Can landowners demolish Downtown buildings?

Buildings built in the historic Downtown area before 1945, or buildings that have a landmark designation, require a recommendation from the Historic Preservation Board if they are historic landmark properties and approval from Town Council before they can be demolished.  If the building was built after 1945 and is not eligible for landmark designation, the owner must obtain a demolition permit from the Development Services Department.

When reviewing a demolition request, the Board and Council use the following criteria:

  • Whether the property is currently landmarked and/or would be able to achieve landmark status
  • If the property is void of features of architectural and/or historical significance and/or integrity
  • Whether the effect of demolition would be positive or negative on adjacent properties or the Downtown district
  • If the deterioration of the property has progressed to the point where it’s not economically feasible to rehabilitate the property
  • Whether moving the building been investigated and is demolition a feasible option

Show All Answers

1. Is the ice rink being removed from downtown? (Full question posted in the response.)
2. What are the height restrictions for buildings in Downtown?
3. If the town approves The View, an enormous apartment complex in north downtown, will there be an improvement made to the intersection of Wilcox and Eighth st?
4. Is it true that the block with the B&B cafe has been bought out by developers and has plans to be redeveloped as a high rise? What other high-rises are in the works for downtown?
5. I heard that the Emporium and the Barn are being turned into apartments. Is that true?
6. Can landowners demolish Downtown buildings?