Home Remodeling in
Steilacoom, WA

Within the Historic District, new construction and changes to the exterior of a building are reviewed for compliance with the town's historic preservation regulations. Applicants submit an Application for Design Review for exterior modifications or new construction.

Exterior changes is a broad category. It is sensible to expect it to reach things like additions, replacement windows, new siding and decks, so treat any visible exterior work as reviewable until the town tells you otherwise.

The town publishes Historic District Design Standards setting out what the review looks for. Reading them before drawing anything is the most useful single step, because a design that fits them from the start moves through review far faster than one that gets sent back.

The review is not limited to the Historic District. All multi-family houses, public structures and commercial buildings are reviewed as well, wherever they are in Steilacoom.

So if you own a duplex or a small multi-family property, expect design review even when the building sits outside the district boundary.

Start with the Historic District boundary map, which the town publishes. A single-family house outside the district is likely looking at a standard permit. Inside it, plan for design review from day one and allow time for it in the schedule.

Interior work such as a kitchen or bathroom remodel is a different matter, because the historic review is concerned with new construction and the outside of buildings. It is the exterior of the house that the town is protecting.

Questions go to Steilacoom Community Development, where the Historic Preservation Officer runs the design review process.