3. Project Budget (Attachments 2 and 2A forms, or equivalent): The project budget information must
indicate all costs associated with the project, as well as information related to the donor, source, kind, and
amount of non-federal (matching) funds for the project. Please refer to the above guidance on Allowable
Costs for CLG Grants, and see Attachment 2A for guidance on defining applicant match that may be
contributed by the applicant or a third party. Applicants may use Attachments 2 and 2A to provide the
budget information, or use their own project budget forms as long as they contain equivalent information.
4. Statement of Assurances for CLG Grants (Attachment 3 form): Certification that the CLG is in
compliance with the administrative requirements of the grant program. It must be signed by the chief
elected official/authorized representative of the CLG.
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Item 11.
Attachment 1
CLG GRANT APPLICATION PACKET COVER FORM
CLG Applicant:
Contact Responsible for Responsible for If Applicable*
Person Program Management Fiscal Management Responsible Third Party Entity
Name/
Title
Address
Phone
Email
* If the CLG will delegate administration of the grant to a third party, please clearly state that in the Project
Narrative and provide the name of the third party entity and contact information for its program and
fiscal managers that will administer the grant.
Indicate Attachments:
□ Project Narrative (maximum of 3 pages) □ Statement of Assurances (Attachment 3)
□ Project Budget (Attachment 2 or equiv.) □ Resume of Principal Investigator
□ Applicant Match (Attachment 2A or equiv.) □ Other _____________________________
Eligible Grant Activities (check all that apply):
□ Survey □ Commission/Staff Training
□ National Register □ Public Outreach
□ Planning □ Support for CLG Staff
Short summary of the application’s goals and activities including the time frame of the project:
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Item 11.
Attachment 2
PROJECT BUDGET FORM
(Complete applicable sections; round to nearest dollar)
COST CATEGORIES COSTS TOTALS
Personnel Salary and Fringes
# of hrs. (Rate $ ) $
# of hrs. (Rate $ ) $
# of hrs. (Rate $ ) $
# of hrs. (Rate $ ) $
Personnel Total $
Volunteers (This must be listed in Attachment 2A)
# of hrs. (Rate $ ) $
# of hrs. (Rate $ ) $
# of hrs. (Rate $ ) $
# of hrs. (Rate $ ) $
Volunteer Total $
Consultant Services (Name, if known, and rate/hr.)
$
Consultant Total $
Supplies and Expenses (List specific cost categories)
$
$
$
$
$
$
Supplies and Expenses Total $
Indirect Cost Rate (see Allowable Costs for CLG Grants) ($ X %) $
TOTAL PROJECT COSTS $
FEDERAL SHARE REQUESTED $___________
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Item 11.
Attachment 2A
APPLICANT MATCH
(To be provided by applicant or an entity partnering with the CLG)
Donor: Donor:
Source: Source:
Kind: Kind:
Amount: Amount:
Donor: Donor:
Source: Source:
Kind: Kind:
Amount: Amount:
TOTAL MATCH: $ (Must equal or exceed 40% of the total project costs)
Definitions to be used to complete the information above:
Donor: Indicate applicant’s name or list name(s) of other donor(s)
Source: Indicate the source of the funds (examples: operating funds, private donation, appropriated
funds)
Kind: Indicate the kind of match (examples: cash, applicant personnel or in-kind services,
donated/volunteer time, or indirect costs (with a federally approved indirect cost plan)
Amount: For each kind of applicant match indicate the dollar amount
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Item 11.
Attachment 3
STATEMENT OF ASSURANCES FOR CLG GRANTS
As a duly authorized representative of the government which is applying for this federal CLG Grant, I
certify the following statements to be true.
1. The applicant has complied with all requirements of Delaware’s CLG Program including timely
submittal of their annual report outlining CLG commission actions and activities for the prior year.
2. The applicant has a satisfactory record of integrity, judgment, and performance, especially with
prior performance of grants and contracts.
3. The applicant will be able to comply with the proposed completion schedule for the project.
4. The applicant has adequate financial resources for performance, as well as the necessary
experience, technical qualifications, and facilities.
5. The applicant has an adequate accounting system and auditing procedures to provide effective
accountability and control of property, funds and assets sufficient to meet federal audit
requirements.
6. The applicant will comply with all applicable requirements of the federal Office of Management
and Budget’s (OMB) regulations 2 C.F.R. Part 200 and the National Park Service’s Historic
Preservation Fund Grants Manual.
7. The applicant will perform the required financial and compliance audits in accordance with the
Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996, and OMB-Circular A-133.
8. The applicant is in conformance with all federal statutes relating to non-discrimination, and will
execute a U.S. Department of the Interior Civil Rights Assurance of Compliance as part of their
Letter of Agreement.
9. The applicant will comply with provision of the Hatch Act which limit political activities of
employees whose principal employment responsibilities are funded in whole or in part with federal
funds.
10. The applicant is not debarred from receiving federal funds.
11. The applicant will comply with the Grant Requirements outlined in application guidelines, and with
the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Historic Preservation Projects, as
applicable.
Signature of CLG Authorized Representative Date
Typed Name and Title of Authorized Representative
Applicant (Municipality or County)
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Item 11.
The activities funded under the CLG grant program are financed in part with federal funds from the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the
Interior. However, the contents and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Department of the Interior. Under Title VI of the
Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, the U.S. Department
of the Interior prohibits discrimination or age in its federally assisted programs. If you believe you have been discriminated against in any program,
activity funded by this Program, or if you desire further information, please write to: Office of Equal Opportunity, National Park Service, 1849 C
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20240.
Rev. 2020
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