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CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MEETING
Thursday, January 18, 2024 at 3:30 PM
City Hall Conference Room, 15 Loockerman Plaza, Dover, Delaware
AGENDA
IN-PERSON and VIRTUAL MEETING NOTICE
The Historic District Commission Meeting for January 18, 2024 will be held in the City Hall Conference
Room. The public is welcome to attend in person. The Meeting will also be provided as a Virtual Meeting
using WebEx audio/video conferencing system as an electronic means of communication. See the
participation information below to join by phone or computer.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION INFORMATION
City of Dover Historic District Commission Meeting of January 18, 2024
Join by Phone Dial: 1-650-479-3208
Access code: 253 815 93235 (Password: 36837432)
Join Online: https://bit.ly/HDCMeeting11824
Webinar Number: 2538 159 3235
Webinar Password: DoverHDC
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
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Meeting Minutes of November 16, 2023 are not yet available.
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
Summary of Activity
1. Summary of Applications 2022 and 2023
1
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HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MEETING - January 18, 2024 PAGE 2
2. Summary of Architectural Review Certificates for 2023
Department of Planning & Inspections Updates
Project & Studies Activities
3. Update on C-2 Code Amendments Project for Potential Revisions to Zoning Ordinance for
C-2 (Central Commercial Zone) - Proposed Draft Ordinance #2024-01
Other Information
4. Delaware Preservation Fund - Small Grants Program: Application deadline is February 9,
2024 for the funding available through Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc.
NEW APPLICATIONS
NEW BUSINESS
Review of Permits Referred to Commission
5. HI-24-01 Referral of Fence Permit #23-1868 at 146 S. State Street - Referral by the City
Planner to the Historic District Commission for Review of Architectural Review Certification
for a Fence Permit #23-1868. The project involves a 6-foot vinyl fence to the rear of the
property spanning from the fence at the northern adjacent property along the parking lot to the
south side adjacent property fence with 2 pedestrian gates. Additionally, there is a 6-foot vinyl
fence segment between the northern adjacent property fence and the building with a
pedestrian gate. Property is zoned C-2 (Central Commercial Zone) and subject to the H
(Historic District Zone). The owner of record is State Street 146 Properties, LLC. Address:
146 S. State Street. Tax Parcel: ED05-077.09-02-58.00-000. Council District 4.
OLD BUSINESS
Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
Implementation of 2019 Comprehensive Plan
ADJOURN
Posted: January 11, 2024
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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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2022 Item 1.
Updated thru December 31, 2023
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-22-01 Referral of Fence 502 -506 S. State Fence Permit Permit #21-1556 referred to HDC by Permit Application received 11/18/2021
Permit #21-1556 Street and 100 W. City Planner for consultation on and Referred to the HDC for consultation.
at 506 S. State Water Street Architectural Review Certification; Permit approved for issuance per HDC
Street 1/20/2022 HDC recommended action of 1/20/2022. Permit issued
approval of ArchRevCert to allow 1/24/2022. Fence installed.
revised height of 6-feet for black metal
fence.
HI-22-02 Lands of the State 411 S Governors Rezoning to H Public Hearing and Review by HDC on Request to expand boundary of the Historic
of Delaware at S. Avenue, 429 S (Historic District 3/24/2022; Recommended Approval District as Rezoning Application HI-22-02/Z-
Governors Governors Avenue, Zone) of Rezoning 22-01. Public Hearing and Review by
Avenue and W. 435 S Governors Planning Commission on 3/21/2022 -
Water Street: Avenue, 439 S Recommendation of Approval; Public
Rezoning to H Governors Hearing and Review by Historic District
Avenue/117 W Commission on 3/24/2022 -
Water Street, 441 S Recommendation of Approval; and
Governors Avenue, scheduled for Public Hearing and Final
447 S Governors Action by City Council on 4/11/2022.
Avenue Rezoning Approved.
HI-22-03 Kent County 415 S. Governors Site Plan Review for Public Hearing and Review for Site development plan for new Courthouse
Family Avenue and 445 S. Architectural Recommendation on Architectural Building, Parking Garage Structure, and
Courthouse & Governors Avenue; Certification Review Certification by HDC on associated Site Improvements. HDC
Parking Garage East side of S. 4/11/2022. Recommended approval of recommendation forwarded to Planning
Governors Avenue ArchRevCert including reduction of Commission. Planning Commission granted
between Bank Lane rear yard setback. Update on Revision conditional approval of S-22-06 and
and W. Water St for Fence Alternative referred to HDC ArchRevCert on June 21, 2022. Final Plan
for 7/20/2023 Meeting. Approval granted 7/24/2023. Lot
Consolidation Plan to recorded.
Consideration of Revision for Fence
Alternative granted conditional approval by
HDC 7/20/2023. Building Permits #23-1150
Courthouse and #23-1151 Parking Garage
issued 10/23/2023. Construction underway.
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2022 Item 1.
Updated thru December 31, 2023
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-22-04 Referral of Permit 527-529 S. State Permit for Parking Permit #22-661 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received 4/20/2022 and
#22-661 at 527- Street Improvements Planner for consultation on Referred to the HDC for consultation.
529 S. State Architectural Review Certification; HDC Project for construction of seven parking
Street recommended ArchRevCert with spaces on the property. received
conditions on screening at 5/19/2022 submission of Revised Plan of parking area
Meeting for Permit Review. Permit issued
12/27/2022. Project underway.
HI-22-05 Delaware Public 121 Martin Luther Architectural Review Project referred to HDC by City Planner Proposed Roof Project Referred to the HDC
Archives: King Jr. Boulevard Certification for consultation on Architectural for consultation. Project design
Consultation on North Consultation Review Certification; HDC considered consideration of alternative materials for
Roof Project at 5/19/2022 Meeting and made Roof Replacement Project. Roof Permit
recommendation of roof material Application received in July 2023; issued
options. 7/14/2023. Project underway.
HI-22-06 Referral of Permit 43 The Green, John Permit for Accessory Permit #22-1298 referred to HDC by Permit Application received 7/25/2022 and
#22-1298 at 43 Bell House Structure (Restroom City Planner for consultation on Referred to the HDC for consultation.
The Green & Storage) Architectural Review Certification; at Project for construction of accessory
8/18/2022 HDC recommended structure on the property. Permit approved
approval of ArchRevCert to allow by Planning Office for issuance per HDC
accessory structure construction and action of 8/18/2022. Permit issued
reduction of rear setback requirement. 8/15/2023. Project under construction.
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2022 Item 1.
Updated thru December 31, 2023
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-22-07 Referral of 235-239 West Update on Project referred to HDC by City Planner Building declared Dangerous by City Council
Demolition Loockerman Street Dangerous Building for update on building and proposal on 8/15/2022. Following no action by
Activities at 235- Designation and for Demolition of Dangerous Building; property owner, the City is progressing with
239 W. Demolition Activities at 10/10/2022 Meeting HDC Bid Process for Demolition; Bid Opening
Loockerman St considered Determination of was 10/26/2022 and award made. HDC
Demolition by Neglect and determined "Demolition By Neglect" for the
Architectural Review Certification for Building and pertaining to Architectural
Demolition Review Certification the HDC's motion
requested continued evaluation of the
building for the potential of saving it
acknowledging potential buyer interest.
Determination by City Solicitor that City
Council Action governs. Demolition Permit
#22-1902 issued 12/5/2022. Demolition
complete and lot stabilized with grass
planting.
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2023 Item 1.
Updated thru December 31, 2023
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-23-01 Lands of Shank 34 The Green Site Plan for Parking Review for Architectural Review Site Plan granted conditional approval by
Shack, LLC: Lot Reconfiguration Certification of Site Plan; Public Historic District Commission. Administrative
Parking Lot Improvements Hearing and Review by HDC Site Plan review completed: Final Plan
Improvements 1/19/2023. Recommended approval of approval issued May 2023. of
ArchRevCert for project. Administrative Building Permit #23-1668
issued 11/6/2023 to commence
construction. Improvements are associated
with future Kent County Family Court
Project. Project underway.
HI-23-02 Referral of Fence 147 S. New Street Fence Permit Permit #23-781 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received 5/12/2023 and
Permit #23-781 at Planner for consultation on Referred to the HDC for consultation.
147 S. New Street Architectural Review Certification; Permit to be approved for issuance per HDC
5/18/2023 HDC recommended action of 5/18/2023. Permit issued
approval of ArchRevCert to allow 6/6/2023. Fence installed.
height of 6-feet constructed of wood
materials that may be stained (no vinyl
fence).
HI-23-03 Referral of Permit 43 The Green, John Sign Permit for Permit #23-987 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received and Referred to
#23-987 at 43 The Bell House Informational Kiosk Planner for consultation on the HDC for consultation. Project is
Green Architectural Review Certification; installation of information kiosk of 9 SF as
7/20/2023 HDC recommended post and panel style sign to display
approval of ArchRevCert to allow kiosk information on the First State Heritage Park
style sign subject to use of certain activities. Permit approved for issuance per
materials. HDC action of 7/20/2023 requiring the use
of black metal material or painted wood for
kiosk.
HI-23-04 Referral of Sign 32 W. Loockerman Sign Permit for 2 Permit #23-1462 referred to HDC by Permit Application received and Referred to
Permit #23-1462 Street Business Tenants City Planner for consultation on the HDC for Consultation. Project is
at 32 W. Architectural Review Certification; installation of signage for two tenants. HDC
Loockerman St 10/19/2023 HDC recommended recommended Revised Signage. Permit
approval of ArchRevCert for window approved for part of window sign portion of
signs and signs on metal band. project.
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2023 Item 1.
Updated thru December 31, 2023
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-23-05 Referral of 153 S. Bradford Demolition Permit Permit #23-1521 referred to HDC by Building condemned by Code Enforcement,
Demolition Street for Demolition of City Planner for consultation on Case #23-3847. Permit Application received
Permit #23-1521 Second Floor Architectural Review Certification; for Partial Demolition and Referred to the
at 153 S. Bradford deferred from October 19, 2023 HDC HDC for Consultation. Project seeks to
St Meeting at request of Applicant. demolish the second floor of the masonry
Consideration began at November 16, building and construct flat roof system.
2023 HDC Meeting; action pending
submission of additional information.
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Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Item 2.
2023 - Updated Thru 12-31-2023
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
1/25/2023 22-2005 101 W Loockerman St Fence Permit Staff Approval Installation of gate system (metal)
at parking lot entrances.
2/16/2023 23-6 6 S State Street Window Permit Staff Approval Replacement of windows on third
floor with double hung 2-over-2
windows. Same size as existing.
2/23/2023 23-91 45 S State Street Demolition Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior demolition activities related
required for interior work. to renovations due to water
damage.
3/20/2023 22-1674 108 W Loockerman St, Sign Permit Staff Approval Installation of projecting sign for
Coney Island Grill restaurant.
4/21/2023 22-1017 144 S Governors Avenue Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for commercial
Renovations required for interior work. tenant space on first floor and
apartment units on second floor. No
exterior changes to brick building.
4/12/2023 23-315 225 W Loockerman St Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for commercial
Renovations required for interior work. tenant (retail) on first floor.
4/12/2023 23-316 225 W Loockerman St Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for apartment
Renovations required for interior work. unit on second floor.
4/4/2023 23-354 146 S State Street Sign Permit Staff Approval Installation of projecting sign for
office and wall sign placement on
porch railing side.
4/4/2023 23-355 144 Kings Hwy SW Sign Permit Staff Approval Installation of projecting sign along
porch cornice for restaurant.
4/5/2023 23-364 231 W Loockerman St Fence Permit Staff Approval Installation of two gates in alleyway
spaces between buildings.
4/19/2023 23-421 102 S Governors Ave Administrative Building Permit Staff Approval Replacement of sidewalk leading to
building.
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Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Item 2.
2023 - Updated Thru 12-31-2023
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
4/17/2023 23-442 31 W Loockerman St Sign Permit Staff Approval Installation of one projecting sign
and reface of existing wall (box) sign
for new retail tenant.
4/20/2023 23-458 203 S State Street, Delaware Roof Permit Staff Approval Roof replacement with DaVinci
State University Foundation shake style composite shingles on
multiple roof surfaces.
4/20/2023 23-459 203 S State Street, Delaware Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Reinstallation of shutters on
State University Foundation Renovations building of panel shutters and
louvered shutters with metal
hardware.
4/26/2023 23-478 6 Kings Hwy NE Fence Permit Staff Approval installation of black metal fence
with gates in the rear.
4/21/2023 23-546 151 Kings Hwy SW, Roof Permit No Planning Staff Review. Replacement of flat roof with EDPM
Woodburn roof membrane.
5/5/2023 23-547 151 Kings Hwy SW, Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Repair south portico columns.
Woodburn Renovations
5/3/2023 23-610 33 S. State Street Sign Permit Staff Approval Additional business name panel
added to existing post sign.
5/19/2023 23-790 151-181 Kings Hwy SW, Fence Permit Staff Approval Black aluminum fencing added
Woodburn along south and east property lines.
5/25/2023 23-853 117-119 W Loockerman Roof Permit Staff Approval Replacement of flat roof with roof
Steet, Mitten & Winters membrane.
6/6/2023 23-781 147 S. New Street, Tastes Fence Permit Staff Approval per HDC Replacement of fence with wood
Chicken & Seafood Recommendation of 5/18/2023 fence of 6 ft. height as per HDC
Recommendation of HI-23-02
6/29/2023 23-1025 140 S. State Street, Grey Fox Window Permit Staff Approval Replacement of all windows to
Grille follow same size and
reconfiguration.
7/13/2023 23-945 501 S. State Street, Christ Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval Temporary Banner installation.
Church
7/26/2023 23-962 136 W. Loockerman Street, Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior Renovations for new
Key to Life Juice Bar Renovations required for interior work. restaurant type tenant.
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Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Item 2.
2023 - Updated Thru 12-31-2023
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
7/25/2023 23-987 45 The Green, next to John Sign Permit Staff Approval per HDC Kiosk (for activity postings) in yard
Bell House Recommendation of 7/20/2023 area next to John Bell House. Permit
approved subject to material
conditions of HDC Consultation HI-
23-03.
7/14/2023 23-999 121 Martin Luther King Jr Roof Permit Staff Approval per HDC consultation Roof replacement of flat roof areas
Blvd N discussion of HI-22-05 in May 2022. as membrane and pitched roof
areas as composite slate. Previous
consultation with HDC on roof
material options.
7/13/2023 23-1066 29 S. State Street Roof Permit Staff Approval. Roof replacement of existing
asphalt shingles with new
architectural asphalt shingles.
8/15/2023 22-1298 43 The Green, John Bell Building Permit - Accessory Staff Approval per HDC Construction of accessory structure
House Structure Recommendation of 8/18/2022. with storage and restroom.
Reviewed as HI-22-06.
8/15/2023 23-1050 89 Kings Highway SW, Window & Door Permit Staff Approval. Replacement of exterior windows
DNREC - Richardson & and repairs to sills, headers, and
Robbins Building trimwork and refinish/repair select
doors.
8/2/2023 23-1167 123 W. Loockerman Street, Sign Permit Staff Approval. Installation of wall sign for business.
The Wedding Boutique
8/17/2023 23-1207 28 W. Loockerman Street, Sign Permit Staff Approval. Installation of wall sign (individual
The Hive: Business & Event letters) in sign band area of wall.
Center
8/23/2023 23-1225 420 S. State Street, Offices Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations to convert
for Delaware Restaurant Renovations required for interior work. existing single family detached
Association residence to offices.
8/25/2023 23-1253 217-221 W. Loockerman Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations to portion of
Street, Catering & Teaching Renovations required for interior work. building to convert spaces to
Commercial Kitchen Catering & Teaching Commercial
Kitchen.
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Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Item 2.
2023 - Updated Thru 12-31-2023
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
9/12/2023 23-1236 21 W. Loockerman Street, Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Installation of Stair Lift on interior
Dover Art League Renovations required for interior work. for access to second floor gallery.
9/7/2023 23-1380 108 E Water Street Roof Permit Staff Approval. Roof replacement of asphalt
shingles with asphalt shingles.
9/13/2023 23-1430 136 E. Water Street Building Permit - Interior No Planning Staff Review. Interior Renovations for crawlspace
Renovations insulation.
9/26/2023 23-1512 410 Federal Street, O'Neill Door Permit Staff Approval Replacement of two exterior raised
Building panel double entry doors in same
format.
10/19/2023 23-373 500 W Loockerman St Administrative Building Permit -Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for tenant fit-
Tenant Fit out required for interior work. out.
10/23/2023 23-1150 445 S Governors Avenue, Building Permit Approval per HDC Recommendation New construction of Courthouse
Kent County Family and PC Approval of ArchRevCert Building. Reviewed as HI-22-03 and
Courthouse S-22-06.
10/23/2023 23-1151 415 S Governors Avenue. Building Permit Approval per HDC Recommendation New construction of Parking
Kent County Family and PC Approval of ArchRevCert Structure for Courthouse. Reviewed
Courthouse Parking Garage as HI-22-03 and S-22-06.
10/24/2023 23-1621 145 Kings Hwy SW, Sign Permit Staff Approval. Replace of existing monument sign
Apartment Complex at entrance to apartment complex.
Consolidated several signs into one.
10/27/2023 23-1642 6 Kings Hwy NE, Single Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations to kitchen.
Family Residence Renovations required for interior work.
11/16/2023 23-983 6 S State Street Window Permit Staff Approval. Window replacements on second
floor and third floor.
11/6/2023 23-1667 30 The Green, Lands of King Admin Building Permit - Approval per HDC Recommendation Parking Lot Improvements reviewed
of Clubs Parking Lot of ArchRevCert as HI-21-04
11/6/2023 23-1668 34 The Green, Lands of Admin Building Permit - Approval per HDC Recommendation Parking Lot Improvements reviewed
Shank Shack Parking Lot of ArchRevCert as HI-23-01
11/8/2023 23-1694 2 W Loockerman Street Sign Permit Staff Approval. Wall sign of individual letters in
space on sign band for law office
tenant.
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Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Item 2.
2023 - Updated Thru 12-31-2023
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
12/20/2023 23-1607 140 S. State Street, Grey Fox Roof Permit Staff Approval. Roof replacement of flat roof area
Grille with membrane roof. Not visible.
12/1/2023 23-1721 7 The Green, Ridgely House Roof Permit Staff Approval Roof replacement on back roof and
gutter system.
12/8/2023 23-1787 45 S State Street Roof Permit Staff Approval Roof replacement of existing
shingles with architectural shingles.
12/18/2023 23-1829 3 S American Avenue Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Renovations to ADA Ramp and
Renovations exterior stair to second floor on rear
of building. Not visible from street.
12/27/2023 23-1838 6 S State Street Roof Permit Staff Approval Roof work on flat roof area.
12
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Item 3.
CITY OF DOVER ORDINANCE #2024-01 Proposed Draft Ordinance
1 BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
2 COUNCIL MET:
3
4 That Appendix B – Zoning, Article 3 Section 13. Central Commercial Zone (C-2) be amended by
5 inserting the text indicated in bold, blue font and deleting the text indicated in red strikeout as follows:
6
7 APPENDIX B – ZONING
8
9 ARTICLE 3 - DISTRICT REGULATIONS
10
11 Section 13. - Central commercial zone (C-2).
12
13 13.1 Uses permitted. In a central commercial zone (C-2), no building or premises shall be used, and no
14 building or part of a building shall be erected, which is arranged, intended, or designed to be used, in
15 whole or in part, for any purpose, except the following:
16
17 (a) Retail stores.
18 (b) Restaurants, cafes, and eating establishments.
19 (c) Commercial kitchens.
20 (d) Microbrewery, craft distillery, and meadery establishments.
21 (c) (e) Hotels, including bed and breakfast inns.
22 (d) (f) Art galleries and artisan studios.
23 (e) (g) Service establishments.
24 (h) Banks and financial institutions
25 (f) (i) Personal service establishments.
26 (g) (j) Business, professional, and government offices.
27 (h) (k) Apartments and multi-family dwellings, provided that no dwelling units shall be
28 permitted in on the first floor on the street frontage of Loockerman Street. Uses accessory to the
29 residential units such as lobby and amenity spaces are permitted on the first floor.
30 (l) Live-work units.
31 (i) (m) Indoor recreation and amusement establishments.
32 (n) Parking lots and parking structures as a principal use.
33 (o) Places of public assembly.
34 (p) Manufacturing, assembling, converting, altering, finishing, cleaning, cooking, baking,
35 or any other processing of products where goods so produced or processed are to be sold at
36 retail on the premises or online and where the size of the establishment shall not exceed
37 5,000 square feet in floor area.
38 (q) Open space areas.
39
40 13.2 Conditional uses. The following uses are permitted, conditional upon the approval of the planning
41 commission in accordance with the procedures and subject to the general conditions set forth in article
42 10, section 1:
43
44 (a) Parking lots and parking structures as a principal use.
13
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Item 3.
DRAFT Proposed Ordinance #2024-01 - Amending Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 13 Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) and related development provisions of Zoning Ordinance Page 2 of 10
45 (b) Places of public assembly.
46 (c) Manufacturing, assembling, converting, altering, finishing, cleaning, or any other processing
47 of products where goods so produced or processed are to be sold at retail exclusively on the
48 premises, provided that:
49 (1) An area fully concealed from any street and equal to not more than 20 percent of the
50 area devoted to retail sales shall be so used;
51 (2) Electrical power not to exceed a total of five rated horsepower, and steam pressure not
52 in excess of 60 pounds of pressure per square inch shall be used exclusively;
53 (3) Not more than four employees are engaged in such production or processing.
54 (a) Manufacturing, assembling, converting, altering, finishing, cleaning, cooking, baking,
55 or any other processing of products where goods so produced or processed are to be sold at
56 retail on the premises or online and where the size of the establishment exceeds 5,000
57 square feet in floor area.
58
59 13.3 Uses prohibited. The following uses are prohibited:
60
61 (a) Fuel pumps and motor vehicle storage, sales, or repairs.
62
63 13.4 Enclosed buildings. All permitted uses and all storage accessory thereto, other than offstreet
64 parking, shall be carried on in buildings fully enclosed on all sides, except for outdoor eating areas
65 associated with restaurants, outdoor gathering areas, and outdoor sales areas approved by the city
66 planner or approved as part of the site development plan approval required by article 3, section
67 13.6.
68
69 13.5 Design standards. The following standards shall apply to the site and building development in
70 the central commercial zone (C-2):
71
72 13.51 Façade Articulation. Building facades should incorporate design elements to provide
73 a base, middle, and top of the building to reinforce the pedestrian scale at the street level.
74
75 13.52 Height. For buildings greater than four (4) stories in height, then the upper floors
76 above the fourth story shall step back ten (10) feet on the primary facade. For buildings
77 greater than six (6) stories, then the upper floors above the sixth floor shall step back an
78 additional ten (10) feet on the primary façade. These step backs areas may begin at a lower
79 height than these minimums as part of the building design in order to be compatible with
80 the character of the area.
81
82 13.53 Step back areas. The step back areas should be open to the sky and can be open air
83 balcony spaces or other design architectural features that are not enclosed spaces.
84
85 13.54 Off-street Parking. Off-street parking lots shall not be permitted to be situated
86 between the street line and the primary facade of the principal building. Consideration
87 should be given to locating parking to the side or rear of the building.
88
89 13.55 Screening. Any off-street parking lots provided shall be screened from the street line
90 by buildings, landscaping, or other means. Off-street parking lots shall be screened from
14
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Item 3.
DRAFT Proposed Ordinance #2024-01 - Amending Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 13 Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) and related development provisions of Zoning Ordinance Page 3 of 10
91 adjacent residential zones and residential uses. This screening provision does not apply to
92 adjacent alleys.
93
94 13.5 13.6 Performance standards. All uses are subject to performance standards as set forth in article 5,
95 section 8.1.
96
97 13.6 13.7 Site development plan approval. Site development plan approval in accordance with article 10,
98 section 2 hereof shall be required prior to the issuance of building permits for the erection or
99 enlargement of all structures and prior to the issuance of certificates of occupancy for any change of use.
100
101 BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
102
103 That Appendix B – Zoning, Article 4 Section 4.14 amended by inserting the text indicated in bold, blue
104 font and deleting the text indicated in red strikeout as follows:
105
106 Section 4.14. - [C-1, C-1A, C-2, C-2A zones.]
107 Bulk and parking regulations for neighborhood commercial (C-1), limited commercial (C-1A),
108 central commercial (C-2), and limited commercial (C-2A) zones are as follows:
109
C-1 C-1A C-2 C-2A
Minimum required:
Lot area (sq. ft.) 2,500
Lot width (ft.) 25
Lot depth (ft.) 70 100
Front yard (ft.) 25 25 0 15
Side yard (ft.) None required, None required, None required, but None required, but
but 5 feet min. if but 5 feet min. if 5 feet min. if 5 feet min. if
provided provided provided provided
Rear yard (ft.) 15 15 20 above ground 20 above ground
floor. At ground floor. At ground
floor, 5 ft. required floor, 5 ft. required
Side or rear yards 15 15 15 25
which adjoin a
residential zone (ft.)
Off-street parking
Per 300 sq. ft. 1
floor area or
Per employee 1
(whichever is greater)
Maximum permitted:
Building height
Stories 2 2 6 10 6
Feet 30 30 75 125 75
Floor area ratio 1.0 1.5 4.0 5.0 4.0
15
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Item 3.
DRAFT Proposed Ordinance #2024-01 - Amending Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 13 Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) and related development provisions of Zoning Ordinance Page 4 of 10
110
111 BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
112
113 That Appendix B – Zoning, Article 5 Section 6 amended by inserting the text indicated in bold, blue
114 font and deleting the text indicated in red strikeout as follows:
115
116 Section 6. - Dumpsters for trash and recycling.
117
118 6.1 Location of trash receptacles. In all zones of the City of Dover (except in residential zones where
119 standard City of Dover 90-gallon trash containers are used), all trash receptacles and bulk recycling
120 bins (excluding publicly operated recycling drop off centers), which shall be referred to collectively as
121 "dumpsters" in this ordinance, are to be situated in order to allow safe and efficient access by trash
122 collection vehicles, and shall be screened from public view. All dumpsters must comply with the
123 following regulations:
124 6.11 Location and screening required. All dumpsters must be located in approved locations on the
125 lot. Dumpsters must be placed on hard, paved, dust-free surfaces and may not be placed in designated
126 parking spaces, fire lanes, or access ways. Outside storage of trash, cardboard, or shipping pallets is
127 prohibited. A dumpster enclosure is required to screen the dumpster from view whenever these units
128 are situated so that they will be visible from any public right-of-way or from an adjacent property.
129 6.12 Minimum dumpsters required.
130
Use Dumpsters Required
Restaurant Two required for the first 3,000 square feet of gross building area; one
required for each additional 3,000 square feet of gross building area or
fraction thereof
Shopping center (excluding Two required for the first three stores; one required for each store
supermarkets or anchor tenants) thereafter
Supermarkets & anchor tenants Two required in addition to requirements for shopping center
in shopping centers
Office & retail less than 50,000 Two required for the first 16,000 square feet of gross floor area; one
square feet required for each additional 16,000 square feet of gross floor area or
fraction thereof
Office & retail greater than Two required for the first 50,000 square feet of gross floor area; one
50,000 square feet required for each additional 24,000 square feet of gross floor area or
fraction thereof
Industrial, warehousing & Two required for the first 80,000 square feet of gross building area;
institutional one required for each additional 40,000 square feet of gross building
area or fraction thereof
Apartment complex or Two required for the first 48 apartments; one required for each
Apartment Building with over additional 24 apartments or fraction thereof
10 units
Non-residential uses Two required per property
131
16
Page 17
Item 3.
DRAFT Proposed Ordinance #2024-01 - Amending Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 13 Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) and related development provisions of Zoning Ordinance Page 5 of 10
132 6.13 Selection of trash service. Applicants for site development plan approval shall specify the
133 proposed method of trash collection (side load or front load) at the time of application. A change in
134 the method of collection may require an alteration of the site plan, subject to approval of the city
135 planner or the planning commission.
136 6.14 Maneuvering space. Adequate off-street truck maneuvering space shall be provided on-lot and
137 not within any public street right-of-way or other public lands. Internal site circulation lanes are to be
138 designed with adequate turning radii to accommodate the size and efficient maneuvering of trash
139 collection vehicles.
140 6.15 Minimum dimensions for dumpster enclosures. All dumpster enclosures must be adequate to
141 screen dumpsters from public view. Enclosures for private collection must be no less than seven feet
142 in height. The height of enclosures for City of Dover collection may be no less than five feet high.
143 6.16 Enclosure construction. All dumpster enclosures shall be constructed of durable materials that
144 will withstand the normal use and wear expected in trash removal operations. Whenever a dumpster,
145 in its enclosure, will be visible from a public right-of-way, the appearance of the dumpster enclosures
146 shall complement the architecture of the principal building on the lot, and be constructed with the
147 same or similar exterior materials.
148 6.17 Gates. Gates are required whenever a dumpster, in its enclosure, will be visible from a public
149 right-of-way. Gates must be designed to swing back behind the front of the enclosure and lock in the
150 open position. If City of Dover trash service is provided, it is the responsibility of the property owner
151 or occupant to open and securely lock back the gates to allow for trash pick up. The gates may be
152 opened 12 hours prior to pick up, and must be closed within 12 hours after pick up.
153 6.18 Reduction of dumpster requirement. When a use is required to provide dumpsters as part of site
154 development plan approval, the required number of dumpsters may be reduced under the following
155 circumstances:
156 a) Dumpster pads reserved for future use. An area of the site reserved for a dumpster may be
157 substituted for an actual dumpster. The provided area must be large enough to accommodate a
158 dumpster and must be accessible to trash collection services. The city planner may require that
159 the owner of record of the property provide a dumpster in the reserved location, together with
160 any enclosure required, upon determining there is need for the additional dumpster.
161 b) Trash compactor substitution. Trash compactors may be substituted for ordinary dumpsters
162 at a two to one ratio. The city planner may approve a higher substitution ratio if specifications
163 are provided indicating the machine will achieve a correspondingly higher trash compaction
164 ratio. Trash compactors must meet the same location and screening requirements as other
165 dumpsters. Sites providing trash compactors must still provide separate receptacles for
166 recycling.
167 c) Alternative solutions. Alternative solutions for the storage of and collection methods for
168 trash and recycling receptables may be considered. The city planner or planning
169 commission may authorize alternative solutions.
17
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Item 3.
DRAFT Proposed Ordinance #2024-01 - Amending Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 13 Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) and related development provisions of Zoning Ordinance Page 6 of 10
170 6.2 Location and screening approval required. The locations of new dumpsters on a site and any
171 screening necessary shall be approved through the site development plan approval process, according
172 to the type of review required in article 10 of this appendix.
173 6.3 Unauthorized dumpsters. Any dumpster not previously approved through the site development
174 plan approval process may be required by the city planner to be moved, removed, or screened if said
175 dumpster is a nuisance to neighboring properties by virtue of its current location.
176
177 BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
178
179 That Appendix B – Zoning, Article 6 Section 3.1 amended by inserting the text indicated in bold, blue
180 font and deleting the text indicated in red strikeout as follows:
181
182 Section 3. - Required off-street parking spaces.
183 3.1 Schedule of requirements. Accessory off-street parking spaces, open or enclosed, shall be provided
184 for any lot as specified in Article 4—Zoning Bulk and Parking Regulations, or as specified below for
185 each use in any zone, whichever is greater.
186 (a) Exceptions.
187 i. Where Article 3—District Regulations, specifies a minimum parking requirement, this
188 parking requirement shall prevail.
189 ii. For existing buildings within the C-2 zoning district, the requirements of Article 4, Section
190 4.14—[C-1, C-1A, C-2, C-2A zones zoned], bulk and parking regulations governing the C-2
191 zoning district shall prevail.
192 iii. For new construction within the downtown redevelopment target area, as described in
193 appendix C of the Dover Code of Ordinances, there is no minimum off-street parking
194 requirement based on use. To utilize this exception, a parking strategy statement must be
195 submitted for review as part of the site development plan approval required by appendix
196 B, zoning, article 10, section 2.
197
For: At Least One Parking Space For Each
Places of worship Two hundred (200) square feet of floor area, but not
less than one (1) space for each four (4) seats, where
provided
Libraries Three hundred (300) square feet of floor area
Medical offices—All types Three hundred (300) square feet of floor area
Nursery school or kindergarten Adult attendant, plus one for every 20 children
18
Page 19
Item 3.
DRAFT Proposed Ordinance #2024-01 - Amending Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 13 Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) and related development provisions of Zoning Ordinance Page 7 of 10
For: At Least One Parking Space For Each
Elementary or junior high school Eight (8) seats in main auditorium/cafeteria or
gymnasium
High school, technical school, college or Five (5) seats in main auditorium/cafeteria or
university gymnasium; if none, see Article 4—Zoning, Bulk and
Parking Regulations
Hospitals or sanitariums Three beds
Apartments Two (2) per dwelling unit and one (1) for every two
hundred (200) square feet of office space and 0.25 per
dwelling unit for visitor space
Roominghouses Guestroom
Dormitories Three (3) beds
Eating and drinking places Four (4) seats plus one (1) for every three (3) bar seats
Funeral homes Two (2) employees, plus five (5) spaces for each chapel
Hotels and motels Guestroom, plus one (1) for every 200 square feet of
office space, banquet hall, or meeting areas
Athletic fields, baseball, football or Three (3) seats
boxing stadiums and arenas; race tracks
Golf courses Per employee and four (4) parking spaces for each hole
Golf or baseball driving range One-half (½) stall
Airports Per employee and for each two (2) airplanes in storage
198
199 3.2 Areas computed as parking spaces. Areas which may be computed as open or enclosed off-street
200 parking spaces include any private garage, carport, or other area available for parking, other than a
201 street or driveway. However, a driveway within a required front yard for a one-family or two-family
202 residence may count as one parking space, other than a corner lot as provided in article 5, section 1.3.
203 3.3 Location and ownership of required accessory parking facilities. Required accessory parking
204 spaces, open or enclosed, may be provided upon the same lot as the use to which they are accessory,
205 or elsewhere, provided all spaces therein are located within 150 feet walking distance of such lot. In
19
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Item 3.
DRAFT Proposed Ordinance #2024-01 - Amending Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 13 Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) and related development provisions of Zoning Ordinance Page 8 of 10
206 all cases, such parking spaces shall conform to the regulations of the district in which they are
207 accessory and shall be subject to deed restriction, filed with the city clerk, binding the owner and his
208 heirs and assigns to maintain the required number of spaces available either:
209 (a) Throughout the existence of such use to which they are accessory; or
210 (b) Until such spaces are provided elsewhere.
211 3.4 Size of spaces. The minimum parking space dimensions shall be at least nine (9) feet in width and
212 at least 18 feet in length. Disabled accessible spaces shall meet ADA requirements.
213 3.5 Access. Unobstructed access to and from a street shall be provided. Each drive lane shall have at
214 least ten feet of width so that one-way drives have at least ten feet of width and that two-directional
215 drives have two lanes of ten feet each. Unless otherwise specified within this section, access shall be
216 provided by at least one two-directional drive lane or two one-directional drive lanes.
217 3.6 Drainage and surfacing.
218 (a) All open permanent parking areas and access drives shall be properly drained and all such
219 areas shall be provided with paved asphalt, concrete or other hard, paved, dust-free surface.
220 (b) All permanent parking areas shall be enclosed with upright concrete curbing at least six
221 inches in height. The city planner may relax this requirement for a portion of a parking area
222 when there is a demonstrated need to convey stormwater to a proposed or approved stormwater
223 management area. Curbing shall not be required for loading areas, handicapped access and for
224 parking spaces accessory to a one-family or two-family residence (see also article 6, section
225 5.3).
226 3.7 Joint facilities. Required parking spaces, open or enclosed, may be provided in spaces designed to
227 serve, jointly, two or more establishments, whether or not located on the same lot, provided that the
228 number of required spaces in such joint facilities shall be not less than the total required for all such
229 establishments.
230 3.8 Combined spaces. When any lot contains two or more uses having different parking requirements,
231 the parking requirements for each use shall apply to the extent of that use. Where it can be
232 conclusively demonstrated that one or more such uses will be generating a demand for parking spaces
233 primarily during periods when the other use or uses is not or are not in operation, the planning
234 commission may reduce the total parking spaces required for that use with the least requirement.
235 (a) Campus Parking Plan. When a new building or building addition is made to a campus
236 involving multiple buildings under common ownership where one or more of the uses will be
237 generating demand for parking when the other use or uses are not in operation, the applicant
238 shall present a campus parking plan as a part of the site development plan that includes an
239 analysis of the parking needs based on the provisions of section 3.8 of this article.
240 3.9 Adjustments to parking requirements. The planning commission or city planner, according to the
241 type of plan review required by appendix B, zoning, article 10, planning commission, may reduce, in
242 an amount not to exceed 50 percent, the number of parking spaces required when, in the opinion of the
20
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Item 3.
DRAFT Proposed Ordinance #2024-01 - Amending Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 13 Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) and related development provisions of Zoning Ordinance Page 9 of 10
243 commission, it has been demonstrated that the use is adequately served by transportation and parking
244 alternatives, including but not limited to:
245 (a) Site plan proposals within the downtown redevelopment target area, as described in
246 appendix C of the Dover Code of Ordinances, may be granted a 20 percent reduction in the
247 amount of off-street parking normally required, due to the availability of mass transit,
248 municipal parking and existing pedestrian amenities.
249 (b) Designated off-street parking reserved for car pools, van pools, and bicycle parking
250 facilities, in accordance with the following schedule:
251 (1) Each carpool space shall be equivalent to three standard parking spaces.
252 (2) Each vanpool space shall be equivalent to five standard parking spaces.
253 (3) Every group of five bicycle parking spaces shall be equivalent to one standard
254 parking space.
255 (c) Employer participation in a traffic-mitigation plan approved by the Delaware Department
256 of Transportation.
257 (d) Cash-in-lieu of parking contributions toward the capital construction or improvement of
258 municipal parking facilities that are proposed. The cash-in-lieu of parking contribution shall be
259 in a monetary amount equivalent to the estimated cost of construction for the number of
260 standard surface parking spaces for which the reduction is sought. To take advantage of this
261 option, the developer shall submit to the city engineer a cost estimate for the parking requested
262 to be waived. The city engineer shall examine the estimate for accuracy in current prevailing
263 costs of construction at the time of proposal and shall report to the planning commission
264 his/her findings.
265 (e) Proposals involving superior urban design which contribute to an enhanced pedestrian
266 environment and which include such features as pedestrian plazas and pocket-parks,
267 pedestrian-way connections with existing sidewalk systems and community facilities, park
268 benches and other street furniture, mass transit connections and shelters, and landscaping and
269 shade tree plantings.
270 In all areas, except the downtown redevelopment target area, the planning commission or city planner,
271 according to the type of plan review required by appendix B, zoning, article 10, planning commission,
272 may require the development plans to have an area of open space designated where parking could be
273 constructed less than or equal to the number being reduced. In such cases the plan shall bear a note
274 which explains that the petitioner, in accepting a parking reduction, agrees to construct such additional
275 parking as is otherwise required under the provisions of this appendix, if the planning commission,
276 after a hearing, determines that the reasons for granting said reduction no longer exist. In all such
277 instances where the planning commission determines that the reasons for granting a reduction no
278 longer exist, the owner of record for the subject property for which a reduction was previously granted
279 must construct the parking required to meet the regulations of the city during the next construction
280 season.
21
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Item 3.
DRAFT Proposed Ordinance #2024-01 - Amending Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 13 Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) and related development provisions of Zoning Ordinance Page 10 of 10
281 3.10 Bicycle parking. Bicycle parking shall be provided for parking spaces at a rate of one bicycle
282 parking space for every 20 parking spaces or a fraction thereof. The planning commission may waive
283 the requirement for the bicycle parking if it is demonstrated that bicycle parking would not be
284 appropriate for safety reasons or due to the nature of the use of the site.
285
286 BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
287
288 That Appendix B – Zoning, Article 12 – Definitions be amended by inserting the text indicated in bold,
289 blue font in appropriate alphabetical order:
290
291 Live-work unit: A first floor business use, such as an office, studio, shop, café, service
292 establishment, personal service establishment, or other permitted use in combination with an
293 office and a dwelling unit located above such place of business. A person or persons other than the
294 proprietor of the first floor business may occupy the dwelling unit portion of a Live-work unit.
295
296
297
298 ADOPTED: *
299
300
301 SYNOPSIS
302 This is a series of text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance provisions of the C-2 (Central Commercial
303 Zone) and related development provisions. These amendments revise the permitted uses and the
304 conditional uses, add design standards, and revise the bulk standards for height and floor area ratio
305 (FAR) of the C-2 (Central Commercial Zone). There are proposed revisions to other sections of the
306 Zoning Ordinance related to parking requirements and Dumpsters. These text amendments are offered
307 for consideration as part of the implementation of the Transforming Downtown Dover: Capital City
308 2030 (Transforming Downtown Dover) Plan.
309
310 (SPONSORS: *) (INITIATION BY THE CITY PLANNER)
311
312
313 Actions History:
314 1/9/2024 - Introduced at Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative Finance, and Administration
315 Committee
316
22
Page 23
Item 4.
Delaware Preservation Fund
Small Grants Program Guidelines
Applications are now open for the 2024 grants round. The closing date for
applications is Friday, February 9, 2024. The completed form, along with supporting
materials, should be emailed HERE.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Delaware Preservation Fund has awarded more
than 300 small grants throughout Delaware. The program is especially directed toward
applicants who would not normally qualify for other forms of financial assistance.
Corporations, partnerships, individuals, non-profit and religious organizations, and
governmental entities within Delaware are all eligible to receive grants.
The Fund’s grants have historically targeted projects of a “bricks and mortar” nature.
Under new guidelines, the DPF is also accepting applications for non-capital
projects, including restoration planning projects, architectural/engineering studies, and
contracting professional consultants to prepare National Register or local district
nominations.
If you have any questions after reading the guidelines below, please contact the
Delaware Preservation Fund’s program managers by EMAIL or (302) 831-8097.
Available funding
Most grants typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. The maximum grant is
$10,000. For grant requests more than $5,000, the DPF must be satisfied the proposal
and resource is of major significance; that the resource will be at serious risk if the work
is not carried out; that the likely benefits well exceed the anticipated costs; and/or that
the work is unlikely to take place without the Fund’s assistance. Because funds are
limited, projects are selected for their ability to make a significant difference for the small
investment offered. As a rule, the DPF requires a minimum 50% match from the
applicant. In-kind contributions may be credited towards the match.
Eligibility
Historic resources located in Delaware are eligible for a grant if they are either:
on or determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places
a contributing element to a National Register Historic District, or
determined by a county or local government to be locally significant
Applications for the following project types will be accepted:
Capital projects involving restoration of historic buildings and built elements,
as well as historic objects such as ships and statuary.
23
Page 24
Item 4.
Restoration planning, architectural/engineering studies (maximum grant
$10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Documentation projects:
Preparation of new, individual nominations for listing on the National Register
(maximum grant $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Preparation of nominations for new or amended National Register historic
districts (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Historic district amendments would include boundary expansions and the
addition of resources through a particular period of significance, as well as
documentation of a more robust nature.
Proposals for inclusion within a new or expanded local historic district
(maximum grant of $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Archaeological documentation (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project
cost, whichever is less).
Plaques and signage if they are of an interpretive nature.
Ineligible Proposals:
Certain categories of work are precluded because they fall outside the concept of
preservation, as defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, including
reconstruction of the majority of an historic structure, a new building recreated to look
historic, partial demolition and facade retention only. The moving of historic structures
from their historic location is also precluded by these standards, but there may be
circumstances where allowances may be made.
The following specific items are ineligible for grant funding:
Construction of new buildings or additions
Acquisition of properties
Acquisition of collections
Conservation or display of collections
Lobbying or advocacy activities
Direct or indirect administrative costs
Application requirements
The application must include:
A detailed project description, including a scope of work
A qualified contractor proposal with estimates, broken down as needed
An outline as to how the relevant Secretary of the Interior Standards will be
met
24
Page 25
Item 4.
Good quality photos of the building/resource including adequate photos of
the area requiring attention
Eligibility documentation
For National Register listed historic properties, please provide a copy of the
listing
For locally designated resources, provide a copy of local government
documentation
For resources not listed on the National Register or locally, submit a letter of
support or determination of eligibility letter from a qualified architectural
historian or archaeologist, the State Historic Preservation Office, a local
preservation planner (city, town or county), or the University of Delaware
Center for Historic Architecture and Design, attesting to the eligibility of the
resource.
Assessment criteria
The following criteria are applied in the assessment of applications. Considerations are
not limited to these criteria, and not all criteria need to be met. The Board will weigh
these factors regarding each individual case. All decisions are at its absolute discretion.
Availability of funds
The relative historic significance of the resource
The degree to which the resource is threatened with loss, compromise, or
deterioration
The geographical distribution of applications across the State
The extent of benefit to the surrounding neighborhood or community
The extent of matching funds including the applicant’s own resources.
Preference will always be given to first-time applicants. The DPF will consider any
previous grant(s) awarded to the applicant, what the grant was for, and how long ago it
was awarded.
The Fund strives to disperse grant money evenly throughout the State of Delaware. An
application of otherwise lesser merit may be given preference if it comes from a location
that is underrepresented in applications for that particular year.
A grant may be awarded for work already completed within the previous twelve months
as applicants are encouraged to expedite urgent work, rather than delay important
preventative or remedial work. Photographs must be provided showing both the “before”
and “after” conditions.
Conditions
All grants are subject to conditions, which applicants must agree to prior to accepting
the grant funds.
25
Page 26
Item 4.
Any construction work funded, all or in part with DPF funds, must meet the Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. Copies of the Standards
are available on the National Park Service website.
Grants are issued in the form of reimbursements once work is completed, and after
proof of expenditure is submitted to the DPF, together with photographs of the finished
work and a brief written report. The Fund must be satisfied that the work meets the
Secretary of the Interior’s standards, and all local government requirements.
If awarded a grant from the Delaware Preservation Fund, the applicant agrees to
complete the project within a year of grant notification. Grants allow a twelve-month
period for work to be completed, but may be extended for an additional twelve months if
good cause is shown. A grant will automatically lapse if not extended, and an extended
grant will automatically expire after two years with no further extension possible.
Grant money is not automatically transferable. If the ownership of a property changes,
the new owner must apply to have the grant transferred to their name.
Preservation Delaware, Inc (PDI) and the Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc (DPF)
reserve the right to publicize the names and locations of the grant recipients, as well as
publicize photographs of the properties where work has been funded.
All grant application properties are subject to scheduled visits by employees or Board
members of PDI or DPF.
Applications are due Friday, February 9, 2024. Completed forms with supporting
photos and materials should be emailed HERE.
26
Page 27
Item 4.
Delaware Preservation Fund
Small Grants Program Guidelines
Applications are now open for the 2024 grants round. The closing date for
applications is Friday, February 9, 2024. The completed form, along with supporting
materials, should be emailed HERE.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Delaware Preservation Fund has awarded more
than 300 small grants throughout Delaware. The program is especially directed toward
applicants who would not normally qualify for other forms of financial assistance.
Corporations, partnerships, individuals, non-profit and religious organizations, and
governmental entities within Delaware are all eligible to receive grants.
The Fund’s grants have historically targeted projects of a “bricks and mortar” nature.
Under new guidelines, the DPF is also accepting applications for non-capital
projects, including restoration planning projects, architectural/engineering studies, and
contracting professional consultants to prepare National Register or local district
nominations.
If you have any questions after reading the guidelines below, please contact the
Delaware Preservation Fund’s program managers by EMAIL or (302) 831-8097.
Available funding
Most grants typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. The maximum grant is
$10,000. For grant requests more than $5,000, the DPF must be satisfied the proposal
and resource is of major significance; that the resource will be at serious risk if the work
is not carried out; that the likely benefits well exceed the anticipated costs; and/or that
the work is unlikely to take place without the Fund’s assistance. Because funds are
limited, projects are selected for their ability to make a significant difference for the small
investment offered. As a rule, the DPF requires a minimum 50% match from the
applicant. In-kind contributions may be credited towards the match.
Eligibility
Historic resources located in Delaware are eligible for a grant if they are either:
on or determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places
a contributing element to a National Register Historic District, or
determined by a county or local government to be locally significant
Applications for the following project types will be accepted:
Capital projects involving restoration of historic buildings and built elements,
as well as historic objects such as ships and statuary.
27
Page 28
Item 4.
Restoration planning, architectural/engineering studies (maximum grant
$10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Documentation projects:
Preparation of new, individual nominations for listing on the National Register
(maximum grant $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Preparation of nominations for new or amended National Register historic
districts (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Historic district amendments would include boundary expansions and the
addition of resources through a particular period of significance, as well as
documentation of a more robust nature.
Proposals for inclusion within a new or expanded local historic district
(maximum grant of $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Archaeological documentation (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project
cost, whichever is less).
Plaques and signage if they are of an interpretive nature.
Ineligible Proposals:
Certain categories of work are precluded because they fall outside the concept of
preservation, as defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, including
reconstruction of the majority of an historic structure, a new building recreated to look
historic, partial demolition and facade retention only. The moving of historic structures
from their historic location is also precluded by these standards, but there may be
circumstances where allowances may be made.
The following specific items are ineligible for grant funding:
Construction of new buildings or additions
Acquisition of properties
Acquisition of collections
Conservation or display of collections
Lobbying or advocacy activities
Direct or indirect administrative costs
Application requirements
The application must include:
A detailed project description, including a scope of work
A qualified contractor proposal with estimates, broken down as needed
An outline as to how the relevant Secretary of the Interior Standards will be
met
28
Page 29
Item 4.
Good quality photos of the building/resource including adequate photos of
the area requiring attention
Eligibility documentation
For National Register listed historic properties, please provide a copy of the
listing
For locally designated resources, provide a copy of local government
documentation
For resources not listed on the National Register or locally, submit a letter of
support or determination of eligibility letter from a qualified architectural
historian or archaeologist, the State Historic Preservation Office, a local
preservation planner (city, town or county), or the University of Delaware
Center for Historic Architecture and Design, attesting to the eligibility of the
resource.
Assessment criteria
The following criteria are applied in the assessment of applications. Considerations are
not limited to these criteria, and not all criteria need to be met. The Board will weigh
these factors regarding each individual case. All decisions are at its absolute discretion.
Availability of funds
The relative historic significance of the resource
The degree to which the resource is threatened with loss, compromise, or
deterioration
The geographical distribution of applications across the State
The extent of benefit to the surrounding neighborhood or community
The extent of matching funds including the applicant’s own resources.
Preference will always be given to first-time applicants. The DPF will consider any
previous grant(s) awarded to the applicant, what the grant was for, and how long ago it
was awarded.
The Fund strives to disperse grant money evenly throughout the State of Delaware. An
application of otherwise lesser merit may be given preference if it comes from a location
that is underrepresented in applications for that particular year.
A grant may be awarded for work already completed within the previous twelve months
as applicants are encouraged to expedite urgent work, rather than delay important
preventative or remedial work. Photographs must be provided showing both the “before”
and “after” conditions.
Conditions
All grants are subject to conditions, which applicants must agree to prior to accepting
the grant funds.
29
Page 30
Item 4.
Any construction work funded, all or in part with DPF funds, must meet the Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. Copies of the Standards
are available on the National Park Service website.
Grants are issued in the form of reimbursements once work is completed, and after
proof of expenditure is submitted to the DPF, together with photographs of the finished
work and a brief written report. The Fund must be satisfied that the work meets the
Secretary of the Interior’s standards, and all local government requirements.
If awarded a grant from the Delaware Preservation Fund, the applicant agrees to
complete the project within a year of grant notification. Grants allow a twelve-month
period for work to be completed, but may be extended for an additional twelve months if
good cause is shown. A grant will automatically lapse if not extended, and an extended
grant will automatically expire after two years with no further extension possible.
Grant money is not automatically transferable. If the ownership of a property changes,
the new owner must apply to have the grant transferred to their name.
Preservation Delaware, Inc (PDI) and the Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc (DPF)
reserve the right to publicize the names and locations of the grant recipients, as well as
publicize photographs of the properties where work has been funded.
All grant application properties are subject to scheduled visits by employees or Board
members of PDI or DPF.
Applications are due Friday, February 9, 2024. Completed forms with supporting
photos and materials should be emailed HERE.
30
Page 31
Item 4.
Delaware Preservation Fund
Small Grants Program Guidelines
Applications are now open for the 2024 grants round. The closing date for
applications is Friday, February 9, 2024. The completed form, along with supporting
materials, should be emailed HERE.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Delaware Preservation Fund has awarded more
than 300 small grants throughout Delaware. The program is especially directed toward
applicants who would not normally qualify for other forms of financial assistance.
Corporations, partnerships, individuals, non-profit and religious organizations, and
governmental entities within Delaware are all eligible to receive grants.
The Fund’s grants have historically targeted projects of a “bricks and mortar” nature.
Under new guidelines, the DPF is also accepting applications for non-capital
projects, including restoration planning projects, architectural/engineering studies, and
contracting professional consultants to prepare National Register or local district
nominations.
If you have any questions after reading the guidelines below, please contact the
Delaware Preservation Fund’s program managers by EMAIL or (302) 831-8097.
Available funding
Most grants typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. The maximum grant is
$10,000. For grant requests more than $5,000, the DPF must be satisfied the proposal
and resource is of major significance; that the resource will be at serious risk if the work
is not carried out; that the likely benefits well exceed the anticipated costs; and/or that
the work is unlikely to take place without the Fund’s assistance. Because funds are
limited, projects are selected for their ability to make a significant difference for the small
investment offered. As a rule, the DPF requires a minimum 50% match from the
applicant. In-kind contributions may be credited towards the match.
Eligibility
Historic resources located in Delaware are eligible for a grant if they are either:
on or determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places
a contributing element to a National Register Historic District, or
determined by a county or local government to be locally significant
Applications for the following project types will be accepted:
Capital projects involving restoration of historic buildings and built elements,
as well as historic objects such as ships and statuary.
31
Page 32
Item 4.
Restoration planning, architectural/engineering studies (maximum grant
$10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Documentation projects:
Preparation of new, individual nominations for listing on the National Register
(maximum grant $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Preparation of nominations for new or amended National Register historic
districts (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Historic district amendments would include boundary expansions and the
addition of resources through a particular period of significance, as well as
documentation of a more robust nature.
Proposals for inclusion within a new or expanded local historic district
(maximum grant of $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Archaeological documentation (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project
cost, whichever is less).
Plaques and signage if they are of an interpretive nature.
Ineligible Proposals:
Certain categories of work are precluded because they fall outside the concept of
preservation, as defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, including
reconstruction of the majority of an historic structure, a new building recreated to look
historic, partial demolition and facade retention only. The moving of historic structures
from their historic location is also precluded by these standards, but there may be
circumstances where allowances may be made.
The following specific items are ineligible for grant funding:
Construction of new buildings or additions
Acquisition of properties
Acquisition of collections
Conservation or display of collections
Lobbying or advocacy activities
Direct or indirect administrative costs
Application requirements
The application must include:
A detailed project description, including a scope of work
A qualified contractor proposal with estimates, broken down as needed
An outline as to how the relevant Secretary of the Interior Standards will be
met
32
Page 33
Item 4.
Good quality photos of the building/resource including adequate photos of
the area requiring attention
Eligibility documentation
For National Register listed historic properties, please provide a copy of the
listing
For locally designated resources, provide a copy of local government
documentation
For resources not listed on the National Register or locally, submit a letter of
support or determination of eligibility letter from a qualified architectural
historian or archaeologist, the State Historic Preservation Office, a local
preservation planner (city, town or county), or the University of Delaware
Center for Historic Architecture and Design, attesting to the eligibility of the
resource.
Assessment criteria
The following criteria are applied in the assessment of applications. Considerations are
not limited to these criteria, and not all criteria need to be met. The Board will weigh
these factors regarding each individual case. All decisions are at its absolute discretion.
Availability of funds
The relative historic significance of the resource
The degree to which the resource is threatened with loss, compromise, or
deterioration
The geographical distribution of applications across the State
The extent of benefit to the surrounding neighborhood or community
The extent of matching funds including the applicant’s own resources.
Preference will always be given to first-time applicants. The DPF will consider any
previous grant(s) awarded to the applicant, what the grant was for, and how long ago it
was awarded.
The Fund strives to disperse grant money evenly throughout the State of Delaware. An
application of otherwise lesser merit may be given preference if it comes from a location
that is underrepresented in applications for that particular year.
A grant may be awarded for work already completed within the previous twelve months
as applicants are encouraged to expedite urgent work, rather than delay important
preventative or remedial work. Photographs must be provided showing both the “before”
and “after” conditions.
Conditions
All grants are subject to conditions, which applicants must agree to prior to accepting
the grant funds.
33
Page 34
Item 4.
Any construction work funded, all or in part with DPF funds, must meet the Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. Copies of the Standards
are available on the National Park Service website.
Grants are issued in the form of reimbursements once work is completed, and after
proof of expenditure is submitted to the DPF, together with photographs of the finished
work and a brief written report. The Fund must be satisfied that the work meets the
Secretary of the Interior’s standards, and all local government requirements.
If awarded a grant from the Delaware Preservation Fund, the applicant agrees to
complete the project within a year of grant notification. Grants allow a twelve-month
period for work to be completed, but may be extended for an additional twelve months if
good cause is shown. A grant will automatically lapse if not extended, and an extended
grant will automatically expire after two years with no further extension possible.
Grant money is not automatically transferable. If the ownership of a property changes,
the new owner must apply to have the grant transferred to their name.
Preservation Delaware, Inc (PDI) and the Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc (DPF)
reserve the right to publicize the names and locations of the grant recipients, as well as
publicize photographs of the properties where work has been funded.
All grant application properties are subject to scheduled visits by employees or Board
members of PDI or DPF.
Applications are due Friday, February 9, 2024. Completed forms with supporting
photos and materials should be emailed HERE.
34
Page 35
Item 4.
Delaware Preservation Fund
Small Grants Program Guidelines
Applications are now open for the 2024 grants round. The closing date for
applications is Friday, February 9, 2024. The completed form, along with supporting
materials, should be emailed HERE.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Delaware Preservation Fund has awarded more
than 300 small grants throughout Delaware. The program is especially directed toward
applicants who would not normally qualify for other forms of financial assistance.
Corporations, partnerships, individuals, non-profit and religious organizations, and
governmental entities within Delaware are all eligible to receive grants.
The Fund’s grants have historically targeted projects of a “bricks and mortar” nature.
Under new guidelines, the DPF is also accepting applications for non-capital
projects, including restoration planning projects, architectural/engineering studies, and
contracting professional consultants to prepare National Register or local district
nominations.
If you have any questions after reading the guidelines below, please contact the
Delaware Preservation Fund’s program managers by EMAIL or (302) 831-8097.
Available funding
Most grants typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. The maximum grant is
$10,000. For grant requests more than $5,000, the DPF must be satisfied the proposal
and resource is of major significance; that the resource will be at serious risk if the work
is not carried out; that the likely benefits well exceed the anticipated costs; and/or that
the work is unlikely to take place without the Fund’s assistance. Because funds are
limited, projects are selected for their ability to make a significant difference for the small
investment offered. As a rule, the DPF requires a minimum 50% match from the
applicant. In-kind contributions may be credited towards the match.
Eligibility
Historic resources located in Delaware are eligible for a grant if they are either:
on or determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places
a contributing element to a National Register Historic District, or
determined by a county or local government to be locally significant
Applications for the following project types will be accepted:
Capital projects involving restoration of historic buildings and built elements,
as well as historic objects such as ships and statuary.
35
Page 36
Item 4.
Restoration planning, architectural/engineering studies (maximum grant
$10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Documentation projects:
Preparation of new, individual nominations for listing on the National Register
(maximum grant $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Preparation of nominations for new or amended National Register historic
districts (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Historic district amendments would include boundary expansions and the
addition of resources through a particular period of significance, as well as
documentation of a more robust nature.
Proposals for inclusion within a new or expanded local historic district
(maximum grant of $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Archaeological documentation (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project
cost, whichever is less).
Plaques and signage if they are of an interpretive nature.
Ineligible Proposals:
Certain categories of work are precluded because they fall outside the concept of
preservation, as defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, including
reconstruction of the majority of an historic structure, a new building recreated to look
historic, partial demolition and facade retention only. The moving of historic structures
from their historic location is also precluded by these standards, but there may be
circumstances where allowances may be made.
The following specific items are ineligible for grant funding:
Construction of new buildings or additions
Acquisition of properties
Acquisition of collections
Conservation or display of collections
Lobbying or advocacy activities
Direct or indirect administrative costs
Application requirements
The application must include:
A detailed project description, including a scope of work
A qualified contractor proposal with estimates, broken down as needed
An outline as to how the relevant Secretary of the Interior Standards will be
met
36
Page 37
Item 4.
Good quality photos of the building/resource including adequate photos of
the area requiring attention
Eligibility documentation
For National Register listed historic properties, please provide a copy of the
listing
For locally designated resources, provide a copy of local government
documentation
For resources not listed on the National Register or locally, submit a letter of
support or determination of eligibility letter from a qualified architectural
historian or archaeologist, the State Historic Preservation Office, a local
preservation planner (city, town or county), or the University of Delaware
Center for Historic Architecture and Design, attesting to the eligibility of the
resource.
Assessment criteria
The following criteria are applied in the assessment of applications. Considerations are
not limited to these criteria, and not all criteria need to be met. The Board will weigh
these factors regarding each individual case. All decisions are at its absolute discretion.
Availability of funds
The relative historic significance of the resource
The degree to which the resource is threatened with loss, compromise, or
deterioration
The geographical distribution of applications across the State
The extent of benefit to the surrounding neighborhood or community
The extent of matching funds including the applicant’s own resources.
Preference will always be given to first-time applicants. The DPF will consider any
previous grant(s) awarded to the applicant, what the grant was for, and how long ago it
was awarded.
The Fund strives to disperse grant money evenly throughout the State of Delaware. An
application of otherwise lesser merit may be given preference if it comes from a location
that is underrepresented in applications for that particular year.
A grant may be awarded for work already completed within the previous twelve months
as applicants are encouraged to expedite urgent work, rather than delay important
preventative or remedial work. Photographs must be provided showing both the “before”
and “after” conditions.
Conditions
All grants are subject to conditions, which applicants must agree to prior to accepting
the grant funds.
37
Page 38
Item 4.
Any construction work funded, all or in part with DPF funds, must meet the Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. Copies of the Standards
are available on the National Park Service website.
Grants are issued in the form of reimbursements once work is completed, and after
proof of expenditure is submitted to the DPF, together with photographs of the finished
work and a brief written report. The Fund must be satisfied that the work meets the
Secretary of the Interior’s standards, and all local government requirements.
If awarded a grant from the Delaware Preservation Fund, the applicant agrees to
complete the project within a year of grant notification. Grants allow a twelve-month
period for work to be completed, but may be extended for an additional twelve months if
good cause is shown. A grant will automatically lapse if not extended, and an extended
grant will automatically expire after two years with no further extension possible.
Grant money is not automatically transferable. If the ownership of a property changes,
the new owner must apply to have the grant transferred to their name.
Preservation Delaware, Inc (PDI) and the Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc (DPF)
reserve the right to publicize the names and locations of the grant recipients, as well as
publicize photographs of the properties where work has been funded.
All grant application properties are subject to scheduled visits by employees or Board
members of PDI or DPF.
Applications are due Friday, February 9, 2024. Completed forms with supporting
photos and materials should be emailed HERE.
38
Page 39
Item 4.
Delaware Preservation Fund
Small Grants Program Guidelines
Applications are now open for the 2024 grants round. The closing date for
applications is Friday, February 9, 2024. The completed form, along with supporting
materials, should be emailed HERE.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Delaware Preservation Fund has awarded more
than 300 small grants throughout Delaware. The program is especially directed toward
applicants who would not normally qualify for other forms of financial assistance.
Corporations, partnerships, individuals, non-profit and religious organizations, and
governmental entities within Delaware are all eligible to receive grants.
The Fund’s grants have historically targeted projects of a “bricks and mortar” nature.
Under new guidelines, the DPF is also accepting applications for non-capital
projects, including restoration planning projects, architectural/engineering studies, and
contracting professional consultants to prepare National Register or local district
nominations.
If you have any questions after reading the guidelines below, please contact the
Delaware Preservation Fund’s program managers by EMAIL or (302) 831-8097.
Available funding
Most grants typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. The maximum grant is
$10,000. For grant requests more than $5,000, the DPF must be satisfied the proposal
and resource is of major significance; that the resource will be at serious risk if the work
is not carried out; that the likely benefits well exceed the anticipated costs; and/or that
the work is unlikely to take place without the Fund’s assistance. Because funds are
limited, projects are selected for their ability to make a significant difference for the small
investment offered. As a rule, the DPF requires a minimum 50% match from the
applicant. In-kind contributions may be credited towards the match.
Eligibility
Historic resources located in Delaware are eligible for a grant if they are either:
on or determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places
a contributing element to a National Register Historic District, or
determined by a county or local government to be locally significant
Applications for the following project types will be accepted:
Capital projects involving restoration of historic buildings and built elements,
as well as historic objects such as ships and statuary.
39
Page 40
Item 4.
Restoration planning, architectural/engineering studies (maximum grant
$10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Documentation projects:
Preparation of new, individual nominations for listing on the National Register
(maximum grant $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Preparation of nominations for new or amended National Register historic
districts (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Historic district amendments would include boundary expansions and the
addition of resources through a particular period of significance, as well as
documentation of a more robust nature.
Proposals for inclusion within a new or expanded local historic district
(maximum grant of $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Archaeological documentation (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project
cost, whichever is less).
Plaques and signage if they are of an interpretive nature.
Ineligible Proposals:
Certain categories of work are precluded because they fall outside the concept of
preservation, as defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, including
reconstruction of the majority of an historic structure, a new building recreated to look
historic, partial demolition and facade retention only. The moving of historic structures
from their historic location is also precluded by these standards, but there may be
circumstances where allowances may be made.
The following specific items are ineligible for grant funding:
Construction of new buildings or additions
Acquisition of properties
Acquisition of collections
Conservation or display of collections
Lobbying or advocacy activities
Direct or indirect administrative costs
Application requirements
The application must include:
A detailed project description, including a scope of work
A qualified contractor proposal with estimates, broken down as needed
An outline as to how the relevant Secretary of the Interior Standards will be
met
40
Page 41
Item 4.
Good quality photos of the building/resource including adequate photos of
the area requiring attention
Eligibility documentation
For National Register listed historic properties, please provide a copy of the
listing
For locally designated resources, provide a copy of local government
documentation
For resources not listed on the National Register or locally, submit a letter of
support or determination of eligibility letter from a qualified architectural
historian or archaeologist, the State Historic Preservation Office, a local
preservation planner (city, town or county), or the University of Delaware
Center for Historic Architecture and Design, attesting to the eligibility of the
resource.
Assessment criteria
The following criteria are applied in the assessment of applications. Considerations are
not limited to these criteria, and not all criteria need to be met. The Board will weigh
these factors regarding each individual case. All decisions are at its absolute discretion.
Availability of funds
The relative historic significance of the resource
The degree to which the resource is threatened with loss, compromise, or
deterioration
The geographical distribution of applications across the State
The extent of benefit to the surrounding neighborhood or community
The extent of matching funds including the applicant’s own resources.
Preference will always be given to first-time applicants. The DPF will consider any
previous grant(s) awarded to the applicant, what the grant was for, and how long ago it
was awarded.
The Fund strives to disperse grant money evenly throughout the State of Delaware. An
application of otherwise lesser merit may be given preference if it comes from a location
that is underrepresented in applications for that particular year.
A grant may be awarded for work already completed within the previous twelve months
as applicants are encouraged to expedite urgent work, rather than delay important
preventative or remedial work. Photographs must be provided showing both the “before”
and “after” conditions.
Conditions
All grants are subject to conditions, which applicants must agree to prior to accepting
the grant funds.
41
Page 42
Item 4.
Any construction work funded, all or in part with DPF funds, must meet the Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. Copies of the Standards
are available on the National Park Service website.
Grants are issued in the form of reimbursements once work is completed, and after
proof of expenditure is submitted to the DPF, together with photographs of the finished
work and a brief written report. The Fund must be satisfied that the work meets the
Secretary of the Interior’s standards, and all local government requirements.
If awarded a grant from the Delaware Preservation Fund, the applicant agrees to
complete the project within a year of grant notification. Grants allow a twelve-month
period for work to be completed, but may be extended for an additional twelve months if
good cause is shown. A grant will automatically lapse if not extended, and an extended
grant will automatically expire after two years with no further extension possible.
Grant money is not automatically transferable. If the ownership of a property changes,
the new owner must apply to have the grant transferred to their name.
Preservation Delaware, Inc (PDI) and the Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc (DPF)
reserve the right to publicize the names and locations of the grant recipients, as well as
publicize photographs of the properties where work has been funded.
All grant application properties are subject to scheduled visits by employees or Board
members of PDI or DPF.
Applications are due Friday, February 9, 2024. Completed forms with supporting
photos and materials should be emailed HERE.
42
Page 43
Item 4.
Delaware Preservation Fund
Small Grants Program Guidelines
Applications are now open for the 2024 grants round. The closing date for
applications is Friday, February 9, 2024. The completed form, along with supporting
materials, should be emailed HERE.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Delaware Preservation Fund has awarded more
than 300 small grants throughout Delaware. The program is especially directed toward
applicants who would not normally qualify for other forms of financial assistance.
Corporations, partnerships, individuals, non-profit and religious organizations, and
governmental entities within Delaware are all eligible to receive grants.
The Fund’s grants have historically targeted projects of a “bricks and mortar” nature.
Under new guidelines, the DPF is also accepting applications for non-capital
projects, including restoration planning projects, architectural/engineering studies, and
contracting professional consultants to prepare National Register or local district
nominations.
If you have any questions after reading the guidelines below, please contact the
Delaware Preservation Fund’s program managers by EMAIL or (302) 831-8097.
Available funding
Most grants typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. The maximum grant is
$10,000. For grant requests more than $5,000, the DPF must be satisfied the proposal
and resource is of major significance; that the resource will be at serious risk if the work
is not carried out; that the likely benefits well exceed the anticipated costs; and/or that
the work is unlikely to take place without the Fund’s assistance. Because funds are
limited, projects are selected for their ability to make a significant difference for the small
investment offered. As a rule, the DPF requires a minimum 50% match from the
applicant. In-kind contributions may be credited towards the match.
Eligibility
Historic resources located in Delaware are eligible for a grant if they are either:
on or determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places
a contributing element to a National Register Historic District, or
determined by a county or local government to be locally significant
Applications for the following project types will be accepted:
Capital projects involving restoration of historic buildings and built elements,
as well as historic objects such as ships and statuary.
43
Page 44
Item 4.
Restoration planning, architectural/engineering studies (maximum grant
$10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Documentation projects:
Preparation of new, individual nominations for listing on the National Register
(maximum grant $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Preparation of nominations for new or amended National Register historic
districts (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Historic district amendments would include boundary expansions and the
addition of resources through a particular period of significance, as well as
documentation of a more robust nature.
Proposals for inclusion within a new or expanded local historic district
(maximum grant of $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Archaeological documentation (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project
cost, whichever is less).
Plaques and signage if they are of an interpretive nature.
Ineligible Proposals:
Certain categories of work are precluded because they fall outside the concept of
preservation, as defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, including
reconstruction of the majority of an historic structure, a new building recreated to look
historic, partial demolition and facade retention only. The moving of historic structures
from their historic location is also precluded by these standards, but there may be
circumstances where allowances may be made.
The following specific items are ineligible for grant funding:
Construction of new buildings or additions
Acquisition of properties
Acquisition of collections
Conservation or display of collections
Lobbying or advocacy activities
Direct or indirect administrative costs
Application requirements
The application must include:
A detailed project description, including a scope of work
A qualified contractor proposal with estimates, broken down as needed
An outline as to how the relevant Secretary of the Interior Standards will be
met
44
Page 45
Item 4.
Good quality photos of the building/resource including adequate photos of
the area requiring attention
Eligibility documentation
For National Register listed historic properties, please provide a copy of the
listing
For locally designated resources, provide a copy of local government
documentation
For resources not listed on the National Register or locally, submit a letter of
support or determination of eligibility letter from a qualified architectural
historian or archaeologist, the State Historic Preservation Office, a local
preservation planner (city, town or county), or the University of Delaware
Center for Historic Architecture and Design, attesting to the eligibility of the
resource.
Assessment criteria
The following criteria are applied in the assessment of applications. Considerations are
not limited to these criteria, and not all criteria need to be met. The Board will weigh
these factors regarding each individual case. All decisions are at its absolute discretion.
Availability of funds
The relative historic significance of the resource
The degree to which the resource is threatened with loss, compromise, or
deterioration
The geographical distribution of applications across the State
The extent of benefit to the surrounding neighborhood or community
The extent of matching funds including the applicant’s own resources.
Preference will always be given to first-time applicants. The DPF will consider any
previous grant(s) awarded to the applicant, what the grant was for, and how long ago it
was awarded.
The Fund strives to disperse grant money evenly throughout the State of Delaware. An
application of otherwise lesser merit may be given preference if it comes from a location
that is underrepresented in applications for that particular year.
A grant may be awarded for work already completed within the previous twelve months
as applicants are encouraged to expedite urgent work, rather than delay important
preventative or remedial work. Photographs must be provided showing both the “before”
and “after” conditions.
Conditions
All grants are subject to conditions, which applicants must agree to prior to accepting
the grant funds.
45
Page 46
Item 4.
Any construction work funded, all or in part with DPF funds, must meet the Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. Copies of the Standards
are available on the National Park Service website.
Grants are issued in the form of reimbursements once work is completed, and after
proof of expenditure is submitted to the DPF, together with photographs of the finished
work and a brief written report. The Fund must be satisfied that the work meets the
Secretary of the Interior’s standards, and all local government requirements.
If awarded a grant from the Delaware Preservation Fund, the applicant agrees to
complete the project within a year of grant notification. Grants allow a twelve-month
period for work to be completed, but may be extended for an additional twelve months if
good cause is shown. A grant will automatically lapse if not extended, and an extended
grant will automatically expire after two years with no further extension possible.
Grant money is not automatically transferable. If the ownership of a property changes,
the new owner must apply to have the grant transferred to their name.
Preservation Delaware, Inc (PDI) and the Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc (DPF)
reserve the right to publicize the names and locations of the grant recipients, as well as
publicize photographs of the properties where work has been funded.
All grant application properties are subject to scheduled visits by employees or Board
members of PDI or DPF.
Applications are due Friday, February 9, 2024. Completed forms with supporting
photos and materials should be emailed HERE.
46
Page 47
Item 4.
Delaware Preservation Fund
Small Grants Program Guidelines
Applications are now open for the 2024 grants round. The closing date for
applications is Friday, February 9, 2024. The completed form, along with supporting
materials, should be emailed HERE.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Delaware Preservation Fund has awarded more
than 300 small grants throughout Delaware. The program is especially directed toward
applicants who would not normally qualify for other forms of financial assistance.
Corporations, partnerships, individuals, non-profit and religious organizations, and
governmental entities within Delaware are all eligible to receive grants.
The Fund’s grants have historically targeted projects of a “bricks and mortar” nature.
Under new guidelines, the DPF is also accepting applications for non-capital
projects, including restoration planning projects, architectural/engineering studies, and
contracting professional consultants to prepare National Register or local district
nominations.
If you have any questions after reading the guidelines below, please contact the
Delaware Preservation Fund’s program managers by EMAIL or (302) 831-8097.
Available funding
Most grants typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. The maximum grant is
$10,000. For grant requests more than $5,000, the DPF must be satisfied the proposal
and resource is of major significance; that the resource will be at serious risk if the work
is not carried out; that the likely benefits well exceed the anticipated costs; and/or that
the work is unlikely to take place without the Fund’s assistance. Because funds are
limited, projects are selected for their ability to make a significant difference for the small
investment offered. As a rule, the DPF requires a minimum 50% match from the
applicant. In-kind contributions may be credited towards the match.
Eligibility
Historic resources located in Delaware are eligible for a grant if they are either:
on or determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places
a contributing element to a National Register Historic District, or
determined by a county or local government to be locally significant
Applications for the following project types will be accepted:
Capital projects involving restoration of historic buildings and built elements,
as well as historic objects such as ships and statuary.
47
Page 48
Item 4.
Restoration planning, architectural/engineering studies (maximum grant
$10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Documentation projects:
Preparation of new, individual nominations for listing on the National Register
(maximum grant $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Preparation of nominations for new or amended National Register historic
districts (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Historic district amendments would include boundary expansions and the
addition of resources through a particular period of significance, as well as
documentation of a more robust nature.
Proposals for inclusion within a new or expanded local historic district
(maximum grant of $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Archaeological documentation (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project
cost, whichever is less).
Plaques and signage if they are of an interpretive nature.
Ineligible Proposals:
Certain categories of work are precluded because they fall outside the concept of
preservation, as defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, including
reconstruction of the majority of an historic structure, a new building recreated to look
historic, partial demolition and facade retention only. The moving of historic structures
from their historic location is also precluded by these standards, but there may be
circumstances where allowances may be made.
The following specific items are ineligible for grant funding:
Construction of new buildings or additions
Acquisition of properties
Acquisition of collections
Conservation or display of collections
Lobbying or advocacy activities
Direct or indirect administrative costs
Application requirements
The application must include:
A detailed project description, including a scope of work
A qualified contractor proposal with estimates, broken down as needed
An outline as to how the relevant Secretary of the Interior Standards will be
met
48
Page 49
Item 4.
Good quality photos of the building/resource including adequate photos of
the area requiring attention
Eligibility documentation
For National Register listed historic properties, please provide a copy of the
listing
For locally designated resources, provide a copy of local government
documentation
For resources not listed on the National Register or locally, submit a letter of
support or determination of eligibility letter from a qualified architectural
historian or archaeologist, the State Historic Preservation Office, a local
preservation planner (city, town or county), or the University of Delaware
Center for Historic Architecture and Design, attesting to the eligibility of the
resource.
Assessment criteria
The following criteria are applied in the assessment of applications. Considerations are
not limited to these criteria, and not all criteria need to be met. The Board will weigh
these factors regarding each individual case. All decisions are at its absolute discretion.
Availability of funds
The relative historic significance of the resource
The degree to which the resource is threatened with loss, compromise, or
deterioration
The geographical distribution of applications across the State
The extent of benefit to the surrounding neighborhood or community
The extent of matching funds including the applicant’s own resources.
Preference will always be given to first-time applicants. The DPF will consider any
previous grant(s) awarded to the applicant, what the grant was for, and how long ago it
was awarded.
The Fund strives to disperse grant money evenly throughout the State of Delaware. An
application of otherwise lesser merit may be given preference if it comes from a location
that is underrepresented in applications for that particular year.
A grant may be awarded for work already completed within the previous twelve months
as applicants are encouraged to expedite urgent work, rather than delay important
preventative or remedial work. Photographs must be provided showing both the “before”
and “after” conditions.
Conditions
All grants are subject to conditions, which applicants must agree to prior to accepting
the grant funds.
49
Page 50
Item 4.
Any construction work funded, all or in part with DPF funds, must meet the Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. Copies of the Standards
are available on the National Park Service website.
Grants are issued in the form of reimbursements once work is completed, and after
proof of expenditure is submitted to the DPF, together with photographs of the finished
work and a brief written report. The Fund must be satisfied that the work meets the
Secretary of the Interior’s standards, and all local government requirements.
If awarded a grant from the Delaware Preservation Fund, the applicant agrees to
complete the project within a year of grant notification. Grants allow a twelve-month
period for work to be completed, but may be extended for an additional twelve months if
good cause is shown. A grant will automatically lapse if not extended, and an extended
grant will automatically expire after two years with no further extension possible.
Grant money is not automatically transferable. If the ownership of a property changes,
the new owner must apply to have the grant transferred to their name.
Preservation Delaware, Inc (PDI) and the Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc (DPF)
reserve the right to publicize the names and locations of the grant recipients, as well as
publicize photographs of the properties where work has been funded.
All grant application properties are subject to scheduled visits by employees or Board
members of PDI or DPF.
Applications are due Friday, February 9, 2024. Completed forms with supporting
photos and materials should be emailed HERE.
50
Page 51
Item 4.
Delaware Preservation Fund
Small Grants Program Guidelines
Applications are now open for the 2024 grants round. The closing date for
applications is Friday, February 9, 2024. The completed form, along with supporting
materials, should be emailed HERE.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Delaware Preservation Fund has awarded more
than 300 small grants throughout Delaware. The program is especially directed toward
applicants who would not normally qualify for other forms of financial assistance.
Corporations, partnerships, individuals, non-profit and religious organizations, and
governmental entities within Delaware are all eligible to receive grants.
The Fund’s grants have historically targeted projects of a “bricks and mortar” nature.
Under new guidelines, the DPF is also accepting applications for non-capital
projects, including restoration planning projects, architectural/engineering studies, and
contracting professional consultants to prepare National Register or local district
nominations.
If you have any questions after reading the guidelines below, please contact the
Delaware Preservation Fund’s program managers by EMAIL or (302) 831-8097.
Available funding
Most grants typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. The maximum grant is
$10,000. For grant requests more than $5,000, the DPF must be satisfied the proposal
and resource is of major significance; that the resource will be at serious risk if the work
is not carried out; that the likely benefits well exceed the anticipated costs; and/or that
the work is unlikely to take place without the Fund’s assistance. Because funds are
limited, projects are selected for their ability to make a significant difference for the small
investment offered. As a rule, the DPF requires a minimum 50% match from the
applicant. In-kind contributions may be credited towards the match.
Eligibility
Historic resources located in Delaware are eligible for a grant if they are either:
on or determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places
a contributing element to a National Register Historic District, or
determined by a county or local government to be locally significant
Applications for the following project types will be accepted:
Capital projects involving restoration of historic buildings and built elements,
as well as historic objects such as ships and statuary.
51
Page 52
Item 4.
Restoration planning, architectural/engineering studies (maximum grant
$10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Documentation projects:
Preparation of new, individual nominations for listing on the National Register
(maximum grant $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Preparation of nominations for new or amended National Register historic
districts (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Historic district amendments would include boundary expansions and the
addition of resources through a particular period of significance, as well as
documentation of a more robust nature.
Proposals for inclusion within a new or expanded local historic district
(maximum grant of $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Archaeological documentation (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project
cost, whichever is less).
Plaques and signage if they are of an interpretive nature.
Ineligible Proposals:
Certain categories of work are precluded because they fall outside the concept of
preservation, as defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, including
reconstruction of the majority of an historic structure, a new building recreated to look
historic, partial demolition and facade retention only. The moving of historic structures
from their historic location is also precluded by these standards, but there may be
circumstances where allowances may be made.
The following specific items are ineligible for grant funding:
Construction of new buildings or additions
Acquisition of properties
Acquisition of collections
Conservation or display of collections
Lobbying or advocacy activities
Direct or indirect administrative costs
Application requirements
The application must include:
A detailed project description, including a scope of work
A qualified contractor proposal with estimates, broken down as needed
An outline as to how the relevant Secretary of the Interior Standards will be
met
52
Page 53
Item 4.
Good quality photos of the building/resource including adequate photos of
the area requiring attention
Eligibility documentation
For National Register listed historic properties, please provide a copy of the
listing
For locally designated resources, provide a copy of local government
documentation
For resources not listed on the National Register or locally, submit a letter of
support or determination of eligibility letter from a qualified architectural
historian or archaeologist, the State Historic Preservation Office, a local
preservation planner (city, town or county), or the University of Delaware
Center for Historic Architecture and Design, attesting to the eligibility of the
resource.
Assessment criteria
The following criteria are applied in the assessment of applications. Considerations are
not limited to these criteria, and not all criteria need to be met. The Board will weigh
these factors regarding each individual case. All decisions are at its absolute discretion.
Availability of funds
The relative historic significance of the resource
The degree to which the resource is threatened with loss, compromise, or
deterioration
The geographical distribution of applications across the State
The extent of benefit to the surrounding neighborhood or community
The extent of matching funds including the applicant’s own resources.
Preference will always be given to first-time applicants. The DPF will consider any
previous grant(s) awarded to the applicant, what the grant was for, and how long ago it
was awarded.
The Fund strives to disperse grant money evenly throughout the State of Delaware. An
application of otherwise lesser merit may be given preference if it comes from a location
that is underrepresented in applications for that particular year.
A grant may be awarded for work already completed within the previous twelve months
as applicants are encouraged to expedite urgent work, rather than delay important
preventative or remedial work. Photographs must be provided showing both the “before”
and “after” conditions.
Conditions
All grants are subject to conditions, which applicants must agree to prior to accepting
the grant funds.
53
Page 54
Item 4.
Any construction work funded, all or in part with DPF funds, must meet the Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. Copies of the Standards
are available on the National Park Service website.
Grants are issued in the form of reimbursements once work is completed, and after
proof of expenditure is submitted to the DPF, together with photographs of the finished
work and a brief written report. The Fund must be satisfied that the work meets the
Secretary of the Interior’s standards, and all local government requirements.
If awarded a grant from the Delaware Preservation Fund, the applicant agrees to
complete the project within a year of grant notification. Grants allow a twelve-month
period for work to be completed, but may be extended for an additional twelve months if
good cause is shown. A grant will automatically lapse if not extended, and an extended
grant will automatically expire after two years with no further extension possible.
Grant money is not automatically transferable. If the ownership of a property changes,
the new owner must apply to have the grant transferred to their name.
Preservation Delaware, Inc (PDI) and the Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc (DPF)
reserve the right to publicize the names and locations of the grant recipients, as well as
publicize photographs of the properties where work has been funded.
All grant application properties are subject to scheduled visits by employees or Board
members of PDI or DPF.
Applications are due Friday, February 9, 2024. Completed forms with supporting
photos and materials should be emailed HERE.
54
Page 55
Item 4.
Delaware Preservation Fund
Small Grants Program Guidelines
Applications are now open for the 2024 grants round. The closing date for
applications is Friday, February 9, 2024. The completed form, along with supporting
materials, should be emailed HERE.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Delaware Preservation Fund has awarded more
than 300 small grants throughout Delaware. The program is especially directed toward
applicants who would not normally qualify for other forms of financial assistance.
Corporations, partnerships, individuals, non-profit and religious organizations, and
governmental entities within Delaware are all eligible to receive grants.
The Fund’s grants have historically targeted projects of a “bricks and mortar” nature.
Under new guidelines, the DPF is also accepting applications for non-capital
projects, including restoration planning projects, architectural/engineering studies, and
contracting professional consultants to prepare National Register or local district
nominations.
If you have any questions after reading the guidelines below, please contact the
Delaware Preservation Fund’s program managers by EMAIL or (302) 831-8097.
Available funding
Most grants typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. The maximum grant is
$10,000. For grant requests more than $5,000, the DPF must be satisfied the proposal
and resource is of major significance; that the resource will be at serious risk if the work
is not carried out; that the likely benefits well exceed the anticipated costs; and/or that
the work is unlikely to take place without the Fund’s assistance. Because funds are
limited, projects are selected for their ability to make a significant difference for the small
investment offered. As a rule, the DPF requires a minimum 50% match from the
applicant. In-kind contributions may be credited towards the match.
Eligibility
Historic resources located in Delaware are eligible for a grant if they are either:
on or determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic
Places
a contributing element to a National Register Historic District, or
determined by a county or local government to be locally significant
Applications for the following project types will be accepted:
Capital projects involving restoration of historic buildings and built elements,
as well as historic objects such as ships and statuary.
55
Page 56
Item 4.
Restoration planning, architectural/engineering studies (maximum grant
$10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Documentation projects:
Preparation of new, individual nominations for listing on the National Register
(maximum grant $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Preparation of nominations for new or amended National Register historic
districts (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Historic district amendments would include boundary expansions and the
addition of resources through a particular period of significance, as well as
documentation of a more robust nature.
Proposals for inclusion within a new or expanded local historic district
(maximum grant of $5,000, or 50% of project cost, whichever is less).
Archaeological documentation (maximum grant $10,000, or 50% of project
cost, whichever is less).
Plaques and signage if they are of an interpretive nature.
Ineligible Proposals:
Certain categories of work are precluded because they fall outside the concept of
preservation, as defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, including
reconstruction of the majority of an historic structure, a new building recreated to look
historic, partial demolition and facade retention only. The moving of historic structures
from their historic location is also precluded by these standards, but there may be
circumstances where allowances may be made.
The following specific items are ineligible for grant funding:
Construction of new buildings or additions
Acquisition of properties
Acquisition of collections
Conservation or display of collections
Lobbying or advocacy activities
Direct or indirect administrative costs
Application requirements
The application must include:
A detailed project description, including a scope of work
A qualified contractor proposal with estimates, broken down as needed
An outline as to how the relevant Secretary of the Interior Standards will be
met
56
Page 57
Item 4.
Good quality photos of the building/resource including adequate photos of
the area requiring attention
Eligibility documentation
For National Register listed historic properties, please provide a copy of the
listing
For locally designated resources, provide a copy of local government
documentation
For resources not listed on the National Register or locally, submit a letter of
support or determination of eligibility letter from a qualified architectural
historian or archaeologist, the State Historic Preservation Office, a local
preservation planner (city, town or county), or the University of Delaware
Center for Historic Architecture and Design, attesting to the eligibility of the
resource.
Assessment criteria
The following criteria are applied in the assessment of applications. Considerations are
not limited to these criteria, and not all criteria need to be met. The Board will weigh
these factors regarding each individual case. All decisions are at its absolute discretion.
Availability of funds
The relative historic significance of the resource
The degree to which the resource is threatened with loss, compromise, or
deterioration
The geographical distribution of applications across the State
The extent of benefit to the surrounding neighborhood or community
The extent of matching funds including the applicant’s own resources.
Preference will always be given to first-time applicants. The DPF will consider any
previous grant(s) awarded to the applicant, what the grant was for, and how long ago it
was awarded.
The Fund strives to disperse grant money evenly throughout the State of Delaware. An
application of otherwise lesser merit may be given preference if it comes from a location
that is underrepresented in applications for that particular year.
A grant may be awarded for work already completed within the previous twelve months
as applicants are encouraged to expedite urgent work, rather than delay important
preventative or remedial work. Photographs must be provided showing both the “before”
and “after” conditions.
Conditions
All grants are subject to conditions, which applicants must agree to prior to accepting
the grant funds.
57
Page 58
Item 4.
Any construction work funded, all or in part with DPF funds, must meet the Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. Copies of the Standards
are available on the National Park Service website.
Grants are issued in the form of reimbursements once work is completed, and after
proof of expenditure is submitted to the DPF, together with photographs of the finished
work and a brief written report. The Fund must be satisfied that the work meets the
Secretary of the Interior’s standards, and all local government requirements.
If awarded a grant from the Delaware Preservation Fund, the applicant agrees to
complete the project within a year of grant notification. Grants allow a twelve-month
period for work to be completed, but may be extended for an additional twelve months if
good cause is shown. A grant will automatically lapse if not extended, and an extended
grant will automatically expire after two years with no further extension possible.
Grant money is not automatically transferable. If the ownership of a property changes,
the new owner must apply to have the grant transferred to their name.
Preservation Delaware, Inc (PDI) and the Delaware Preservation Fund, Inc (DPF)
reserve the right to publicize the names and locations of the grant recipients, as well as
publicize photographs of the properties where work has been funded.
All grant application properties are subject to scheduled visits by employees or Board
members of PDI or DPF.
Applications are due Friday, February 9, 2024. Completed forms with supporting
photos and materials should be emailed HERE.
58
Page 59
Item 5.
City of Dover
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW REPORT
Referral by City Planner to Historic District Commission
Meeting of January 18, 2024
Permit: Fence Permit #23-1868
Location: 146 S. State Street, Dover
Located on the west side of South State Street to the north of (but
not adjacent to) West Loockerman Street
Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-02-58.00-000
File Number: HI-24-01
Present Zoning: C-2 (Central Commercial Zone)
H (Historic District Zone)
Referral of Permit:
The following application Fence Permit #23-1868 for 146 S. State Street is referred by the City
Planner to the Historic District Commission for consultation regarding the issuance of the
Architectural Review Certificate for a Fence project. Applications for certain types of
construction activity within the Historic District Zone (H) are reviewed by the City Planner (or
Staff as designated) for Architectural Review Certification as part of the Building Permit
application review process. Staff is referring the Permit for review under the provisions of
Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.22(A) and (B). See below.
Section 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.
(B) The city planner may refer any permit application for demolition or construction in the
historic district for consultation with commission.
Permit Information:
Fence Permit #23-1868 was filed on December 13, 2023 for a Fence project at 146 S. State
Street in Dover, Delaware. The Project outlined in the Permit submission involves placement of
a six-foot vinyl Fence (Fence # 1) to the rear of the building between the parking lot and the
building spanning from north to south. There is an additional Fence segment (Fence #2) that goes
from the building north to the adjacent property and connects to an existing six-foot vinyl Fence
at 140 S. State Street.
P. O. Box 475 Dover, DE 19903
Community Excellence Through Quality Service 59
Page 60
Item 5.
HI-24-01 Referral of Fence Permit #23-1868 146 S. State Street
Staff Report to the Historic District Commission
Page 2 of 5
It is noted that the six-foot vinyl Fences at 146 S. State Street have already been installed and
was done so without a Building Permit. This work without a Permit is the subject of Code
Enforcement case # 23-3983. The case was opened August 15, 2023. The Fence Permit as noted
was not filed until December 2023.
The project site is located within the local Historic District Zone (H) and subject to the
provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 §21 and referenced sections. This building is also
located within the boundaries of a National Register Historic District, specifically the Victorian
Dover Historic District.
Staff Review of Permit for Architectural Review Certification:
Project activities are reviewed for compliance with the Zoning Ordinance and the Design
Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone as stated in Zoning
Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.25(A).
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.
The current location of the side Fence segment (Fence #2) is in the “public view”; and it is
deemed visible from the public way of the adjacent street. Public view is defined in the Zoning
Ordinance as “that which can be seen readily from a public street, public building or public
property, excluding views from alley rights-of-way.”
A majority of the longer Fence (at the edge of the parking lot) is blocked from view from South
State Street by the mass of the building. The rear alley (South State Street Alley) is not
considered to be a “public view” point.
In reviewing the proposed project for Architectural Review Certification, Staff referenced
various sections of Chapter 3: Maintenance, Repair, Preservation and Restoration of Existing
Historic Buildings of the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic
District Zone which presents the Recommended, Not Recommended, and Inappropriate
approaches to construction of various elements in the Historic District.
This Request should be reviewed for conformity with the design criteria and development
guidelines found in the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District
Zone. Specifically, Chapter 3 page 3-26 includes the discussion of Fences in the Historic District
zone where it states that site Fences and walls “should not exceed 4’0” in height and then
discusses the Recommended, Not Recommended, and Inappropriate practices associated with
Fences and walls as related to materials. Chapter 3 presents the information on the appropriate
Fence materials for use in the Historic District. Wood picket style Fences and cast iron (metal)
fencing are Recommended.
60
2
Page 61
Item 5.
HI-24-01 Referral of Fence Permit #23-1868 146 S. State Street
Staff Report to the Historic District Commission
Page 3 of 5
Staff also looked at the provisions for Fences in the Zoning Ordinance. The Zoning Ordinance
limits the height of Fences to four (4) feet within the front yard setback (Article 5 §1.55) with
other provisions for increases Fence height to 6.5 feet for side yards, rear yards, and the second
front yard on corner lots.
Historic District Commission Action
The Historic District Commission should consider the Fence project and take action in regard to the
Architectural Review Certification for the Fence Permit #23-1868. The Historic District
Commission may add conditions for the Fences (Fence #1 and Fence #2) in order to comply with
the character of the property within the Historic District.
Staff Findings from Review of Building Permit:
Staff findings and recommendations are summarized as follows for the Fence project as
presented in Permit #23-1868 and accompanying documents.
1. Fence Location: The Fence #1 is located in the middle of the property at the rear of the
building. There are 2 pedestrian gates on this portion of Fence which runs north south.
The north side of the property has Fence # 2 that runs parallel to State Street between the
building and the north property line, connecting to a Fence to the north on an adjacent
property. It is noted that there is a decorative wrought iron Fence at the front façade of
the building running adjacent to the street sidewalk. This Fence remains and spans
between 146 and 140 South State Street.
2. Fence Visibility: The side Fence segment (Fence #2) is visible from the South State
Street right of way. If this section of Fence were to be removed, the rear Fence (Fence
#1) portion would then also be visible.
3. Fence Height – 6 ft. along a side property line: The Design Standards and Guidelines say
that generally the height of a Fence should not exceed 4 feet. The 6-foot Fence exceeds
the recommended height of the Design Standards and Guidelines. Staff review of
previous permits did find a Fence Permit (Permit #03-831) in 2003 for a 42” high Fence.
This was to determine if this new Fence replaced a previously existing Fence. There was
no diagram or specifications of material for the Fence in the file. The description as
described is “48 L.F. of fencing (42” high) at curb in parking lot, next to building”. The
2012 Google Street view shows what looks to be a wood picket Fence that matches
description from the 2003 Fence Permit. This earlier wood fence appears to have been
removed as 2019 Google Street view does not show a Fence in the locations that are
present today.
4. Fence Material: The Fences are of white vinyl as a solid panel between posts system. The
use of vinyl products is typically not recommended for use in the Historic District;
however, there are examples that have been approved for Fences with conditions for use
of wood products, materials with a wood grained appearance (non-shiny), or other
composite materials in a neutral color (tan/clay).
61
3
Page 62
Item 5.
HI-24-01 Referral of Fence Permit #23-1868 146 S. State Street
Staff Report to the Historic District Commission
Page 4 of 5
5. Current Condition & Location: The Fences (Fence 1 and Fence 2) applied for in the
Permit exist today. A Permit was applied for after a Code Enforcement Case was opened
8/15/23 for No Valid Permit.
6. Adjacent Fence at 140 South State Street: Planning Staff looked for information on the
adjacent Fences. The only survey on file at the City of Dover offices for either adjacent
property is from 1985 for 140 S. State Street. The survey shows a six-foot Fence inside
the property line for an enclosure for the restaurant. However, the 2019 Google Street
view shows a four-foot Fence approximately on the property line. Current conditions
show renovations to the rear patio area including what appears to be 6-foot vinyl fencing
as the enclosure.
Recommendations:
• Fence #1-Staff finds that Fence #1 location generally has limited visibility from
the public way of South State Street due to the building and other fencing. The 6-
foot height is unfortunately used to create a privacy Fence with limited visibility
between parking lot and the building it serves. Given the location of the Fence, an
allowance for it to remain could be granted.
• Fence #2-Staff finds that this Fence is visible from South State Street and connect
to an adjoining Fence blocking the through view to the alley. Even at this
distance, the actual material is difficult to determine from the street.
Consideration could be given to reduce this Fence to a height of 4-feet. A
recommendation would be to add landscaping (shrub planting) on the South State
Street face of the fence to screen the vinyl material usage (and taller height).
Advisory Comments:
1. The applicant shall be aware that issuance of a Fence Permit is required prior to the
commencement of construction. The Fence Permit Application will be subject to the
conditions of approval established and may be required to be updated, if necessary, to
comply with these conditions established through the Architectural Review Certification
process.
Attachments:
• Letter of Referral Notice to Applicant dated January 8, 2024.
• Building Permit #23-1868 Application Form and Permit submission documents
• Map: Actual locations of Fence #1 and Fence #2.
• Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone, Chapter 3,
page 3-26 to 3-27.
• Pictures taken January 4, 2024.
• Screen shots Google Streetview.
• Code Enforcement Case #23-3983.
62
4
Page 63
Item 5.
HI-24-01 Referral of Fence Permit #23-1868 146 S. State Street
Staff Report to the Historic District Commission
Page 5 of 5
63
5
Page 64
Item 5.
City of Dover
January 9, 2024
State Street 146 Properties LLC Bright Side Roofing
Zach Foust Brian Duerr
33 S. State St
Dover, DE 19901 Via email: Brian30286@yahoo.com
Re: Referral of Fence Permit #23-1868 to Historic District Commission, HI-24-01
Fence at 146 S. State Street, Dover, DE
Dear Mr. Foust and Mr. Duerr,
This letter is to inform you that Fence Permit Application # 23-1868 has been referred to
the City of Dover Historic District Commission for consultation. Fence Permit #23-1868
was filed on December 15, 2023 for a fence project at 146 S. State Street in Dover, Delaware.
The project outlined in the Permit submission involves 6-foot vinyl fence to the rear of the
property spanning from the fence at the northern adjacent property along the parking lot to the
south side adjacent property fence with 2 pedestrian gates. Additionally, there is a 6-foot vinyl
fence segment between the northern adjacent property fence and the building with a pedestrian
gate.
This permit was filed after the fence was constructed; it is the subject of Code Enforcement
Case #23-3983: for work without a permit.
The location of the subject property within the City of Dover’s Historic District zone requires the
review and issuance of an Architectural Review Certificate (ARC) for construction and
demolition activities. Fences are eligible for Staff review of the ARC during the Building Permit
application process. Project activities are reviewed for compliance with the Zoning Ordinance
and the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone as stated
in Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.25(A).
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.
In reviewing the proposed project for Architectural Review Certification, Staff referenced the
Chapter 3: Maintenance, Repair, Preservation and Restoration of Existing Historic Buildings of
the Design Standards and Guidelines which present the Recommended, Not Recommended,
and Inappropriate approaches to activities in the Historic District. The Design Standards and
Guidelines limit the height of fences to four feet and specifies appropriate materials for fencing.
This project involves the placement of a six-foot fence which exceeds the recommended height
in the Historic District. In addition, the fence was constructed of vinyl material. Therefore, I am
referring the Fence Permit application to the Historic District Commission for consultation. See
Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.22 (A) and (B) listed below.
P. O. Box 475 Dover, DE 19903
Community Excellence Through Quality Service 64
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Item 5.
Letter Re: Permit #23-1878 Fence at 146 S. State Street, Dover
January 9, 2024
Page 2 of 2
Section 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
(B) The city planner may refer any permit application for demolition or construction in the
historic district for consultation with commission.
The City of Dover Historic District Commission will review this Permit at their next
meeting scheduled for Thursday, January 18 at 3:30pm. Options for participating in the
Meeting include attending In-Person at the City Hall Conference Room and or attending
the Virtual Meeting presentation using WebEx, an audio and video conferencing system.
A separate meeting invitation to Join the Meeting virtually will be sent by email to the
applicants; where you can clink “Join Meeting” to attend that afternoon. This Permit
Referral has been assigned Application #HI-24-01. You are encouraged to participate in this
meeting to discuss the project. Staff will provide the Historic District Commission with the permit
application materials and other background information for their review and action.
Also attached to this Letter are the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover
Historic District Zone pertaining to Fencing (pages 3-26 and 3-27). If you have questions or wish
to discuss alternative options, please contact the Planning Office at (302)736-7196.
Sincerely,
Department of Planning and Inspections
Dawn Melson-Williams, AICP
Principal Planner
CC: Fence Permit #23-1868
HI-24-01
Code Enforcement Case#23-3983
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Item 5.
Inside fence #1. Taken January 4, 2024.
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Item 5.
From the alley facing east. Taken January 4, 2024.
From the alley. Taken January 4, 2024.
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Item 5.
Inside fence #1 facing north. Taken January 4, 2024.
From South State Street showing the south side of the house at 146 S. State Street. Taken
January 4, 2024.
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Item 5.
From South State Street on the north side of 146 S. State Street looking towards the rear of the
property showing fence #2. Taken January 4, 2024.
From South State Street looking towards the rear of the property between 146 & 140 S. State
Street showing fence #2. Taken January 4, 2024.
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Item 5.
Showing second pedestrian gate on fence #1 from the parking lot. Taken January 4, 2024.
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Item 5.
Google Streetview showing fence matching description from Permit #03-831. April 2012.
Google Streetview showing Oct 2019.
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